thedailyexpress--2020-07-18--UK Coronavirus: How Britain could be back to normal by Christmas – PM's roadmap

The Prime Minister offered hope to millions of families and friends that they will be able to enjoy the festive season together as he revealed his plan to get the country through the next stage of the coronavirus pandemic .
Under the new guidelines , people may use public transport for journeys immediately , while advice for workers will change from 1 August .
Speaking from Downing Street Mr Johnson said he was `` hoping for the best and planning for the worst '' .
Striking an optimistic tone he promised that further unlocking would take place next month , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from home ” advice , the opening of businesses such as bowling alleys and skating rinks , and scrapping the ban on wedding receptions .
He also promised that “ lightning lockdowns ” would be introduced to stop regional flare-ups of coronavirus , with local councils getting the power to shut down transport networks , limit public gatherings and order certain businesses to close .
Mr Johnson said that there was no need for the sort of “ blanket national measures ” used to control the spread of the virus in spring , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the authorities understand how Covid-19 behaves much better than they did .
The unveiling of the new measures came as Britain announced 114 more coronavirus deaths bringing the overall number of victims to 45,233 .
The PM said the roadmap `` remains conditional '' on continued progress in controlling the virus and preventing a second wave of infections that could overwhelm the NHS .
`` It is my strong and sincere hope that we will be able to review the outstanding restrictions and allow a more significant return to normality from November @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Christmas , '' he said .
The government 's current social distancing guidance requires people to stay at least one metre apart with certain precautions .
However , the PM made clear that this was `` all conditional on our ability to defeat the virus '' .
Devolved administrations in Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland have the power to set their own timings for the easing of restrictions .
The PM insisted public transport could now open up for everyone to get people back to work .
He said : “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clear that anybody can use public transport while encouraging people to consider alternative measures of transport where they 're available.
” Although anyone can now use public transport , the Prime Minister also said the government is still encouraging people to use alternative means of getting around where possible .
Officials are reportedly working on a grading system to highlight the busiest and quietest times to travel , with avoiding public transport between 7am and 9am recommended .
In a move to hunt down and stamp out and coronavirus flare-ups Mr Johnson handed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so they can shut pubs and cafés without going to Government first .
The rules will allow town hall bosses to ban weddings and other gatherings at short notice .
He explained : `` They will be able to close specific premises , shut public outdoor spaces and cancel events .
`` These powers will enable local authorities to act more quickly in response to outbreaks where speed is paramount .
`` Where justified by the evidence , ministers will be able to close whole sectors or types of premises in an area @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people entering or leaving defined areas , reduce the size of gatherings beyond the national defined rules or restrict transport systems serving local areas . ''
Cllr James Jamieson , Chairman of the Local Government Association , said : “ Locally-led responses have proven to be the best way to tackle significant outbreaks , which this framework rightly emphasises .
Councils know their local communities best and know how to address each unique outbreak .
It is good that this framework also acknowledges the tireless efforts of councils already to try and contain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with socially-distanced audiences in theatres , music and performance venues will also be allowed from next month .
However , soft play areas and nightclubs will remain closed beyond that date , although they `` will be kept under review . ''
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said he will look at the details of the government 's plan to get people back to work but stressed `` this ca n't be done on a wing and a prayer and requires a credible plan and national leadership '' .
Boris Johnson has laid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ restrictions first introduced at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic , with a view to restoring normality by Christmas .
It covers everything from rules on going back to work and school reopenings to new measures at beauty salons and crowds returning to sporting matches .
CASINOS , bowling alleys and ice rinks have been given the green light to reopen from August 1 .
Each facility must operate on strict guidelines which includes social distancing and proper hygiene to stop the spread of the virus .
Visitors must use hand sanitizer upon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enter the building one at a time .
Table capacity limits in Casinos will be enforced and face coverings will be provided to guests who request one .
Slot machines will be cleaned after every use and ATMs will be sanitised every hour at a minimum .
CROWDS could return to sports stadiums in the UK from October subject to successful pilot events starting later this month .
From 1 August indoor performances to a live audience will resume , subject to the success of pilots .
There will also be trials for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , with a view to a wider reopening in the autumn .
It raises the possibility that only the first month of the 2020-21 football season will be played out behind closed doors , with supporters allowed back in the autumn .
The pilot events will include a County Championship cricket match between Surrey and Middlesex on July 26 , the Glorious Goodwood race meet , and the World Snooker Championship at the Crucible in Sheffield from July 31 .
BORIS Johnson called on bosses to get Britons back into their workplaces to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which has been ravaged by the pandemic .
The PM said guidance about going to work would change from August 1 .
But his back to work call-to-arms put the onus on employers to make the call .
“ Instead of government telling people to work from home , we are going to give employers more discretion and ask them to make decisions about how their staff can work safely , ” he said .
That could mean continuing to work from home , he said .
Or it could mean making work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ Whatever employers decide , they should consult closely with their employees and only ask people to return to their place of work if it is safe , ” he said .
AFTER months of advising people to avoid using public transport for all journeys deemed “ non-essential ” , the government has now changed its advice .
As of 17 July , anyone can use public transport in England .
The Prime Minister said the government is still encouraging people to use alternative means of getting around where possible .
Officials @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to highlight the busiest and quietest times to travel , with avoiding public transport between 7am and 9am recommended .
The advice applies to all public transport in England : buses , trains and the tube .
Since 15 June , it has been mandatory for all passengers to wear a face covering over their nose and mouth while travelling by public transport in England .
If you fail to do so , you ’ re breaking the law and could be fined ( up to £100 ) .
Only very young children @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have breathing difficulties and respiratory problems that may be exacerbated by wearing a face covering are exempt from the regulations .
Passengers are also encouraged to carry a hand sanitiser and wash their hands before and after their journey .
COUNCILS in England will get new powers from today ( Sat ) to force owners to shut pubs , cafes , shops and restaurants in areas hit by coronavirus outbreaks .
Local authorities will also be able to close public places , like parks , and cancel events .
Boris Johnson said greater @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` to act more quickly in response to outbreaks where speed is paramount '' , in what he called `` lightning lockdowns '' .
County councils and unitary authorities will no longer have to get permission from a magistrate to close contaminated premises not deemed to be part of `` essential infrastructure '' , in order to prevent the spread of coronavirus .
Government guidance says this `` significantly '' increases councils ' powers and urges them to use them `` with discretion '' .
There will be a right to appeal for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reviewed weekly .
ALL children - across nurseries , primary and secondary schools , and colleges - will be back at school full-time from September .
The Government has released guidelines for the new measures to be introduced , including : classes arranged into `` bubbles '' , strict behaviour regimes , banning choirs and assemblies and even overhauling the curriculum .
The curriculum might be curtailed to focus solely on maths and English for a year , to allow pupils to “ catch up ” and fill any gaps in their `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also be adapted .
Instead of facing each other , all pupils will face the front of the classroom .
Windows will be kept open where possible , and any unnecessary furniture removed to optimise space .
Assemblies and communal activities , such as prayer , will be banned .
Lunch and break times will be staggered , as will start times for pupils .
Parents and grandparents will be told not to congregate by the school gates .
FROM next month , wedding receptions for up to 30 guests can resume .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ distancing rules .
Guests will have to stand or sit at least one metre apart , as well as take other safety precautions such as wearing a face mask .
Wedding ceremonies in England should be kept `` as short as reasonably possible '' and limited to just what is legally binding , according to the new guidelines .
Food and drinks are discouraged as part of the event .
The venue should have the floor marked with tape or paint to help people maintain social distance .
INDOOR gyms , swimming pools @ @ @ @ @ @ @ July .
Outdoor pools are already allowed to open .
Guidance for the reopening of sports facilities has been published , including on cleaning regimes , social distancing and protection for staff .
Measures include limiting the number of people using a facility at one time , reducing class sizes and spacing out equipment .
Face coverings will not be mandatory in gyms .
Small numbers of supporters will be able to watch outdoor sports , provided social distancing measures and group size rules are followed .
Each sport will have to submit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how it will operate safely , with sports where a single ball is used having to show how they can reduce the risk of it transmitting the virus .
Close contact services like threading , facial waxing and brow tinting will finally be available to customers thanks to the new government guidelines .
While guidelines are yet to be set out , it is likely that beauticians will have to wear face shields while performing the treatment .
Customers are likely to be urged to wear a mask where their treatment allows , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which have already been allowed to reopen .
NIGHTCLUBS and soft-play areas in England will be forced to remain shut despite lockdown measures easing .
This also means dance halls and discotheques .
All indoor play areas must stay closed too including one that is part of a restaurant that is open .
But cafes , bars , pubs , and restaurants ca n't reopen if they are a part of the premises of a business or venue that must remain closed .
The only exception is if they are in self-contained units @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

Boris Johnson: I hope for 'normality’ in November
The Prime Minister offered hope to millions of families and friends that they will be able to enjoy the festive season together as he revealed his plan to get the country through the next stage of the coronavirus pandemic. Under the new guidelines, people may use public transport for journeys immediately, while advice for workers will change from 1 August.
Speaking from Downing Street Mr Johnson said he was "hoping for the best and planning for the worst".
Striking an optimistic tone he promised that further unlocking would take place next month, including the end of the “work from home” advice, the opening of businesses such as bowling alleys and skating rinks, and scrapping the ban on wedding receptions.
He also promised that “lightning lockdowns” would be introduced to stop regional flare-ups of coronavirus, with local councils getting the power to shut down transport networks, limit public gatherings and order certain businesses to close.
Mr Johnson said that there was no need for the sort of “blanket national measures” used to control the spread of the virus in spring, because the number of cases has fallen and the authorities understand how Covid-19 behaves much better than they did. The unveiling of the new measures came as Britain announced 114 more coronavirus deaths bringing the overall number of victims to 45,233.
Boris Johnson's roadmap leads us out of coronavirus lockdown
Under the new guidelines, people may use public transport, whether or not their trip is essential
The PM said the roadmap "remains conditional" on continued progress in controlling the virus and preventing a second wave of infections that could overwhelm the NHS. "It is my strong and sincere hope that we will be able to review the outstanding restrictions and allow a more significant return to normality from November at the earliest - possibly in time for Christmas," he said. The government's current social distancing guidance requires people to stay at least one metre apart with certain precautions. However, the PM made clear that this was "all conditional on our ability to defeat the virus". Devolved administrations in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have the power to set their own timings for the easing of restrictions. The PM insisted public transport could now open up for everyone to get people back to work. He said: “In England from today we are making clear that anybody can use public transport while encouraging people to consider alternative measures of transport where they're available.”
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Britain announced 114 more coronavirus deaths, bringing the total to 45,233
Although anyone can now use public transport, the Prime Minister also said the government is still encouraging people to use alternative means of getting around where possible.
Officials are reportedly working on a grading system to highlight the busiest and quietest times to travel, with avoiding public transport between 7am and 9am recommended. In a move to hunt down and stamp out and coronavirus flare-ups Mr Johnson handed councils powers for "lightning lockdowns" so they can shut pubs and cafés without going to Government first.
The rules will allow town hall bosses to ban weddings and other gatherings at short notice.
He explained: "They will be able to close specific premises, shut public outdoor spaces and cancel events.
"These powers will enable local authorities to act more quickly in response to outbreaks where speed is paramount.
"Where justified by the evidence, ministers will be able to close whole sectors or types of premises in an area, introduce local stay-at-home orders, prevent people entering or leaving defined areas, reduce the size of gatherings beyond the national defined rules or restrict transport systems serving local areas." Cllr James Jamieson, Chairman of the Local Government Association, said: “Locally-led responses have proven to be the best way to tackle significant outbreaks, which this framework rightly emphasises. Councils know their local communities best and know how to address each unique outbreak. It is good that this framework also acknowledges the tireless efforts of councils already to try and contain and prevent local outbreaks.” Indoor performances with socially-distanced audiences in theatres, music and performance venues will also be allowed from next month. However, soft play areas and nightclubs will remain closed beyond that date, although they "will be kept under review." Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said he will look at the details of the government's plan to get people back to work but stressed "this can't be done on a wing and a prayer and requires a credible plan and national leadership".
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said he will look at the details of the government's plan to get people back to work
Boris Johnson has laid out his most ambitious roadmap to easing restrictions first introduced at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, with a view to restoring normality by Christmas. It covers everything from rules on going back to work and school reopenings to new measures at beauty salons and crowds returning to sporting matches. Casinos/Leisure CASINOS, bowling alleys and ice rinks have been given the green light to reopen from August 1. Each facility must operate on strict guidelines which includes social distancing and proper hygiene to stop the spread of the virus. Visitors must use hand sanitizer upon entering while they could be asked to enter the building one at a time. Table capacity limits in Casinos will be enforced and face coverings will be provided to guests who request one. Slot machines will be cleaned after every use and ATMs will be sanitised every hour at a minimum.
Casinos, bowling alleys and ice rinks have been given the green light to reopen from August 1
Sports CROWDS could return to sports stadiums in the UK from October subject to successful pilot events starting later this month. From 1 August indoor performances to a live audience will resume, subject to the success of pilots. There will also be trials for larger gatherings in venues like sports stadia, with a view to a wider reopening in the autumn. It raises the possibility that only the first month of the 2020-21 football season will be played out behind closed doors, with supporters allowed back in the autumn. The pilot events will include a County Championship cricket match between Surrey and Middlesex on July 26, the Glorious Goodwood race meet, and the World Snooker Championship at the Crucible in Sheffield from July 31. Work BORIS Johnson called on bosses to get Britons back into their workplaces to help boost Britain’s ailing economy which has been ravaged by the pandemic. The PM said guidance about going to work would change from August 1. But his back to work call-to-arms put the onus on employers to make the call.
Crowds could return to sports stadiums in the UK from October subject to successful pilot events starting later this month
“Instead of government telling people to work from home, we are going to give employers more discretion and ask them to make decisions about how their staff can work safely,” he said. That could mean continuing to work from home, he said. Or it could mean making work places safe by following Covid secure guidelines. “Whatever employers decide, they should consult closely with their employees and only ask people to return to their place of work if it is safe,” he said. Transport AFTER months of advising people to avoid using public transport for all journeys deemed “non-essential”, the government has now changed its advice. As of 17 July, anyone can use public transport in England. The Prime Minister said the government is still encouraging people to use alternative means of getting around where possible. Officials are reportedly working on a grading system to highlight the busiest and quietest times to travel, with avoiding public transport between 7am and 9am recommended.
Trending
The advice applies to all public transport in England: buses, trains and the tube. Since 15 June, it has been mandatory for all passengers to wear a face covering over their nose and mouth while travelling by public transport in England. If you fail to do so, you’re breaking the law and could be fined (up to £100). Only very young children, disabled people, or those who have breathing difficulties and respiratory problems that may be exacerbated by wearing a face covering are exempt from the regulations. Passengers are also encouraged to carry a hand sanitiser and wash their hands before and after their journey. Local Councils COUNCILS in England will get new powers from today (Sat) to force owners to shut pubs, cafes, shops and restaurants in areas hit by coronavirus outbreaks. Local authorities will also be able to close public places, like parks, and cancel events. Boris Johnson said greater powers for local authorities would enable them "to act more quickly in response to outbreaks where speed is paramount", in what he called "lightning lockdowns".
All children will be back at school full-time from September
County councils and unitary authorities will no longer have to get permission from a magistrate to close contaminated premises not deemed to be part of "essential infrastructure", in order to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Government guidance says this "significantly" increases councils' powers and urges them to use them "with discretion". There will be a right to appeal for businesses affected and local lockdowns must be reviewed weekly. Schools ALL children - across nurseries, primary and secondary schools, and colleges - will be back at school full-time from September. The Government has released guidelines for the new measures to be introduced, including: classes arranged into "bubbles", strict behaviour regimes, banning choirs and assemblies and even overhauling the curriculum. The curriculum might be curtailed to focus solely on maths and English for a year, to allow pupils to “catch up”and fill any gaps in their "core knowledge". Classroom layouts will also be adapted. Instead of facing each other, all pupils will face the front of the classroom. Windows will be kept open where possible, and any unnecessary furniture removed to optimise space. Assemblies and communal activities, such as prayer, will be banned. Lunch and break times will be staggered, as will start times for pupils. Parents and grandparents will be told not to congregate by the school gates.
Swimming pools and sports facilities can reopen from 25 July
Weddings FROM next month, wedding receptions for up to 30 guests can resume. This is provided they comply with social distancing rules. Guests will have to stand or sit at least one metre apart, as well as take other safety precautions such as wearing a face mask. Wedding ceremonies in England should be kept "as short as reasonably possible" and limited to just what is legally binding, according to the new guidelines. Food and drinks are discouraged as part of the event. The venue should have the floor marked with tape or paint to help people maintain social distance. Gyms, swimming pools INDOOR gyms, swimming pools and sports facilities can reopen from 25 July. Outdoor pools are already allowed to open. Guidance for the reopening of sports facilities has been published, including on cleaning regimes, social distancing and protection for staff. Measures include limiting the number of people using a facility at one time, reducing class sizes and spacing out equipment. Face coverings will not be mandatory in gyms. Small numbers of supporters will be able to watch outdoor sports, provided social distancing measures and group size rules are followed. Each sport will have to submit an action plan to the government of how it will operate safely, with sports where a single ball is used having to show how they can reduce the risk of it transmitting the virus.
Beauticians can reopen fully from August 1


thedailyexpress--2020-07-19--EU leaders stun Brussels in Brexit revolt after members refuse to fund no deal crisis plan

Brussels has demanded EU countries fund a €5 billion Brexit reserve fund to protect countries most at risk of economic turmoil after the UK leaves the bloc .
However , according to RTE , Sweden has voiced fierce opposition to the plans at the European Union summit in Brussels this weekend .
Europe Editor Tony Connelly said that EU member-states are furious at the additional funding demand because `` Brexit has nothing to do with the pandemic '' .
Connelly explained : `` In order to placate countries like Ireland , Charles Michel introduced this idea of a Brexit reserve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Europe was going to refit its economy for a post-pandemic world , you have to take into asymmetric shocks like Brexit that will affect how economies will emerge from the pandemic .
`` There is a figure of 5bn in there .
But , I understand that not everyone is happy with this idea .
`` The Swedes in particular have been muttering about why Brexit should be part of this recovery fund . ''
JUST IN : Angela Merkel 's panic-stricken warning on EU ’ s post-Brexit future He continued : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to do with the impact of pandemic but it is on the table and it 's for the European Commission to work out how to allocate the Brexit money around the EU .
`` Would it be allocated by the fall in trade flows from the UK or a drop in GDP ? ''
He added the €5 billion fund for countries and sectors hit by Brexit to a draft plan for the European Union ’ s next budget and recovery package .
At the time , Mr Michel said : `` Brexit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that is why we propose a Brexit reserve of five billion euros `` Brexit with or without an agreement on future ties will have consequences in Europe for the member states and that 's why I think it 's necessary to ask the commission to prepare for a needs assessment by November 2021 . ''
Belgium and Ireland in particular will benefit from the Brexit crisis fund , citing that they would be disproportionately affected by Brexit as close trading partners of the UK .
China threat : Taiwan aims US missiles at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ian Blackford ridiculed in Commons backlash [ VIDEO ] Lockdown POLL : Are you happy to return to the office ?
VOTE [ POLL ]

Brexit: EU reluctant over inclusion in recovery fund says expert
Brussels has demanded EU countries fund a €5 billion Brexit reserve fund to protect countries most at risk of economic turmoil after the UK leaves the bloc. However, according to RTE, Sweden has voiced fierce opposition to the plans at the European Union summit in Brussels this weekend. Europe Editor Tony Connelly said that EU member-states are furious at the additional funding demand because "Brexit has nothing to do with the pandemic".
Trending
Connelly explained: "In order to placate countries like Ireland, Charles Michel introduced this idea of a Brexit reserve fund. "The idea was if Europe was going to refit its economy for a post-pandemic world, you have to take into asymmetric shocks like Brexit that will affect how economies will emerge from the pandemic. "There is a figure of 5bn in there. But, I understand that not everyone is happy with this idea. "The Swedes in particular have been muttering about why Brexit should be part of this recovery fund." JUST IN: Angela Merkel's panic-stricken warning on EU’s post-Brexit future
Brussels has demanded EU countries fund a €5 billion Brexit reserve fund
Europe Editor Tony Connelly said that EU member-states are furious at the additional funding demand because "Brexit has nothing to do with the pandemic"
He continued: "In their view, Brexit has nothing to do with the impact of pandemic but it is on the table and it's for the European Commission to work out how to allocate the Brexit money around the EU. "Would it be allocated by the fall in trade flows from the UK or a drop in GDP?" European Council President Charles Michel announced the Brexit reserve fund proposal in June. He added the €5 billion fund for countries and sectors hit by Brexit to a draft plan for the European Union’s next budget and recovery package.
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Belgium and Ireland in particular will benefit from the Brexit crisis fund
Brexit: UK ‘fell into EU’s trap’ with Theresa May says Hewertson
At the time, Mr Michel said: "Brexit is challenging for all of us and that is why we propose a Brexit reserve of five billion euros "Brexit with or without an agreement on future ties will have consequences in Europe for the member states and that's why I think it's necessary to ask the commission to prepare for a needs assessment by November 2021." Belgium and Ireland in particular will benefit from the Brexit crisis fund, citing that they would be disproportionately affected by Brexit as close trading partners of the UK. DON'T MISS: China threat: Taiwan aims US missiles at Beijing [VIDEO]
SNP humiliated: Ian Blackford ridiculed in Commons backlash [VIDEO]
Lockdown POLL: Are you happy to return to the office? VOTE [POLL]
The summit in Brussels is the the first face-to-face talks of the 27 European Union heads since lockdowns took hold in March


thedailyexpress--2020-07-19--Brexit LIVE: Boris to announce shock plan to REWARD Remainers including Philip Hammond

Former chancellors Mr Hammond and Mr Clarke and ex-culture minister Mr Vaizey had the Tory whip withdrawn after attempting to block Mr Johnson ’ s efforts to reach a Brexit agreement with the EU .
The list also includes a string of Brexit supporters including former England cricketer Sir Ian Botham , according to The Times .
And it was reported that there will be peerages for ex—Labour MPs Frank Field and Gisela Stuart who both supported Brexit in the 2016 referendum .
Former Labour MPs Ian Austin and John Woodcock , who backed Remain but supported Mr Johnson 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to support Jeremy Corbyn , are also said to be on the list .
02:10am update : Cornwall calls for £700m to cover loss of EU funding Cornwall Council has asked the Government for another £700 million in funding to replace lost EU funding over the next decade .
In 1999 Cornwall was granted Objective One status by Brussels entitling it to extra funding due to economic deprivation .
Explaining the demand for extra funding Kate Kennally , council chief executive , said : `` The amount is the same as what Cornwall @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the equivalent of what Cornwall would have received from the EU and as the level of funds to catch up with other parts of the country as part of the levelling up agenda .
`` We are calling for it as a single pot to prevent us having to continually bid for separate pots .
We want to have the funding in a single pot that will be managed by organisations here in Cornwall . ''
Liam Fox , the former Secretary of State for International Trade , has insisted Brexit wo @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first British head of the World Trade Organisation ( WTO ) .
Mr Fox , a Brexit backing Scottish Tory MP , is one of eight candidates bidding to replace Brazilian Roberto Azevedo as WTO chief .
He claimed not every country `` sees every issue through the Brexit prism '' .
Britain has been a WTO member since its founder but has only sat independently since it left the EU earlier this year .
10.48pm update : Nicola Sturgeon savaged for sacrificing Brexit benefits in plot for independent Scotland Nicola Sturgeon may @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in exchange for her dream of independence , a former MEP has claimed .
Brexiteer and former Brexit Party MEP , Ben Habib , attacked Ms Sturgeon for her appraoch to the Scottish independence cause .
During an interview with Express.co.uk , Mr Habib claimed Nicola Sturgeon would have to meet three crucial requirements before the EU would consider Scotland 's membership .
He argued that the First Minister would be willing to sacrifice access to Scottish fishing waters and willing to pay massive sums into the EU .
Mr Habib said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU would have if they were to entertain any application from Scotland .
`` The first would be that they would require Scotland to be a net contributor to the EU .
`` I think the Scots might find that unpalatable . ''
9.51pm update : Brexit farce : How David Beckham claimed 'Man Utd won more trophies because of EU ' David Beckham risked the wrath of Leave voters during the Brexit debate as he suggested Manchester United were more successful because Britain was in the EU , unearthed reports reveal .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ as he suggested Britain ’ s EU membership contributed to his sporting success .
For the full story click here .
A stand-off between EU leaders at a summit in Brussels on Saturday threatened to derail plans for a massive stimulus fund to breathe life into their coronavirus-hammered economies .
Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte issued a warning in a video on Facebook as the 27 European Union leaders neared the end of a second day of talks .
He said : `` We are in an impasse now .
`` It is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` There are many issues that remain unresolved . ''
With the pandemic dealing Europe its worst economic shock since World War II , leaders gathered on Friday to haggle over a proposed €750 billion recovery fund and a 2021-27 EU budget of more than €1 trillion .
Pro-Brexit think-thank the Bruges Group has congratulated Brexiteers Gisela Stuart and Frank Field on their peerages .
The Bruges Group tweeted : `` Gisela Stuart and Frank Field are two well-deserving recipients of peerages .
`` In particular , Gisela ’ s dedication to Brexit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when it took her from the Labour backbenches to campaigning in last year ’ s GE for Boris .
6.50pm update : EU superstate : All members should unite and form ‘ one economic nation ’ says expert EU states should go further than the single market and merge together to create a Single Economic Territory , an expert has said .
Fabian Zuleeg , chief executive of the European Policy Centre said that COVID-19 triggered “ unprecedented ” government interventions across the EU .
Mr Zuleeg stressed that because of this , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
For the full story click here .
5.38pm update : 'Enough 's enough ! '
- Ian Botham on the EU Sir Ian Botham looks set to be given a peerage in recognition of his support for Brexit - and archive reports reveal how the England cricket legend hit out at Remainers for failing to accept the result of the 2016 referendum .
Sir Ian publicly supported the Brexit campaign and appeared alongside Mr Johnson before the referendum four years ago .
Vowing to back Leave “ with a straight bat ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” when probed about the EU .
He appeared at a County Durham event with Mr Johnson and said : `` I have been lucky enough to grow up in a wonderful country , a country that has always been able to look after itself . ''
For the full story click here .
4.54pm update : Six in 10 firms have not made any no-deal preparations British firms are now less prepared for a no-deal Brexit than they were this time last year , a new report has said .
The warning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Government thinktank .
It cites official data suggesting that 61 percent of businesses have made no preparations at all for December 31 - when the Brexit transition period comes to a close .
3.44pm update : US ambassador says EU criticism of Poland 'overblown ' The US ambassador to Poland said the European Union 's criticism of Poland 's adherence to democracy is `` overblown '' , as Warsaw faces cuts to EU budget funds over its judiciary reforms .
Since coming to power in 2015 , Poland 's ruling Law and Justice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the EU over its overhaul of its judiciary system , with Brussels accusing Poland of violating EU laws .
As its relationship with the EU has faltered , PiS has focused on building strong ties with the United States , especially since President Donald Trump came to power in 2016 .
US ambassador to Poland Georgette Mosbacher said : `` If you 're asking me ... do I think that a lot of the attacks on Poland about democratic values is overblown , my answer is yes , I do . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ what many in western Europe see as creeping authoritarianism in the eastern wing of the bloc , especially Poland , Hungary and Romania .
3.18pm update : Cornwall calls for £700m in funding to soften blow of Brexit Cornwall , which voted for Brexit , has called on the Conservative Government to pump £700 million into its local economy to fill the gap left by the European Union 's funding post-Brexit .
Cornwall Council is petitioning the Government for the money which would cover the loss the popular tourist region is set to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the impact of Brexit .
The council 's chief executive Kate Kennally said : `` The amount is the same as what Cornwall Council has been calling for in terms of the equivalent of what Cornwall would have received from the EU and as the level of funds to catch up with other parts of the country as part of the levelling up agenda .
`` We are calling for it as a single pot to prevent us having to continually bid for separate pots .
`` We want to have the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be managed by organisations here in Cornwall . ''
Laura O'Callaghan takes over the blog from Katie Harris .
Boris Johnson is on track for an early trade victory after Norway moved to sign an ambitious and free post-Brexit deal by the end of this year .
Norway , not part of the EU and reliant on Britain as its single largest trading partner , said it is keen to strike an “ ambitious and comprehensive ” free trade agreement by the end of the transition period on December 31 .
Oslo is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ least as much access to the UK market as EU companies .
Trade and Industry Minister Iselin Nybø said : “ We want to negotiate a comprehensive free trade agreement with the British , in which current trade is continued as much as possible .
“ This is about goods and services that cross our borders every year worth billions of krone .
“ Unfortunately , the agreement will not be able to replace the European Economic Area ( EEA ) agreement , and business will have to prepare to face new trade @ @ @ @ @ @ @ market.
” 2.30pm update : Do you agree with Boris giving honours to Remainers to heal Tory divide ?
- Poll Boris Johnson is set to give three Remainers peerages in a bid to heal divisions in the Conservative Party - but do you agree with the Prime Minister handing out honours to Tories who tried to block Brexit ?
Express.co.uk is asking readers if you agree with the PM rewarding Tory Remainers with peerages to heal Tory divisions .
Former chancellors Philip Hammond , Ken Clarke and ex-culture minister Ed Vaizey are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ despite their attempts to frustrate Brexit .
Click here to cast your vote in our poll .
1.40pm update : SNP MP furious Brexiteers to be honoured - but Bercow snubbed SNP MP Pete Wishart flew off the handle over reports that Boris Johnson plans to award peerages to `` Brexit loyalists '' despite still not offering one to former Commons Speaker John Bercow .
Referring to former England cricketer Sir Ian Botham , Mr Wishart told Sky News : `` This is just the most absurd and ridiculous political institution anywhere in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be having a whole raft of Brexiteers appointed by the Prime Minister to have a part in our legislature .
`` These people can now make laws , make amendments and initiate legislation .
What 's his qualification ?
He 's a cricketer who supported Brexit .
It 's absolutely absurd . ''
He continued : `` Let 's look at two candidates for the House of Lords : Ian Botham , Brexiteer and cricketer , and John Bercow , former Speaker of the House of Commons with something like 25 years @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your listeners : who is more qualified to have a role in deciding the laws of this country ?
Who is more qualified ?
`` But it 's not up to anybody to decide that , it 's should be up to an electorate .
It 's actually up to the PM now .
`` He will appoint his donors , his cronies , his friends .
Those people that he owes favours to .
It has to stop , enough is enough . ''
12.45pm update : Goodbye Project Fear : Carney @ @ @ @ @ @ @ returns to Canada Former Bank of England Governor Mark Carney - regarded by many Brexiteers as the embodiment of Project Fear - has quit Britain and returned to his native Canada after seven years - with the luxury north London home in which he and his family have been living on the market for an eye-watering £5.5million .
Mr Carney , who holds Canadian , British and Irish citizenship , had been renting the property for £3,500 a week .
Wife Diana had previously raised the subject of expensive London homes on Twitter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ daughters subsequently moved into a five-bedroom property in West Hampstead , before relocating to an eight-bedroom house in South Hampstead five years ago .
Mr Carney was lured from his job at the Bank of Canada in 2013 for an annual salary of £624,000 , along with a housing allowance of £250,000 a year .
Former Brexit Party MEP Rupert Lowe has warned Boris Johnson has “ got this so wrong ” following reports former chancellor Philip Hammond is in line for a peerage .
He tweeted : “ Giving Philip Hammond a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The establishment looks after their own !
The man spent years frustrating Brexit and almost succeeded .
Boris has got this so wrong .
“ Hammond was a failure .
In my view , failures should not be rewarded with peerages.
” 10.45am update : Fishing chief issues urgent warning to Barnier as he attacks EU 's arrogance in trade talks A fishing chief has warned of the staggering arrogance of members of the European Commission , saying by the time they realise how important sovereignty is to Britons it may be `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ executive officer of Shetland Fishermen 's Association , said the EU has time and again `` failed to appreciate what matters to the UK '' when it comes to voters ' reasons for wanting out of the bloc and he warned Boris Johnson against any sort of `` sellout '' for fishermen .
As fishing continues to be one of the main sticking points in talks , Mr Collins said Michel Barnier should wake up to the fact that regaining rights over British waters is central to the Brexit cause .
10am update @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no deal last year , expert claims Boris Johnson should have followed through with his threat to leave the EU with a no-deal Brexit last OCtober , an expert has claimed .
Peter MacSwiney , chairman of Agency Sector Management , said : “ In all honesty , we would ’ ve been better off if we had taken a no deal Brexit last October .
By now , we would ’ ve have sorted all the problems .
“ The Northern Ireland Protocol would not be in place .
We 'd probably @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the issues .
“ There are going to be problems and there were problems then .
But now we ’ d be nine months further down the line and things would ’ ve settled down .
“ I think a lot of businesses will find themselves somewhere they ’ re not prepared to be .
They won ’ t know how to get out of it.
” EU leaders failed to make progress in negotiations on a post-coronavirus stimulus plan after meeting for their first face-to-face summit in five months .
Speaking ahead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ursula von der Leyen said : `` The stakes could n't be higher .
The whole world is watching us . ''
The meeting between the 27 EU leaders is due to continue today .
Boris Johnson ’ s chief negotiator hopes to overcome `` significant differences '' with the European Union next week when Brexit talks restart in London .
David Frost is understood to be eyeing his first breakthrough in the future relationship negotiations after holding talks with his EU counterpart Michel Barnier in Brussels .
The pair agreed to put @ @ @ @ @ @ @ security pact with the EU as a potential landing zone for an agreement emerged .
The two sides will hold four separate sessions on “ law enforcement and judicial cooperation ” as the Capital hosts its first ever round of negotiations with Brussels .
As part of the four-day talks , UK and EU officials will also discuss the bloc ’ s demands for regulatory level-playing and access to Britain ’ s fishing grounds .
7.30am update : Next round of post-Brexit talks in London The latest round of post-Brexit trade talks between @ @ @ @ @ @ @ place in London next week .
Boris Johnson has insisted he will not allow the discussions to drag on into the autumn .
If the two sides are unable to strike an agreement by the end of the transition period on December 31 2020 it will mean Britain leaving the single market and the customs union without any agreement on future access .

Von der Leyen says 'stakes couldn't be higher' at EU summit
The Prime Minister is set to announce 30 new peers later this month to mark his first year in Downing Street. The list is said to include arch-Remainers Philip Hammond, Ken Clarke and Ed Vaizey in a bid to heal divisions in the Conservative Party. THIS BLOG IS NOW CLOSED. Click HERE for your latest Brexit updates
Former chancellors Mr Hammond and Mr Clarke and ex-culture minister Mr Vaizey had the Tory whip withdrawn after attempting to block Mr Johnson’s efforts to reach a Brexit agreement with the EU. The list also includes a string of Brexit supporters including former England cricketer Sir Ian Botham, according to The Times. And it was reported that there will be peerages for ex—Labour MPs Frank Field and Gisela Stuart who both supported Brexit in the 2016 referendum. Former Labour MPs Ian Austin and John Woodcock, who backed Remain but supported Mr Johnson's Brexit deal and urged Labour voters not to support Jeremy Corbyn, are also said to be on the list. FOLLOW BELOW FOR LIVE BREXIT UPDATES:
Boris Johnson is set to reward three Remainers with life peerages, according to reports
Sunday, July 19 9.41am update: THIS BLOG IS NOW CLOSED. Click HERE for your latest Brexit updates
02:10am update: Cornwall calls for £700m to cover loss of EU funding Cornwall Council has asked the Government for another £700 million in funding to replace lost EU funding over the next decade. In 1999 Cornwall was granted Objective One status by Brussels entitling it to extra funding due to economic deprivation. Explaining the demand for extra funding Kate Kennally, council chief executive, said: "The amount is the same as what Cornwall Council has been calling for in terms of the equivalent of what Cornwall would have received from the EU and as the level of funds to catch up with other parts of the country as part of the levelling up agenda. "We are calling for it as a single pot to prevent us having to continually bid for separate pots. We want to have the funding in a single pot that will be managed by organisations here in Cornwall." 00:15am update: Liam Fox says Brexit won't derail his WTO bid Liam Fox, the former Secretary of State for International Trade, has insisted Brexit won't stop his campaign to become the first British head of the World Trade Organisation (WTO). Mr Fox, a Brexit backing Scottish Tory MP, is one of eight candidates bidding to replace Brazilian Roberto Azevedo as WTO chief. He claimed not every country "sees every issue through the Brexit prism". Britain has been a WTO member since its founder but has only sat independently since it left the EU earlier this year. James Bickerton takes over live reporting from Laura O'Callaghan
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Saturday, July 18
10.48pm update: Nicola Sturgeon savaged for sacrificing Brexit benefits in plot for independent Scotland Nicola Sturgeon may be willing to trade Scottish Brexit benefits in exchange for her dream of independence, a former MEP has claimed. Brexiteer and former Brexit Party MEP, Ben Habib, attacked Ms Sturgeon for her appraoch to the Scottish independence cause. During an interview with Express.co.uk, Mr Habib claimed Nicola Sturgeon would have to meet three crucial requirements before the EU would consider Scotland's membership. He argued that the First Minister would be willing to sacrifice access to Scottish fishing waters and willing to pay massive sums into the EU. Mr Habib said: "There are three instant requirements the EU would have if they were to entertain any application from Scotland. "The first would be that they would require Scotland to be a net contributor to the EU. "I think the Scots might find that unpalatable." 9.51pm update: Brexit farce: How David Beckham claimed 'Man Utd won more trophies because of EU' David Beckham risked the wrath of Leave voters during the Brexit debate as he suggested Manchester United were more successful because Britain was in the EU, unearthed reports reveal. The former England captain risked a backlash as he suggested Britain’s EU membership contributed to his sporting success. For the full story click here.
Boris Johnson is set to reward Brexiteers with peerages
8.40pm update: EU nations deadlocked at tense coronavirus recovery summit A stand-off between EU leaders at a summit in Brussels on Saturday threatened to derail plans for a massive stimulus fund to breathe life into their coronavirus-hammered economies. Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte issued a warning in a video on Facebook as the 27 European Union leaders neared the end of a second day of talks. He said: "We are in an impasse now. "It is more complex than what was expected. "There are many issues that remain unresolved.'' With the pandemic dealing Europe its worst economic shock since World War II, leaders gathered on Friday to haggle over a proposed €750 billion recovery fund and a 2021-27 EU budget of more than €1 trillion. 7.27pm update: Brexiteers hailed as 'well-deserving' peerage recipients Pro-Brexit think-thank the Bruges Group has congratulated Brexiteers Gisela Stuart and Frank Field on their peerages. The Bruges Group tweeted: "Gisela Stuart and Frank Field are two well-deserving recipients of peerages. "In particular, Gisela’s dedication to Brexit and democracy has been absolute - even when it took her from the Labour backbenches to campaigning in last year’s GE for Boris. "Congratulations both." 6.50pm update: EU superstate: All members should unite and form ‘one economic nation’ says expert EU states should go further than the single market and merge together to create a Single Economic Territory, an expert has said. Fabian Zuleeg, chief executive of the European Policy Centre said that COVID-19 triggered “unprecedented” government interventions across the EU. Mr Zuleeg stressed that because of this, it was making the Single Market vulnerable. For the full story click here.
Sir Ian Botham has earned a peerage for his Brexit campaigning
5.38pm update: 'Enough's enough!' - Ian Botham on the EU Sir Ian Botham looks set to be given a peerage in recognition of his support for Brexit - and archive reports reveal how the England cricket legend hit out at Remainers for failing to accept the result of the 2016 referendum. Sir Ian publicly supported the Brexit campaign and appeared alongside Mr Johnson before the referendum four years ago. Vowing to back Leave “with a straight bat” he claimed “enough’s enough” when probed about the EU. He appeared at a County Durham event with Mr Johnson and said: "I have been lucky enough to grow up in a wonderful country, a country that has always been able to look after itself." For the full story click here. 4.54pm update: Six in 10 firms have not made any no-deal preparations British firms are now less prepared for a no-deal Brexit than they were this time last year, a new report has said. The warning for ministers come from the Institute for Government thinktank. It cites official data suggesting that 61 percent of businesses have made no preparations at all for December 31 - when the Brexit transition period comes to a close. 3.44pm update: US ambassador says EU criticism of Poland 'overblown' The US ambassador to Poland said the European Union's criticism of Poland's adherence to democracy is "overblown", as Warsaw faces cuts to EU budget funds over its judiciary reforms. Since coming to power in 2015, Poland's ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party has faced criticism from the EU over its overhaul of its judiciary system, with Brussels accusing Poland of violating EU laws. As its relationship with the EU has faltered, PiS has focused on building strong ties with the United States, especially since President Donald Trump came to power in 2016. US ambassador to Poland Georgette Mosbacher said: "If you're asking me...do I think that a lot of the attacks on Poland about democratic values is overblown, my answer is yes, I do." The EU is struggling to respond to what many in western Europe see as creeping authoritarianism in the eastern wing of the bloc, especially Poland, Hungary and Romania.
Cornwall Council is calling on the Government to pump cash into the region to soften the Brexit blow
3.18pm update: Cornwall calls for £700m in funding to soften blow of Brexit Cornwall, which voted for Brexit, has called on the Conservative Government to pump £700 million into its local economy to fill the gap left by the European Union's funding post-Brexit. Cornwall Council is petitioning the Government for the money which would cover the loss the popular tourist region is set to suffer over the next 10 years due to the impact of Brexit. The council's chief executive Kate Kennally said: "The amount is the same as what Cornwall Council has been calling for in terms of the equivalent of what Cornwall would have received from the EU and as the level of funds to catch up with other parts of the country as part of the levelling up agenda. "We are calling for it as a single pot to prevent us having to continually bid for separate pots. "We want to have the funding in a single pot that will be managed by organisations here in Cornwall." Laura O'Callaghan takes over the blog from Katie Harris. 2.50pm update: Norway rushes to sign post-Brexit trade deal with UK Boris Johnson is on track for an early trade victory after Norway moved to sign an ambitious and free post-Brexit deal by the end of this year. Norway, not part of the EU and reliant on Britain as its single largest trading partner, said it is keen to strike an “ambitious and comprehensive” free trade agreement by the end of the transition period on December 31. Oslo is keen for Norwegian companies to have at least as much access to the UK market as EU companies. Trade and Industry Minister Iselin Nybø said: “We want to negotiate a comprehensive free trade agreement with the British, in which current trade is continued as much as possible. “This is about goods and services that cross our borders every year worth billions of krone. “Unfortunately, the agreement will not be able to replace the European Economic Area (EEA) agreement, and business will have to prepare to face new trade barriers when the UK leaves the single market.” 2.30pm update: Do you agree with Boris giving honours to Remainers to heal Tory divide? - Poll Boris Johnson is set to give three Remainers peerages in a bid to heal divisions in the Conservative Party - but do you agree with the Prime Minister handing out honours to Tories who tried to block Brexit? Express.co.uk is asking readers if you agree with the PM rewarding Tory Remainers with peerages to heal Tory divisions. Former chancellors Philip Hammond, Ken Clarke and ex-culture minister Ed Vaizey are said to be in line for peerages despite their attempts to frustrate Brexit. Click here to cast your vote in our poll.
1.40pm update: SNP MP furious Brexiteers to be honoured - but Bercow snubbed SNP MP Pete Wishart flew off the handle over reports that Boris Johnson plans to award peerages to "Brexit loyalists" despite still not offering one to former Commons Speaker John Bercow. Referring to former England cricketer Sir Ian Botham, Mr Wishart told Sky News: "This is just the most absurd and ridiculous political institution anywhere in the world. "We're going to be having a whole raft of Brexiteers appointed by the Prime Minister to have a part in our legislature. "These people can now make laws, make amendments and initiate legislation. What's his qualification? He's a cricketer who supported Brexit. It's absolutely absurd." He continued: "Let's look at two candidates for the House of Lords: Ian Botham, Brexiteer and cricketer, and John Bercow, former Speaker of the House of Commons with something like 25 years political experience. "I'd ask your listeners: who is more qualified to have a role in deciding the laws of this country? Who is more qualified? "But it's not up to anybody to decide that, it's should be up to an electorate. It's actually up to the PM now. "He will appoint his donors, his cronies, his friends. Those people that he owes favours to. It has to stop, enough is enough." 12.45pm update: Goodbye Project Fear: Carney's £5.5m home for sale as he returns to Canada Former Bank of England Governor Mark Carney - regarded by many Brexiteers as the embodiment of Project Fear - has quit Britain and returned to his native Canada after seven years - with the luxury north London home in which he and his family have been living on the market for an eye-watering £5.5million. Mr Carney, who holds Canadian, British and Irish citizenship, had been renting the property for £3,500 a week. Wife Diana had previously raised the subject of expensive London homes on Twitter - but the couple and their five daughters subsequently moved into a five-bedroom property in West Hampstead, before relocating to an eight-bedroom house in South Hampstead five years ago. Mr Carney was lured from his job at the Bank of Canada in 2013 for an annual salary of £624,000, along with a housing allowance of £250,000 a year.
Remainers Ken Clarke (left) and Philip Hammond (right) are set to receive peerages, according to reports
12pm update: Ex-MEP fumes over Hammond peerage reports Former Brexit Party MEP Rupert Lowe has warned Boris Johnson has “got this so wrong” following reports former chancellor Philip Hammond is in line for a peerage. He tweeted: “Giving Philip Hammond a peerage is an utter disgrace. “The establishment looks after their own! The man spent years frustrating Brexit and almost succeeded. Boris has got this so wrong. “Hammond was a failure. In my view, failures should not be rewarded with peerages.” 10.45am update: Fishing chief issues urgent warning to Barnier as he attacks EU's arrogance in trade talks A fishing chief has warned of the staggering arrogance of members of the European Commission, saying by the time they realise how important sovereignty is to Britons it may be "too late". Simon Collins, executive officer of Shetland Fishermen's Association, said the EU has time and again "failed to appreciate what matters to the UK" when it comes to voters' reasons for wanting out of the bloc and he warned Boris Johnson against any sort of "sellout" for fishermen. As fishing continues to be one of the main sticking points in talks, Mr Collins said Michel Barnier should wake up to the fact that regaining rights over British waters is central to the Brexit cause.
Boris Johnson’s chief negotiator hopes to overcome "significant differences" with the European Union next week when Brexit talks restart in London
EU 'flaws' have been exposed by COVID-19 claims Hewertson
10am update: Boris should’ve gambled on no deal last year, expert claims Boris Johnson should have followed through with his threat to leave the EU with a no-deal Brexit last OCtober, an expert has claimed. Peter MacSwiney, chairman of Agency Sector Management, said: “In all honesty, we would’ve been better off if we had taken a no deal Brexit last October. By now, we would’ve have sorted all the problems. “The Northern Ireland Protocol would not be in place. We'd probably be most of the way to resolving the issues. “There are going to be problems and there were problems then. But now we’d be nine months further down the line and things would’ve settled down. “I think a lot of businesses will find themselves somewhere they’re not prepared to be. They won’t know how to get out of it.” 9am update: EU leaders deadlocked over coronavirus recovery plan EU leaders failed to make progress in negotiations on a post-coronavirus stimulus plan after meeting for their first face-to-face summit in five months. Speaking ahead of the summit, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said: "The stakes couldn't be higher. The whole world is watching us." The meeting between the 27 EU leaders is due to continue today.
Brexit timeline
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thedailyexpress--2020-07-18--Brexit poll: Do you agree with Boris giving honours to Remainers to heal Tory divide? VOTE

Express.co.uk is asking readers whether you agree with Mr Johnson rewarding Remainers with peerages to heal Tory divisions .
Cast your vote in our poll and let us know what you think in the comments .
Former chancellors Philip Hammond , Ken Clarke and ex-culture minister Ed Vaizey are thought to be in line for peerages despite their attempts to frustrate Brexit .
The three former MPs had the Tory whip withdrawn after seeking to block the Prime Minister ’ s efforts to reach an agreement with Brussels .
Mr Johnson kicked 21 MPs out of the Conservative Party last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prevent a no-deal Brexit .
But Mr Hammond , Mr Clarke and Mr Vaizey are all set to receive peerages now , The Times reports .
Mr Johnson will mark his first year in Downing Street with life peerages , according to the newspaper .
In addition to Mr Hammond , Mr Clarke and Mr Vaizey , the list of 30 new peers is said to include a string of Brexiteers including former England cricketer Sir Ian Botham .
Sir Ian is one of England 's greatest cricketers with 5,200 test runs and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brexit campaign and appeared alongside the Prime Minister before the referendum .
Ex-Labour MPs Frank Field and Gisela Stuart , who supported Brexit in 2016 , are reportedly on the list .
There are also said to be peerages for former Labour MPs Ian Austin and John Woodcock who backed Remain but who supported Mr Johnson 's Brexit deal .
Reacting to reports Mr Hammond is in line for a peerage , ex-Brexit Party MEP Rupert Lowe fumed on Twitter : “ Giving Philip Hammond a peerage is an utter disgrace .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The man spent years frustrating Brexit and almost succeeded .
DO N'T MISS SNP MP throws tantrum as he 's left furious Brexiteers to be honoured [ VIDEO ] 'Bold and decisive Britain rattles EU second time around ' [ COMMENT ] Boris Johnson 's unforgettable first year at Number 10 [ INSIGHT ] “ Boris has got this so wrong .
Hammond was a failure .
In my view , failures should not be rewarded with peerages.
” Another Twitter user suggested : “ So wrong on all levels .
Nigel Farage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a knighthood !
” A third wrote : “ Philip Hammond and Kenneth Clarke are remainers I 'm horrified they have got peerages unbelievable whoever next ?
?
” But another said : “ I ’ m not a fan of Hammond but he was an MP for over 20 years and a Cabinet Minister for a decade .

UK is ‘loosening ties’ with EU trade partners says Hammond
Express.co.uk is asking readers whether you agree with Mr Johnson rewarding Remainers with peerages to heal Tory divisions. Cast your vote in our poll and let us know what you think in the comments.
Former chancellors Philip Hammond, Ken Clarke and ex-culture minister Ed Vaizey are thought to be in line for peerages despite their attempts to frustrate Brexit. The three former MPs had the Tory whip withdrawn after seeking to block the Prime Minister’s efforts to reach an agreement with Brussels. Mr Johnson kicked 21 MPs out of the Conservative Party last September after they rebelled against him to prevent a no-deal Brexit. But Mr Hammond, Mr Clarke and Mr Vaizey are all set to receive peerages now, The Times reports. This poll is now closed please click on this LINK for results.
Express.co.uk is asking readers if you agree with the PM rewarding Tory Remainers with peerages
Former chancellors Philip Hammond (right), Ken Clarke (left) and ex-culture minister Ed Vaizey are thought to be in line for peerages despite their attempts to frustrate Brexit
Mr Johnson will mark his first year in Downing Street with life peerages, according to the newspaper. In addition to Mr Hammond, Mr Clarke and Mr Vaizey, the list of 30 new peers is said to include a string of Brexiteers including former England cricketer Sir Ian Botham. Sir Ian is one of England's greatest cricketers with 5,200 test runs and 383 wickets. He publicly backed the Brexit campaign and appeared alongside the Prime Minister before the referendum. READ MORE: Goodbye Project Fear: Carney's £5.5m home for sale
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Mr Johnson will mark his first year in Downing Street with life peerages, according to reports
Ex-Labour MPs Frank Field and Gisela Stuart, who supported Brexit in 2016, are reportedly on the list. There are also said to be peerages for former Labour MPs Ian Austin and John Woodcock who backed Remain but who supported Mr Johnson's Brexit deal. Reacting to reports Mr Hammond is in line for a peerage, ex-Brexit Party MEP Rupert Lowe fumed on Twitter: “Giving Philip Hammond a peerage is an utter disgrace. “The establishment looks after their own! The man spent years frustrating Brexit and almost succeeded. DON'T MISS
SNP MP throws tantrum as he's left furious Brexiteers to be honoured [VIDEO]
'Bold and decisive Britain rattles EU second time around' [COMMENT]
Boris Johnson's unforgettable first year at Number 10 [INSIGHT]
“Boris has got this so wrong. Hammond was a failure. In my view, failures should not be rewarded with peerages.” Another Twitter user suggested: “So wrong on all levels. Nigel Farage is the one that is so deserving of a knighthood!” A third wrote: “Philip Hammond and Kenneth Clarke are remainers I'm horrified they have got peerages unbelievable whoever next??” But another said: “I’m not a fan of Hammond but he was an MP for over 20 years and a Cabinet Minister for a decade.
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-07-18--Ian Botham peerage: What would ex-cricketer do in the House of Lords?

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Ian Botham may @ @ @ @ @ House of Lords according to The Times , which today revealed those likely to take @ @ @ @ @ The newspaper reported he would enter the House of Lords due to his support of @ @ @ @ @ Boris Johnson marks his first year in No 10 .
Botham , 64 , had @ @ @ @ @ cricketer , leaving many wondering what he would do on entry to the upper chamber @ @ @ @ @ Ian Botham do in the House of Lords ?
While The Times has reported Mr @ @ @ @ @ the house , the ex-cricketer declined to say whether he would do so .
Speaking @ @ @ @ @ said his respect of protocol meant he “ can not say anything at this stage @ @ @ @ @ “ You will know the protocol as well as I do .
”

Boris Johnson uses cricket metaphor to describe Brexit
Ian Botham may take a seat in the House of Lords according to The Times, which today revealed those likely to take a peerage this year. The newspaper reported he would enter the House of Lords due to his support of the Brexit cause, as Boris Johnson marks his first year in No 10. Botham, 64, had a storied career as a cricketer, leaving many wondering what he would do on entry to the upper chamber of Parliament.
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What would Ian Botham do in the House of Lords? While The Times has reported Mr Botham's eventual entry into the house, the ex-cricketer declined to say whether he would do so. Speaking to The Guardian, he said his respect of protocol meant he “cannot say anything at this stage”. He added: “You will know the protocol as well as I do.” READ MORE: EU panic as UK dismisses Brussels' demands threatening sovereignty
Ian Botham peerage: What would ex-cricketer do in the House of Lords?
Ian Botham peerage: Boris Johnson may be awarding Ian Botham a peerage for his services to Brexit
READ MORE Brexit victory: Norway rushes to sign post-Brexit trade deal with UK “And that is that I obviously cannot say anything at this stage. That’s the way it works.” If Mr Botham did choose to take up a life peerage, he would enter into Parliament's second chamber, occupied primarily by life peers. Among them are prominent former and current politicians, and some leading businessmen and women. Although they occupy Parliament with the lower House of Commons, they don't serve the same role.
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Ian Botham peerage: The House of Lords exists for a range of reasons, and compliments the lower house
Parliament's website states the chamber is "independent from, and complements the work of, the elected House of Commons". The site goes on to state: "The Lords shares the task of making and shaping laws and checking and challenging the work of the government." The house serves three primary roles, the first of which is making laws in tandem with MPs in the Commons. MPs draw up future policies and laws by presenting and debating them in the lower chamber, after which they arrive in the Lords for consideration. DON'T MISS
Brexit poll: Do you agree with Boris giving honours to Remainers? VOTE - POLL
EU members revolt against paying Brussels' no-deal crisis fund - INSIGHT
Brexit LIVE: Boris to announce shock plan to REWARD Remainers - LIVE BLOG
Ian Botham peerage: Life peers are made up of both politicians and businessmen
READ MORE Calls for Wales to have a Presidential style First Minister Members of the upper house can then examine legislation in-depth before it becomes an act of Parliament. If they choose, they can make recommendations and send back a bill to the House of Commons. In effect, this allows the House of Lords to stall legislation before the Queen grants royal assent. Much like the lower house, the House of Lords may also form select committees, which assess existing public policy.


thedailyexpress--2020-07-18--Brussels crisis: EU leader threatens to LEAVE summit early in fury as budget talks stall

Luxembourg Prime Minister Xavier Bettel told CNBC that he `` does n't need to spend time in Brussels '' if Hungary and Poland refuse to accept the rule of law demands on the table at the EU summit .
Huge sums of the EU budget could be withheld form countries that `` fail to live up to democratic standards '' according to a proposal targeting both Hungary and Poland .
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban threatened to veto the entire deal over the mechanism designed to freeze funds for states undercutting the rule of law .
The Luxembourg leader said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their veto power against the deal due to the rule of law proposal , he will leave the summit early .
Speaking to CNBC , Mr Bettel said : `` We have countries who think we should n't speak about the rule of law .
`` I see what is happening about the rule of law or the positions in recent months on minority rights .
`` We must not forget that the EU is not just an economic or finance market , or market of goods , it is also of values @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the brink : Brussels warned to brace for new clashes He continued : `` This is the backbone of this EU .
`` If we can consider that we ca n't speak about values , or that we do n't need to respect values , I do n't need to spend my time in Brussels . ''
The mechanism is up for discussion at the EU summit this weekend , which has been billed as decisive in shaping the EU 's future .
Talks at the summit have already stalled after Dutch Prime @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 13 hours of talks on access to the European coronavirus recovery fund .
Earlier this week , Hungary , backed by its nationalist ally Poland , warned it would veto the whole package over the plan to freeze out countries flouting democratic principles .
Ahead of the summit , the Parliament in Budapest even adopted a resolution this week banning the government from signing up to any rule of law conditions in Brussels .
László Kövér , speaker of the Hungarian national assembly , said : `` In a vague , undefined procedure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of money , not to European values , but to the political demands of the EU 's globalist , anti-immigration , anti-national , anti-traditional and increasingly destructive political elite . ''
China threat : Taiwan aims US missiles at Beijing [ VIDEO ] Meghan Markle prepares to issue 'controversial criticism ' [ VIDEO ] Lockdown POLL : Are you happy to return to the office ?
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EU Summit: Xavier Bettel hits out on minority rights
Luxembourg Prime Minister Xavier Bettel told CNBC that he "doesn't need to spend time in Brussels" if Hungary and Poland refuse to accept the rule of law demands on the table at the EU summit. Huge sums of the EU budget could be withheld form countries that "fail to live up to democratic standards" according to a proposal targeting both Hungary and Poland. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban threatened to veto the entire deal over the mechanism designed to freeze funds for states undercutting the rule of law.
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The Luxembourg leader said that if Poland and Hungary actually use their veto power against the deal due to the rule of law proposal, he will leave the summit early. Speaking to CNBC, Mr Bettel said: "We have countries who think we shouldn't speak about the rule of law. "I see what is happening about the rule of law or the positions in recent months on minority rights. "We must not forget that the EU is not just an economic or finance market, or market of goods, it is also of values." JUST IN: EU on the brink: Brussels warned to brace for new clashes
Luxembourg Prime Minister Xavier Bettel has threatened to leave the summit
Hungary, backed by its nationalist ally Poland, has responded by threatening to veto the whole package
He continued: "This is the backbone of this EU. "If we can consider that we can't speak about values, or that we don't need to respect values, I don't need to spend my time in Brussels." The mechanism is up for discussion at the EU summit this weekend, which has been billed as decisive in shaping the EU's future. Talks at the summit have already stalled after Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte refused to budge after 13 hours of talks on access to the European coronavirus recovery fund.
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Huge sums of the EU budget could be withheld form countries that "fail to live up to democratic standards"
EU: Mark Rutte calls for ‘strong Europe in an unstable world’
Earlier this week, Hungary, backed by its nationalist ally Poland, warned it would veto the whole package over the plan to freeze out countries flouting democratic principles. Ahead of the summit, the Parliament in Budapest even adopted a resolution this week banning the government from signing up to any rule of law conditions in Brussels. László Kövér, speaker of the Hungarian national assembly, said: "In a vague, undefined procedure, they want to link the disbursement of money, not to European values, but to the political demands of the EU's globalist, anti-immigration, anti-national, anti-traditional and increasingly destructive political elite." DON'T MISS: China threat: Taiwan aims US missiles at Beijing [VIDEO]
Meghan Markle prepares to issue 'controversial criticism' [VIDEO]
Lockdown POLL: Are you happy to return to the office? VOTE [POLL]
The EU's Justice Commissioner is optimistic a deal on the rule of law package will be reached


thedailyexpress--2020-07-19--'BIASED BBC’ is systemically pro-EU and has FAILED Britain, Ofcom told

Broadcasting monitoring group News-watch has prepared the complaint in a week where BBC ’ s director of editorial policy David Jordan admitted BBC journalists have “ overstepped the mark ” on Twitter .
He told the House of Lords digital and communications committee that this meant “ We have had issues , for example , about tracking the rise of Eurosceptism .
Across the BBC , did we do that adequately ?
No , we didn't.
” Former BBC news producer David Keighley , who now heads up News-watch , has made a series of historic complaints over the BBC @ @ @ @ @ @ @ voices .
The submission has been accompanied with past studies which showed that since 1999 pro-EU voices have consistently had more prominence than Eurosceptic ones .
The anger over the issue has boosted calls among Conservatives MPs for the BBC licence to be decriminalised and has recently led to the emergence of the Defund the BBC campaign .
Submission has claimed that the BBC ’ s bias comes through “ considerable bias by omission , with central issues ignored or under-reported , and EU news afforded low priority and downplayed ” along with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Eurosceptic guests voicing their opinions.
” It claims that “ the case for withdrawal from the EU was heavily ignored or presented very narrowly , often through the prism of divisions within the Conservative Party , or through focusing primarily on perceived problems within the withdrawal camp .
“ The argument for leaving the EU , when linked to immigration issues , has been routinely projected as xenophobic , racist and ‘ extreme ’ .
” It went on : “ The BBC so-called Reality Check unit was not impartial on this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vehicle for expressing remain or anti-withdrawal opinion .
“ The core of the Complaint supported by recent case-law is that the BBC has wrongly interpreted its obligation of ensuring ‘ due impartiality ’ and as a result has breached its long-standing Charter obligation ( which goes back to at least the Television Act 1954 ) .
“ Rather the BBC is obliged to proceed by identifying the main strands of opinion within the public discourse and give each a fair opportunity to be heard so as to provide ‘ a level playing field @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those views and opinions are expressed , heard , answered and debated ’ .
”

BBC statement on 'due impartiality' slammed by expert
Broadcasting monitoring group News-watch has prepared the complaint in a week where BBC’s director of editorial policy David Jordan admitted BBC journalists have “overstepped the mark” on Twitter. He told the House of Lords digital and communications committee that this meant “We have had issues, for example, about tracking the rise of Eurosceptism. Across the BBC, did we do that adequately? No, we didn't.”
Former BBC news producer David Keighley, who now heads up News-watch, has made a series of historic complaints over the BBC’s bias in favour of pro-EU voices. The submission has been accompanied with past studies which showed that since 1999 pro-EU voices have consistently had more prominence than Eurosceptic ones. The anger over the issue has boosted calls among Conservatives MPs for the BBC licence to be decriminalised and has recently led to the emergence of the Defund the BBC campaign. Submission has claimed that the BBC’s bias comes through “considerable bias by omission, with central issues ignored or under-reported, and EU news afforded low priority and downplayed” along with “systematic and long-term under-representation of anti-EU and Eurosceptic guests voicing their opinions.”
Ofcom told 'biased BBC' is systemically pro-EU
Former BBC news producer David Keighley has made a series of historic complaints over the BBC’s bias in favour of pro-EU voices
It claims that “the case for withdrawal from the EU was heavily ignored or presented very narrowly, often through the prism of divisions within the Conservative Party, or through focusing primarily on perceived problems within the withdrawal camp. “The argument for leaving the EU, when linked to immigration issues, has been routinely projected as xenophobic, racist and ‘extreme’.” It went on: “The BBC so-called Reality Check unit was not impartial on this issue and in many ways became a vehicle for expressing remain or anti-withdrawal opinion. “The core of the Complaint supported by recent case-law is that the BBC has wrongly interpreted its obligation of ensuring ‘due impartiality’ and as a result has breached its long-standing Charter obligation ( which goes back to at least the Television Act 1954). “Rather the BBC is obliged to proceed by identifying the main strands of opinion within the public discourse and give each a fair opportunity to be heard so as to provide ‘a level playing field for competing views and opinions so that those views and opinions are expressed, heard, answered and debated’.”
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The anger over the issue has boosted calls among Conservatives MPs for the BBC licence to be decriminalised


thedailyexpress--2020-07-19--Brexit sabotage warning: Remainers may use Russia report to 'undermine' EU exit

The Sunday Express has learnt that businessman Arron Banks , the founder of Leave.EU , has issued a dramatic legal challenge to the publication of the report by the Intelligence and Security Committee .
His lawyers have demanded that if attempts are made to rake over previous unfounded allegations against Mr Banks then publication should be delayed to give him a chance to respond .
The long-awaited report was drawn up by the committee under the chairmanship of Remain supporting former MP Dominic Grieve .
It follows a series of false accusations against Mr Banks and other prominent Leave supporters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ legal letter to the committee 's new chairman Julian Lewis comes ahead of the expected publication of the report on Tuesday .
In it , Mr Banks 's lawyer Kingsley Napley points out that there is an ongoing defamation case over the previous publication of many of the accusations .
The letter said : `` Mr Banks has not received any invitation to give evidence and/or to respond to any allegations which may be advanced against him in the Russia Report .
`` Please provide us with immediate notification of any statements made @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Banks .
`` Given the subject matter of the Russia Report and the matters which are currently live in litigation in the courts , it would obviously be necessary , fair and just for him to have advance notice if any statements were to be made about him and that he was given a proper opportunity to deal with them prior to publication `` Not least when it is understood journalists have been given an opportunity to cooperate . ''
It is understood that certain tweets this week referring to the publication @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's legal representatives to believe he may be mentioned within it .
A source close to the committee has suggested the legal letter may have an impact on delaying the report 's publication .
Brexiteer Conservative MP Andrew Bridgen said that he was concerned the Intelligence and Security Committee report will be another attempt to `` sabotage '' Brexit .
He said : `` I hope that the ISC report will not be used as yet another attempt to try to discredit the referendum vote for Brexit or to smear Arron Banks again @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Remainers can not accept defeat and have repeatedly used any means possible to attempt to undermine and discredit the result .
`` Yet whenever the British people have been asked to vote in a referendum or election in the last four years they have consistently and increasingly overwhelmingly backed the Leave side . ''
The row over using allegations of Russian influence as part of a `` witch hunt '' against Brexiteers has already seen two Parliamentary inquiries open into whether the Electoral Commission is `` fit for purpose '' .
This week @ @ @ @ @ @ @ associate Andy Wigmore sent a 25-page submission to the Speaker 's Committee inquiry into the Electoral Commission .
It detailed how they were allegedly pursued on the basis of `` hearsay and speculative press reports '' as well as political pressure from pro-Remain MPs .
Writing for the Sunday Express today , Mr Banks specifically linked the Electoral Commission 's inquiries into false accusations to the ISC report .
He said : `` The background to the report is clear .
Russian interference in Brexit has become a mythical mantra for hardcore Remainers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the result in any way they could .
`` We are living in an age where political opponents are not prepared to accept defeat at the ballot box and use other methods .
`` The report is the last in a series of attacks intended to undermine not only Brexit but the Conservative Government . ''

Russia 'involved in trying to interfere' in 2019 election says Raab
The Sunday Express has learnt that businessman Arron Banks, the founder of Leave.EU, has issued a dramatic legal challenge to the publication of the report by the Intelligence and Security Committee. His lawyers have demanded that if attempts are made to rake over previous unfounded allegations against Mr Banks then publication should be delayed to give him a chance to respond. ARRON BANKS: DON'T LET REMAINERS EXPLOIT RUSSIA REPORT
The long-awaited report was drawn up by the committee under the chairmanship of Remain supporting former MP Dominic Grieve. It follows a series of false accusations against Mr Banks and other prominent Leave supporters that they were Russian agents. The legal letter to the committee's new chairman Julian Lewis comes ahead of the expected publication of the report on Tuesday. In it, Mr Banks's lawyer Kingsley Napley points out that there is an ongoing defamation case over the previous publication of many of the accusations. The letter said: "Mr Banks has not received any invitation to give evidence and/or to respond to any allegations which may be advanced against him in the Russia Report. "Please provide us with immediate notification of any statements made within the Russia Report which refer to Mr Banks.
Legal threat as MPs warn Russia report mustn’t be used to undermine Brexit
Arron Banks, the founder of Leave.EU, has issued a legal challenge to the publication of the report
"Given the subject matter of the Russia Report and the matters which are currently live in litigation in the courts, it would obviously be necessary, fair and just for him to have advance notice if any statements were to be made about him and that he was given a proper opportunity to deal with them prior to publication "Not least when it is understood journalists have been given an opportunity to cooperate." It is understood that certain tweets this week referring to the publication of the report have led Mr Banks's legal representatives to believe he may be mentioned within it. A source close to the committee has suggested the legal letter may have an impact on delaying the report's publication. Brexiteer Conservative MP Andrew Bridgen said that he was concerned the Intelligence and Security Committee report will be another attempt to "sabotage" Brexit.
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Brexiteer Conservative MP Andrew Bridgen said that he was concerned the Intelligence and Security Committee report will be another attempt to 'sabotage' Brexit
He said: "I hope that the ISC report will not be used as yet another attempt to try to discredit the referendum vote for Brexit or to smear Arron Banks again. Too often we have seen that Remainers cannot accept defeat and have repeatedly used any means possible to attempt to undermine and discredit the result. "Yet whenever the British people have been asked to vote in a referendum or election in the last four years they have consistently and increasingly overwhelmingly backed the Leave side." The row over using allegations of Russian influence as part of a "witch hunt" against Brexiteers has already seen two Parliamentary inquiries open into whether the Electoral Commission is "fit for purpose". This week legal representatives of Mr Banks and his associate Andy Wigmore sent a 25-page submission to the Speaker's Committee inquiry into the Electoral Commission.
The long-awaited report was drawn up by the committee under the chairmanship of Remain supporting former MP Dominic Grieve
It detailed how they were allegedly pursued on the basis of "hearsay and speculative press reports" as well as political pressure from pro-Remain MPs. Writing for the Sunday Express today, Mr Banks specifically linked the Electoral Commission's inquiries into false accusations to the ISC report. He said: "The background to the report is clear. Russian interference in Brexit has become a mythical mantra for hardcore Remainers as they sought to try to discredit the result in any way they could. "We are living in an age where political opponents are not prepared to accept defeat at the ballot box and use other methods. "The report is the last in a series of attacks intended to undermine not only Brexit but the Conservative Government."


thedailyexpress--2020-07-19--Corbyn's Labour being eradicated: Another key ally to step down as Starmer tightens grip

Mr McCluskey , a key ally of former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn , became general secretary of the UK ’ s largest trade union in 2010 and was twice re-elected to the position .
The 69-year-old 's term of office finishes in 2022 but The Times reported that a successor will be chosen a year earlier .
Mr McCluskey has been a vocal critic of Sir Keir , savaging his “ timid leadership ” and warning him he can not win a general election without the support of the Left .
In a previous shock interview , Mr McCluskey also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ very much based on the pledges that he made to get him into leadership ” .
This included continuing Labour 's radical values , hiking taxes on the highest earners , improving union rights and nationalising the rail , mail and utility sectors - all key policy pledges under Mr Corbyn .
Its support was vital to Mr Corbyn ’ s survival as Labour leader for four years and he appointed its officials to powerful roles in his office .
However , the union is now at a crossroads , as Sir @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Corbyn era and reduce Labour ’ s reliance on left-wing unions .
READ MORE : Keir Starmer warned he could follow Corbyn by falling into THIS trap It comes at a time when key allies of Mr Corbyn slowly disappear from the Labour front benches .
Sir Keir sacked former shadow education secretary Rebecca Long-Bailey in June after she shared an article containing anti-Semitic conspiracy theory and just this week Lloyd Russell-Moyle stepped down from the frontbench after he came under pressure for comments he made about JK Rowling 's domestic abuse @ @ @ @ @ @ @ departure comes after Unison leader Dave Prentis announced he would be stepping down from his role at the end of the year , while Tim Roache , general secretary of the GMB , stood down in April citing ill health .
DO N'T MISS Labour war : McCluskey attacks 'timid ' Starmer for lack of leadership [ OPINION ] Jeremy Corbyn 's Brexit plot exposed as 'cynical betrayal ' [ REVEALED ] Sir Michael Fallon mocks Jeremy Corbyn in stern Russia warning [ INSIGHT ] The GMB later said it had received an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of allegations have been made about Tim 's conduct '' while he was leader .
The race to succeed Mr McCluskey had already begun , with Steve Turner , the union 's assistant general secretary , submitting his nomination to be the candidate of United Left , a broad-left organisation within the union .
The section is holding a hustings on Saturday with Mr Turner and Northern Ireland-born solicitor left-wing veteran nominated as candidates .

Len McCluskey says he gets 'angry' over trade union restrictions
Mr McCluskey, a key ally of former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, became general secretary of the UK’s largest trade union in 2010 and was twice re-elected to the position. The 69-year-old's term of office finishes in 2022 but The Times reported that a successor will be chosen a year earlier.
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Mr McCluskey has been a vocal critic of Sir Keir, savaging his “timid leadership” and warning him he cannot win a general election without the support of the Left. In a previous shock interview, Mr McCluskey also warned his support for Sir Keir is “very much based on the pledges that he made to get him into leadership”. This included continuing Labour's radical values, hiking taxes on the highest earners, improving union rights and nationalising the rail, mail and utility sectors - all key policy pledges under Mr Corbyn.
Len McCluskey is reportedly set to step down early
Len McCluskey became general secretary of the UK’s largest trade union in 2010
Unite, with 1.2 million members, is Labour’s biggest donor. Its support was vital to Mr Corbyn’s survival as Labour leader for four years and he appointed its officials to powerful roles in his office. However, the union is now at a crossroads, as Sir Keir seeks to break away definitively from the Corbyn era and reduce Labour’s reliance on left-wing unions. READ MORE: Keir Starmer warned he could follow Corbyn by falling into THIS trap
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McCluskey is a key ally of former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn
It comes at a time when key allies of Mr Corbyn slowly disappear from the Labour front benches. Sir Keir sacked former shadow education secretary Rebecca Long-Bailey in June after she shared an article containing anti-Semitic conspiracy theory and just this week Lloyd Russell-Moyle stepped down from the frontbench after he came under pressure for comments he made about JK Rowling's domestic abuse revelations. Mr McCluskey’s reported departure comes after Unison leader Dave Prentis announced he would be stepping down from his role at the end of the year, while Tim Roache, general secretary of the GMB, stood down in April citing ill health. DON'T MISS
Labour war: McCluskey attacks 'timid' Starmer for lack of leadership [OPINION]
Jeremy Corbyn's Brexit plot exposed as 'cynical betrayal' [REVEALED]
Sir Michael Fallon mocks Jeremy Corbyn in stern Russia warning [INSIGHT]
Len McCluskey has been vocal critic of Sir Keir
Sir Keir Starmer continues to make his mark on the Labour Party
The GMB later said it had received an anonymous letter in which "a number of allegations have been made about Tim's conduct" while he was leader. The race to succeed Mr McCluskey had already begun, with Steve Turner, the union's assistant general secretary, submitting his nomination to be the candidate of United Left, a broad-left organisation within the union. The section is holding a hustings on Saturday with Mr Turner and Northern Ireland-born solicitor left-wing veteran nominated as candidates.
Main reason for not sticking with Labour
The hustings were announced when it was believed the term of Mr McCluskey would finish in April 2022. Mr Beckett, a fierce critic of Sir Keir, is the current de facto deputy to Mr McCluskey, and previously accused the Labour leader of punishing the working class for the coronavirus crisis. He has been tipped to see off the challenge of Mr Turner, a union official that has played a leading role in industrial disputes involving industry sector giants British and Bombardier.