Former PM May attacks Labour over her DEAL - After Brexit 3

Daily Mail: Reports " The lone rager: Masked Theresa May vents fury at MPs for failing to back her 'better' Brexit deal last year while branding Boris Johnson's agreement 'disappointing' "

Lets Get Real:

This blog always thought it was a mistake for former PM Theresa May to stay in the in the House of Commons after she was forced out by her backbench MPs.  The former PM is angry at being forced out of job she loved, that the House of Commons rejected her agreement by vast numbers.  The article reports that while having a go at the present PM she also went after the leader of the Opposition for playing political games, her deal was a far softer Brexit and it was rejected by the Labour Party, one can see why she is angry, as noted previously in this blog, the Labour Party was under orders to vote for the Boris Deal, if they had voted for the May deal then history might have been different, very different.  The PM should consider offering May a Seat in the Lords, then she can states her views but not seen as another Edward Heath who had the longest hump with Lady Thatcher when she replaced him as Conservative leader and later as PM. 

It's over - Brexit Wars - Part 2 - After Brexit 2

 Sky News: Reports " Boris Johnson signs Brexit trade deal after MPs give overwhelming backing for EU agreement...The House of Commons backs the agreement, struck between Boris Johnson and the EU on Christmas Eve, by 521 votes to 73  "

Lets Get Real:

Thus the Brexit Wars are over for NOW, 2024 is another matter or when the PM calls an election as the Government plans to revoke the Fixed term Parliament Act, about time too, the Cameron idea was a bad mistake, it revoked the ability of the PM to call an election when he or she wanted.  Thus for the future, the UK and the EU should have a good relationship, there will no longer be reason to go all negative on the EU, we are Sovereign States with a long history, and of course there is culture links etc.  The UK can now go out in the World and look for good trade deals, before the EU controlled the trade links, NOW we can discuss trade deals with the old Commonwealth and Southern Americas, that is the future of course.  Let's enjoy this moment, someone of us have been waiting 50 years for this to happen. 

Is OVER - Brexit - After Brexit 1

BBC News: Reports on the vote in the House of Commons, " A bill bringing the deal into UK law was backed by the Commons by 521 to 73 votes after Parliament was recalled. "

Lets Get Real:

Thus after decades it comes to and END, we are out of the EU as of 11pm tomorrow night, it will be 12am Brussels time.  The old arguments can be put away in till the General Election of 2024 when the Conservatives will paint Sir Keir as a remainer who will take the UK back in to the EU.  The Labour Party will really have to make it clear that they accept that we are out of the EU and they will not try to hoodwink the voter by saying one thing and doing another, going back in to the EU without a Referendum, it is going to take a few years before people believe Sir Keir really accepts the result.  The next question is WHAT NEXT, the UK Government has to make the UK a great place for business, outside of the EU, thus lower taxes and better government support. Business leaders might look to invest in Northern Ireland, best of both Worlds, still in the EU but also part of the UK, a great strategic place for business. 

Labour's Brexit Problem - After Brexit 3

Daily Mail: Reports " Corbyn ally John McDonnell leads revolt against Keir Starmer's decision to support Boris Johnson's 'rotten' Brexit trade deal as 'more than 20' Labour MPs prepare to defy their leader and vote against the accord "

Lets Get Real:

This is a brave move by Sir Keir, well brave and not, he wants win back the red wall seats in the 2024 general election and he has to show that he understands what these voters want, they want Brexit done and dusted.  The HARD LEFT, have still not gotten the fact that LABOUR lost big in 2019 because they were out of tune with their old voters, they see their future in City's and towns with Universities.  Thus the hard left has gone from attacking the EU to supporting it, while others who are not on the left want to re-join the EU and have the Euro as our currency.  One does wonder how long it will take for LABOUR MPs to get the message, the UK voted out in 2016 and 2019, respect the voter and they will vote for you. 

ERG and the Brexit Deal - After Brexit 2

Sky News: Reports " Brexit: European Research Group of Conservative MPs gives support for EU trade deal...The group's backing for the agreement provides a significant boost for Boris Johnson ahead of a House of Commons vote on the deal. "

Lets Get Real:

This confirms that the ERG will support the Brexit Deal, if they support it, then no real Brexit supporter can vote against it, of course there might be a few remainers still in the Conservative fold.  The real split will be in the Labour Party, there will be remainer MPs who afraid if they vote for the deal they could be ousted by their remain voters, also there might be a few Labour MPs who want a NO DEAL BREXIT, you never know.   How is Jeremy Corbyn going to vote, he has spent most of his life being in opposition to the EU, how about this deal, it will be interesting to see the voting record.  Thus on Friday the UK will be a sovereign nation again, it has taken decades but it will happen at 11 o clock UK time on Thursday, no Parties or drinks due to COVID - 19.

Our UK Sausages and the EU - After Brexit 1

BBC News: Reports " Raw sausages and other minced meats can no longer be exported to the EU from 1 January, according to new rules.  "

Lets Get Real

Just as the blog was about to get nice about the French and the EU, they ban our raw sausages, how about we return the favour and ban French wine, that would allow other Countries to develop their wine industry and have a ready market in the UK.  The UK expects the EU to play these kind of games, its almost like the TV series Yes Prime Minister, when Hacker gets the job after attacking the EU for banning English sausages. Thank goodness the UK is out of the horrid intuition, we are a sovereign nation again. What would Sir Humphrey say! 

The Politics of Brexit for the Conservatives and Labour Party - After Brexit

Daily Mail: Reports " Michael Gove claims Brexit trade deal will leave UK fishermen in a 'stronger position' but industry chiefs blast they will be 'absolutely worse off' as Keir Starmer faces a Labour revolt over backing the accord and EU ambassadors begin approval process "

Lets Get Real:

The politics of this should be simple, the Conservatives have given the UK voter what they voted for in 2016 and 2019, the ERG has been very quiet so far as to their view of the Brexit Deal, it has been reported that they on the whole will back the deal, with a few eccentrics who want a NO DEAL BREXIT, bit late in the day for that, while the Labour Party has double trouble, the Labour Party on the whole supported staying in the EU, and thus their loss of the red wall in 2019.  The new leader, Sir Keir Starmer wants to be PM in 2024 or when the PM calls an election, and thus he is whipping his MPs to support the BREXIT DEAL.   Those MPs of remain Seats are in a difficult position, if they think they will lose their seat if they voted for the Deal then they might think better to oppose the deal, but if they do this and are part of the Shadow Cabinet or the front bench they will have to resign.   In the end BREXIT might cause more problems for Labour than the Conservatives, let's see what the ERG say today. 

The NEXT US President - Joe Biden - US Transitional Phase

Sky News: Reports " Joe Biden hits out at 'irresponsible' Trump over failure to share national security information...The president-elect has complained that the Trump administration's actions are "nothing short of irresponsible". "

Lets Get Real:

This blog has kept out of US politics after the Presidential Election, Trump has still not conceded and still thinks the election was stolen from him, he lost the popular vote by millions and Biden had a good victory in the electoral college.   POTUS has sent out hundred of tweets to the effect that he WON the election and complaining that the US Supreme Court has not bent to his will.  Also he has been using his PARDON power to help his friends and Republicans.  The fact that he not giving intelligence information to the Biden Campaign, should worry Democrats and Republicans, what if he supports an Israeli ATTACK on Iran, thus Biden could find that he has an active WAR on his hands.  Also the Biden Administration will have to deal with a Russian cyber attack on Government departments, how will a President Biden react to that.  Of course he will appease Iran, he will try to get the Obama Iran Deal back in to place, that could cause problems.  The White House staff should bring Biden out for big events and speeches, Biden should rest in the afternoon, JFK did, well if you call it rest. Even the Gipper was known to take 40 winks, and they are considered GREAT PRESIDENTS.   The above was the original premises of the TV Show, the West Wing, but then they found that people liked Martin Sheen as President , ( great actor, even if the character he was playing was weak as dishwater, had a meltdown even if he had to take military action or covert action ). Biden can not afford to have the perception that he has gone gaga ( not the singer but the medical condition.  

The DAY after Brexit - 1st January 2021 - After Brexit

BBC News: Reports " There will be "bumpy moments" for UK businesses and travellers as they get to grips with new EU rules, says government minister Michael Gove.  "

Lets Get Real:

One hopes individuals and business have gotten the message of Brexit and are following the NEW RULES, the papers have been full of them, but of course there will be problems, more on the EU side this blog expects, the French will want to show their customs management working, thus be sure to follow the custom rules, and read up on the dog passport, dogs are for life not just Christmas.  The UK side we shall see the end of free movement, thus lower immigration, no more subs to the EU, that can go to the NHS and to Northern England.  Thus life after Brexit, the HARD BITTEN remainers think that Brexit will be disaster, they almost want it to be a disaster!  Thus the UK has to make it work, just show the remain press that the UK does not need the EU and we can be Great again as a sovereign NATION. 

ERG seem to support Brexit Deal - After Brexit

Daily Mail: Reports " Hardliners fall in behind Brexit deal: Boris Johnson appears to win support of Tory Eurosceptics for his EU trade agreement "

Lets Get Real:

One hopes the Daily Mail article correct, it would be good for the Conservatives to face 2021, there are other issues to have a rebellion about, when will the Government lift the tier system, how many people have had to have the vaccine.  The UK economy is in the basked after the virus, the Chancellor will need to open his wallet to support pubs and restaurants who have been forced to close for most of the year.  There are suggestions that the Chancellor will need to rise taxes to pay back for the Government spending, it is then that the MPs will have to keep their nerve, the next election is four years away, take some of the tough medicine NOW and cut taxes closer to the election.  A return to normal of politics, well normal politics after Brexit and the COVID 19 virus. 

The Brexit Deal and the ERG - Post Brexit

Sky News: Reports on remarks by the PM when it comes to the European Research Group, " the deal, he believes that it will stand up to inspection from sceptics such as the European Research Group (ERG) of Brexiteers. "

Lets Get Real:

One hopes the ERG will look at the Brexit Deal in the round, it returns sovereignty and the UK no longer is in the orbit of the EU.  There is the end of freedom of movement, many voted for a Brexit due to this reason, the UK longer pays in to the EU, there is an agreement on fish, not perfect, but a start.  Thus far no one has found a trick clause that allows the EU to override  UK law.  The power of the ECJ comes to an end, and the UK returns to a trade only deal with the EU, as it was started in 1970s.  It will be interesting to hear what the ERG say on Tuesday, touch wood the deal is on the up.

After Brexit and the Conservative Government - Post Brexit

BBC News: Reports " Brexit: PM vows to focus on 'levelling up country' after securing deal "

Lets Get Real:

Thus in 2021 we have the COVID - 19 vaccine, that will deal with the original virus and its mutation, then we have a BREXIT DEAL, that allows us to trade with the EU but keeps the Sovereign power in the House of Commons. The Labour Party MPs will face a three line whip to vote for the deal, while it is expected that most of the ERG will support the deal, of course there will be exceptions, the House of Commons has a few eccentrics.   Thus the BREXIT DEAL should pass with a health majority.  In 2021 the Johnson Government will need to keep to its promise of sharing the London wealth with the North, the Conservatives won a 80 seat majority on getting Brexit done and levelling up the Country.  The economy is in a mess after COVID - 19 and it is still not finished, thus the Government will need to open its wallet to secure jobs ALL around the UK.  The pub industry will need to be supported, it can be postulated that thousand of pubs will have closed their doors for the last time.  Thus 2021 is about regeneration of the UK. 

Happy Christmas and a Happy New Year to EVERYONE

Happy Christmas 

&  Happy New Year

EVERYONE 

Mr Brexit approves of Brexit Deal - Brexit Update 3 - Transitional Phase

Daily Mail: Reports " 'It may not be perfect, but it's a big step forward': Nigel Farage says he would vote for Brexit deal 'in principle' if he was an MP as UK signs historic trade agreement with the EU "

Lets Get Real:

It will be interesting to see how the ERG vote when the Brexit Deal comes to the House of Commons, if Nigel Farage is for it, the ERG will need dam good reason to object, sometimes its easier to get on a train than see it pass you in the wind.  The ERG as this blog suggested will go through the deal in detail, a deal that gets you 70% of what you want, is better than NO DEAL, not every ERG will support the Deal that is expected, but the PM should get a majority of them to vote for the Deal.  Thus you have the Labour Party voting for the deal, Government Ministers and their staff and one presumes most Conservative MPs, then the deal should go through, those opposed will be the SNP, Liberal Democrats and a few ERG members, some are people will never be pleased. 

PM Boris on Brexit Deal - Brexit Update 2 - Transitional Phase

Sky News: Reports on remarks by the PM on Europe, " The prime minister promised the deal will allow companies "to do even more business with our European friends" while "taking back control of our laws and our destiny" "

Lets Get Real:

The PM had some nice words to say about Europe, that the UK had cultural links to the EU, etc. this was to keep the Remainers happy, or as I call them moaning remainers.  As of the 1st of January 2021 the UK is FREE of Europe, we can do what we like, not that we are going to rush to change things, just we have the option as a sovereign nation, the main issue for a lot of voters in 2016 was immigration, the UK will decide who comes in to the UK in the New Year with the end of freedom of movement. Given the economic shock of COVID - 19 and its mutant strain, there will be a lot of unemployed UK citizens looking for jobs that were once done by Europeans.  It will be a relief not to have to think about EU or Brexit for a while.   This blog might go for a city break in Paris, one hopes they KNOW now how to make a cup of tea and not Ice Tea, that is an American invention.  

Finally a BREXIT DEAL - Brexit Update 1 - Transitional Phase

BBC News: Reports " both the UK and the EU have put pragmatism over firm principle, and agreed an historic accord that will affect so many aspects of how we live.  "

Lets Get Real:

Thus we finally have a BREXIT DEAL, let's look at the positive outcomes of the Brexit Deal, the UK as of the December 31st will have control of its borders ( No free movement ), no more monies to the EU ( No more expensive subs ) and we will get our fish back during a 5 year transition.  There will be NO ROLE for the ECJ, and any difficulties will be judged by a new body represented by the EU and the UK.   The minus point, we do not get ALL our fish back, it has been argued that the fishing industry could never have built the new fishing ships in time, so a transitional period is good.  A good DEAL should please both sides, that seems to have worked, the EU regrets we are leaving but accepts the fact, while the UK is FREE of the EU as of 1st of JANUARY.   Not a bad day at all. It should be noted that we have not seen the details of the deal, it does not matter, as Labour will support the Deal, no real choice, they do not want a NO DEAL BREXIT. When a reporter asked Sir Keir what were the benefits of the leaving the EU he did not have an answer, he needs an answer by 2024.

A Brexit Deal ? - Part 3 - Transitional Phase

Daily Mail: Reports " In a bid to break the deadlock, the Prime Minister's chief negotiator David Frost has tabled a new offer on fishing that would allow EU trawlers to keep more of the fish they currently catch in UK waters. "

Lets Get Real:

This is a sell out, you either have total sovereignty or not, the very point of Brexit is to allow the UK to control its waters and fish, why give fish concessions to France, they have blocked DOVER over COVID - 19 and in general have not been that helpful.  One can only hope that the ERG can stop this latest development, one of their members needs to have a WORD with 10 Downing Street, they made Boris PM and they can get rid of him if they like. This is a time for strong nerves and tough view of Paris, the French President faces elections and thus is acting tough, well the PM has four years left, he can be tough, no weakness in the face of the French, if we are weak NOW, the French will try to bully us again. 

A Brexit Deal? Part 2 - Brexit Update 2 - Transitional Phase

Sky News: Reports " Talks in 'end phase' as hopes of UK-EU trade deal rise...With both sides trying to reach an agreement before 31 December, sources in London and Brussels say a deal could be close. "

Lets Get Real:

The European Research Group has to go through any BREXIT DEAL in detail and be very quick about it, the Government is hoping to get the deal through in ONE DAY  in Parliament, with Labour supporting ANY Deal, they will win, but the ERG must place down a marker, if they see IF Boris has sold out  or the deal is to generous to the EU.  It has been reported that the PM has told the ERG that they will like the DEAL, we shall see, once rebels it is very hard not to rebel.  Let's be honest Boris is PM because of the ERG and their move to get rid of PM May, thus Boris can not afford to annoy them.  A goo deal benefits both the UK and the EU, if it is to sided for the EU then the UK loses.  Thus we await a deal.

Brexit Deal ? - Brexit Update 1 - Transitional Phase

BBC News: Reports " The EU and UK are continuing talks on post-Brexit trade, amid mounting speculation that they are close to agreeing a deal. "

Lets Get Real:

As stated let's hope that PM Boris has not sold us out as to please the EU, as the article states the ERG will go through ANY deal in detail.  One can not trust the EU to place something in there that the UK would never approve if the deal had the time to be read thoroughly.   It has been reported that the PM has stated to the ERG, that they will be happy with the agreement, we shall see, the EU never gives something for nothing.  The UK must keep UK WATERS, they are sovereign waters and we must get a majority of the fish fished in UK waters.   The EU rules should not apply to the UK and the European Court of Justice should have NO Role in judging any Brexit Deal.

UK AND EU Leaders in talks - Brexit Update 3 - Transitional Phase

Daily Mail: Reports " Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen held a secret phone call yesterday to discuss the state of the talks and as negotiators appeared to be inching towards a breakthrough on fishing rights.  "

Lets Get Real:

One can only hope that Boris has not sold the UK fishermen down the river, the French have shown that they would go to ANY means to thwart BREXIT, the latest the hold up in Dover, the ironic part is that most of the drivers it seems are EU citizens who want to go home.  That is not to say that the mutation of the COVID - 19 virus is not a major problem, it is, but its only the French who banned lorries.  This blog is of the firm view that the UK should go for a NO DEAL Brexit, cut links with the EU and start afresh, one only hopes that No 10 has its ears open to the views of the UK voter.

EU/UK talks still have problem over FISH - Brexit Update 2 - Transitional Phase

Sky News: Reports " Brexit: Signs deal still possible - but differences on fisheries 'remain difficult to bridge'...With just nine days to go until the end of the transition, Michel Barnier says the bloc is giving a "final push" to reach a deal. "

Lets Get Real:

Thus we are back to FISH again, the UK Government should demand a majority of fish caught in UK waters are caught by UK fishermen, or boats with a majority of UK owners.  If need be the UK should be willing to give monies to those EU fishermen who are out of business.  The idea that the French want to keep their fish concessions at its present level should be a no go area for the UK Government.  The idea that the talks should carry on after January 1st is a no go area for the UK Government, if not, it should be.  These talks are fast becoming a FARCE, the French are using Dover as way to hammer the UK, this is what you would expect from the French. Time to get a RESULT. 

Brexit Latest - Brexit Update 1 - Transitional Phase

BBC News: Reports " The EU and UK are making a "final push" for a post-Brexit trade deal, EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier has said. "

Lets Get Real:

These talks have lasted longer that some modern WARS, the First Gulf War lasted a hundred Hours before victory, the UK and EU delegations must be going over every word in detail.   One can only hope that the PM stands firm against the BAD COP policy of the French, from the delays in Dover to their demand for a large Fishing concession.  It is reported that MPs have been warned to come back to the House of Commons next week to vote on a Deal.  One hopes that the ERG will go through the DEAL in detail, let's see if Boris has made major concessions to the EU, and try to stop them.  On also hopes that the LABOUR PARTY can decide on a policy, and vote either way and not abstain.

Is PM Boris selling out our fishermen ? - Brexit Update 3 - Transitional Phase

Guardian: Reports " According to EU sources, the British demand for a 60% reduction in the catch by value in British waters had been reduced to 35%, far closer to the 25% reduction that Frost’s EU counterpart, Michel Barnier, had said he would be prepared to accept. "

Lets Get Real:

If the above is TRUE, then Boris is selling out the UK fishermen, this is Ted Heath all over again.  The ERG should be on to No 10 to tell them they will oppose ANY SELLOUT, the French are using the COVID - 19 crisis as a reason to play the bully boy or BAD COP.  The UK side has to be FIRM, UK waters and fish are the sovereign section of the UK not up for debate or talks.  This is why the delegations are talking, the UK might just be selling the UK out.  It is time for Brexit supporters to phone, email, text your MP and get him or her to oppose any sell out of the UK.  We shall see if No 10 rejects the story.  

Are the French playing HARDBALL over Brexit ? - Brexit Update 2 - Transitional Phase

Daily Mail: Reports " Downing Street categorically rules out extending the post-Brexit transition period and slaps down claims that France closed the border to force the UK to agree to a bad trade deal "

Lets Get Real:

Why the UK is being nice about French God only knows, they would not be if the shoe was on the other foot.  The UK/EU Delegation have been talking for DAYS, what an earth are they talking about, they just going through the same issues, over and over again.  There were reports that the PM would decide by Christmas if the talks were to carry on, well its getting close to a deadline, the PM must make his mind up, DEAL OR NO DEAL, and just carry through with the decision.  The European Research Group as smelling that the No 10 will sell them out, thus they are very wary of Boris and his Cabinet.  They will need to keep the pressure on Boris, they put him there, they can also topple him if need be, time is precious.

COVID 19/02 ( Mutation ) - COVID 19 Update - Health/Economy

Sky News: Reports " COVID-19: More areas could go into Tier 4 as variant strain spreads, Sir Patrick Vallance suggests....The PM also casts some doubt over whether schools would return in January following the latest development in the pandemic. "

Lets Get Real:

The Prime Ministerial Q/A was a non event in public information terms, everyone KNOWS that the mutated virus is more dangerous, the French are milking the event, if this is not about FISH I will eat my HAT.  In that case the French have made a mistake, the UK Government has been planning for a NO DEAL BREXIT for months, thus they are aware of the traffic problems at the PORTS and what to do when it comes to a diversion of those trucks.  One does hope the French get off their backsides and allow lorries to get to Europe, it seems it most Europeans wanting to get home, they might even be French.  Typical French. 

Brexit Deadline is set for 31st December - Brexit Update 1 - Transitional Phase

BBC News: Reports " The government has ruled out extending the deadline for reaching a post-Brexit trade deal into 2021, amid a deadlock in talks and a growing Covid crisis.  "

Lets Get Real:

At least the PM has not done a U - turn over the Brexit Deadline, the UK Government must know by NOW what is the likely outcome, the PM as his want, was sounding chipper about a NO DEAL BREXIT, while saying he wants an agreement.  That are the UK and EU delegations talking about, from TV footage, it looks like Lord Frost has not changed his shirt in days, not even a tie, he must be peeved at being stuck in Brussels, how is he and his delegation meant to get home for Christmas, if the Euro Train is barred from Europe. The RAF might need to go and get him, the talks could restart after Boxing Day, but if the sides can not agree on fish after ALL these hours talking, what is the point!  The UK side must be near Saints to put with these talks. 

COVID - 19 Latest - Health/Economy

Sky News: Reports " COVID-19: Major disruption expected at Kent ports after France bans all UK arrivals...Hauliers warn the border closure could be a "hammer blow" to an industry already impacted by the Christmas rush and Brexit. "

Lets Get Real:

If one was a cynic, this could be seen as a hardball tactic by the French, with the Brexit talks stalled, the French could be using the mutant virus scare to cause problems for the British Government.  Thus the UK Government should be FIRMER with the Paris, use their tactic against them, be even more stubborn on Brexit, and park lorries at the coasts, and also tell lorry drivers who want to go to France, that due to the actions of the French, there will be no individual or commercial transport to France and the rest of the EU.  The UK Government should fly the vaccine from Europe, thus avoid the Ports. It will be interesting to see what the EU does over the next 48 hours. 

No Deal Brexit by 31st December ? - Brexit Update 1 - Transitional Phase

BBC News: Reports " No trade deal unless 'substantial shift' from EU, UK says"

Lets Get Real:

Thus the Sunday deadline by the European Parliament for a Brexit Deal has passed and no deal, also due to the mutation of the COVID - 19 virus most of the EU is closing its border to the UK, some Countries that also mans lorries.  The UK PM has to be FIRM with the EU, within nothing moving, the UK is not afraid of a NO DEAL BREXIT, our waters and our fish, and the French can bugger off if they think they are getting our fish.  The UK voter voted in 2016 and 2019 for the UK to leave the EU, it did not vote for commercial links or trade links, thus the UK should have a clear break with the the EU, that would be popular in the UK if not the EU.  The blame can be pointed at the French, the French President has meet his Waterloo, e.g Fish. 

Brexit Latest - Brexit Update 1 - Transitional Phase

Brexit is never far away from my heart!!

Sky News: Reports " 'Biggest problem' as ministers are warned it's 'very, very late' for post-Brexit business plan....The House of Commons' Brexit committee has said communications with businesses have been "patchy at best" "

Lets Get Real:

The UK Government must hold its line when it comes to UK fish and the level playing field, it can not appease the EU.   As to the above reports, the Committee is headed by a FIRM REMAINER, thus can be discarded.  If the UK can get through World War One and Two and the Spanish flu it can get through Brexit.  The PM has to keep to his promise of the UK Government and Parliament being in control of our laws and water.  The EU will try to bully the UK when it is at its weakest, it must not bend, like a straw in the wind. Boris needs to be Boris, get Brexit done. NO APPEASING EU, this is not Munich 1938.

 

Wales in LOCKDOWN as of 12am tonight - COVID - 19/Health

BBC News: Reports " Wales lockdown at midnight as Christmas plans cut "

Lets Get Real:

This blogger had started to watch a History TV show on the Plague in the 14th Century, not a good idea, just reinforces the worry about now and COVID - 19.  In essence the UK is being closed down because we have mutation of COVID - 19 and its is 70% faster in getting at individuals.  Christmas Day season, only starts on 12am on Christmas Day and and finishes on 12am on Boxing Day.   For this blogger this vaccine can not come fast enough, the virus has taken away his Saturday's and will prevent it getting its book order by Christmas, but that is small reason not be happy, what about those who have died, those still in hospital and those with long term COVID - 19.  The UK Government needs the rollout to go well, and its needs to use both new vaccines, have Liverpool play Manchester United, invite people, a free match but everyone that goes has to take a the vaccine before they go in, the vaccine needs to get out in to the community, have pubs that will only allow you in if you have had the jab, put vaccine agents at the door, that will get the vaccine out and fast. 

Is the Sunday deadline by the European Parliament a sign of a breakthrough - Brexit Update 4 - Transitional Phase

Guardian: Reports " Michel Barnier has raised hopes of a weekend Brexit deal after persuading the European parliament to stretch its deadline to last thing on Sunday – even as UK ministers put the chance of an agreement at less than 50%. "

Lets Get Real:

It will be interesting to see who plays the PR expectation game better, the UK or the EU.  One can postulate that the sides are close to a DEAL, but the main problem is fishing, its represents a symbol of Brexit for most people, any sell out will be seen as a betrayal by the UK Government to the EU.  Thus the UK side should be demanding at least 60% of fish caught in UK waters should be taken by UK ships registered in the UK or mainly owned by UK interests.  The deal should not crash because of fish but on the other hand, the PM needs to show a big win there.   Let's see who is the best poker player.  The UK as a Sovereign Nation after 31st December needs to control its waters, border and make it own laws.

A Sunday DEADLINE by the European Parliament - Brexit Update 3 - Transitional Phase

Daily Mail: Reports on the latest opinion from the European Parliament, " they are ready to hold an extraordinary session at the end of December if an agreement is reached by midnight on Sunday December 21. "

Lets Get Real:

The European Parliament will be lucky if this deadline is held by the joint delegations, last Sunday's deadline did not happen and the latest news seems gloomy from the UK side.  One does wonder what the delegations are talking about, how many times can you look at the subject before you hate the policy and the other delegation.   These talks have lasted longer than some of my affairs, and they actually liked me.  It seems that the European Parliament is showing its teeth, pity they are rotten and no one cares.  If the delegations reach an agreement by 5pm on the December 31st then UK Parliament and the European Parliament will be expected to pass ANY DEAL.  Sad when we finally leave the EU on the 31st December we can not celebrate as all the pubs will be CLOSED.  It says a lot about our relationship with the EU over the decades.

A Brexit Deal by Friday ? - Brexit Update 2 - Transitional Phase

Sky News: Reports " Two EU diplomats have told Reuters that they did not expect a deal to come together by Friday.  "

Lets Get Real:

The EU and the UK are playing the expectations game, the EU looks at the rainbow and sees gold, while the UK sees thunder and awaits for the storm.  That is why the UK and the EU was never a good fit at the best of times, and this is not the best of times.  The truth is somewhere in the MIDDDLE, this blog expects a DEAL by the weekend, well at least before the European Parliament deadline of Sunday, this would give the Parliament a chance to read the summary if not the whole DEAL, it is believed to be over a thousand pages!

What are the CHANCES of a Brexit Deal ? - Brexit Update 1 - Transitional Phase

BBC News: Reports " Brexit trade talks: Less than 50% chance of deal, says Michael Gove "

Lets Get Real:

The House of Commons has been sent home, with the warning that they could be recalled if there is a Brexit Deal within the next few days, now this warning by Michael Gove, that a chance of a Brexit Deal is about less than 50%.  The PM and the Conservative Government is playing HARDBALL with the EU, the deal is close, but the Government must not sell out UK fisherman over UK waters or that the EU can direct UK law through the backdoor.   One the whole this blog predicts a DEAL, but one that might be contested by the ERG, if they go through it in detail, thus the need for a quick approval by the House of Commons and the House of Lords.   The PM is facing the EU but looking over his shoulder at his own Party, tricky politics.

A Brexit Deal and the Houses of Parliament - Brexit Update 3 - Transitional Phase

Telegraph: Reports " MPs primed to vote for a potential Brexit trade deal next week...The Telegraph understands plans being studied by the Commons leader involve lawmakers being asked to sit on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday "

Lets Get Real:

The devil is in the detail, the ERG must make sure that the Brexit Deal gives the UK back its sovereignty after decades tied to the EU.  A rushed parliamentary process allows for a weak deal that allows for a backdoor access to UK law by the EU.  The Conservative Government is lucky, the Labour leader has made it clear that Labour will back ANY DEAL, it wants the issue to go away and it wants to win back the red wall voters it lost in 2019.  The negative signals by Boris Johnson could ALL be PR, come out with a deal and then push it through the House of Commons and the Lords.   On the other hand there still could be a NO DEAL, that would be best for the UK, cut ALL links with the EU, then start afresh with talks.   Few days of interesting politics.  

It's about Fish and Sovereignty - Brexit Update 2 - Transitional Phase

Daily Mail: Reports " The UK does not want fishing to be linked to trade because it fears the EU could use a fishing dispute to suspend parts of the trade deal. "

Lets Get Real:

The EU is playing games, its knows that if Boris sells out on fish he will be finished as leader of the Conservative Party, it would be better for the UK and for Boris to walk away from the talks.  The EU is seeking by the backdoor to regulate UK law in the future.   At least the sides have agreed to remove a deadline, it was becoming a FARCE of the first order. The last deadline is the 31st of December, after that the UK returns to WTO rules or Oz rules as often use by the PM.  One can see the Remain pressure groups and individuals getting their knickers in a twist at the thought that we will be outside the reach of the EU.  That time can not come fast enough, we are not a colony of the EU. 

Brexit Latest - Brexit Update 1 - Transitional Phase

BBC News: Reports " UK wants EU trade deal but not 'at any cost' - Boris Johnson "

Lets Get Real:

Over the past few days the issue of Brexit has gone quiet, both the EU and the UK on the whole are not leaking. Is this good or bad, the UK side has been more downbeat, as above, while the EU is giving the impression that the UK has made concessions.   It is now the 15th of December, thus we have 16 days to go before the UK leaves the transitional phase of the agreement with the EU.  The PM must be aware, that any agreement that is a sell out could cost him the support of the ERG, the ERG could remove their support for various bills and thus lead to the fall of the Johnson Government, one hopes that the pressures from the Remain side has not gotten to the PM, time will tell. 

The UK's backup PLAN for a NO DEAL BREXIT - Brexit Update 3 - Transitional Phase

Daily Mail: Reports " Ministers have drawn up plans for a £10billion bailout package for sectors of the economy that are set to be badly hit in the worst-case scenario.  "

Lets Get Real:

What is the point of drawing up plans if no one knows about it, the blink by the PM today will make business feel that the UK Government will CAVE to the EU and not a lot will change.  The PM has done another U - TURN, Lady Thatcher would have not done this even at the worse times.  One does wonder if PM Boris is up to the job.  The ERG might want to think of placing of their own in No 10, someone who can make a decision and keep to it, this move by the PM could cost him the 2024 general election and the support this like this blog.   A weak PM is no good, just look at PM May, at the beck and call of the EU through her time in power.  Not a good day for the UK, the EU might get their way at the end . 

How FAST can a TRADE DEAL but in PLACE - Brexit Update 2 - Transitional Phase

Sky News - Live Blog: Reports in its 1.40pm post the following, " The EU 27 will vow to take "all the necessary steps" to put in place any deal reached by negotiators as soon as possible, according to a coordinated response described to Reuters.  "

Lets Get Real:

This shows how cynical the EU is, they are not going to move from their redlines, they expect the UK to give ALL the concessions.  PM Boris must not allow himself to become like PM May, being bullied by the EU.  It does not matter how it looks if the UK walks away from the talks, it can be argued that both Churchill and Thatcher would not have put up with this from EU refusing to allow the UK PM to talk to the French President or the German Chancellor, when Russia threatens Poland or the Baltic States, these states will not expect help from Paris or Berlin, it is about time to remind them of that, also the the next US Administration should be warned, when it comes to the trenches, its the Brits that are with them, the rest are missing in action. Time for the UK to become the bad cop in these talks. 

Has PM Boris Blinked - UK AND EU trade talks - Brexit Update 1 - Transitional Phase

BBC News: Reports " The UK and EU have agreed to carry on post-Brexit trade talks after a call between leaders earlier on Sunday. "

Lets Get Real:

Today was meant to be NO DEAL DAY or DEAL DAY, one or the other, and NOW we have further talks, one has to ask did the PM blink, did the warnings from the Remain individual and groups frighten the PM in to seeking an extension on TALKS without any deadline.  The PM warned people to get ready for a NO DEAL Brexit, but then carries on with the talks.  The PM did not say that there has been some progress, so why allow this deadline to pass, neither side wants to be seen to pull the plug, but there is no deadline, we could be having these discussions right up to December 31st, people need to know NOW, not on January 1st 2021.

The Royal Navy to protect UK WATERS AND FISH - Brexit Update 3 - Transitional Phase

Guardian: Reports " Four navy ships to help protect fishing waters in case of no-deal Brexit...Exclusive: two vessels to be deployed at sea with two on standby in case EU fishing boats enter EEZ  "

Lets Get Real:

The presence of the UK's Royal Navy should make sure that French fishermen stay out of UK waters, if French fisherman are taken in to custody, their boats will be sold and the fishermen put on the next flight back to Paris.  This would go for any other European fishermen who come in to UK WATERS.  The EU really needs to grow up, the UK will not be bound by the EU or the French, the UK has played this game for Centuries, we know when to cut up ruff and when to take out time.  Sunday can not come fast enough for this blogger. 

France as the BAD COP - Brexit Update 2 - Transitional Phase

Sky News: Reports on remarks by the French President when it comes to UK fish - " "All I want is a cake that's worth its weight. Because I won't give up my share of it either." "

Lets Get Real:

One does wonder how the French will react when the Royal Navy bans the French fishing fleet from  ALL UK waters.  It is about time that the UK showed its teeth, all the other powers are showing their national interest not the EU interest.  One is a bit shocked by the Germans, one would have expected some more courage from the German Chancellor is bringing Paris to heel.  The German taxpayer will have to pay for the lack of economic activity by the French fishermen after Brexit.   At the end of the day its about UK Sovereignty and what the UK voters voted for in 2016 and 2019.   The EU does remind one a bit of the Austro - Hungarian Empire ( The Monarchy ) before it FELL, trying to submerge different nations in ONE, it did not work.

EU Freedom Day on Sunday ? - Brexit Update 1 - Transitional Phase

BBC News: Reports " PM and EU say trade deal unlikely by Sunday "

Lets Get Real:

The EU is playing BAD COP, that would be a serious MISTAKE, if there is NO DEAL, NO UK Government will be going back after the New Year, there will be problems, but the UK voter knew that before voting in 2016 and 2019.  The idea that Paris believes it has the right to UK fish, shows why they have been the ancient enemy for centuries, and why we sink their Naval Fleets when we get the chance, the UK had to do this in the early years of World War 2, to prevent Nazi Germany getting French Naval vessels, they can not be trusted, its France first and last with them, well its the same with the UK, we do not beg, we get angry and take down any blocks, the UK's Royal Navy will defend waters, and arrest any French fishing fleets that are in our waters without our permission, the French and Germans have not seen seen the UK as a bad cop in years due to the alliance due to WW2 and the Cold War.  It is time for the UK to show its teeth.  

The FAILED Brussels Dinner - Brexit Update 2 - Transitional Phase

Sky News: Reports " Boris Johnson's dinner with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has ended - with a senior Number 10 source warning "very large gaps remain" between the UK and the EU on a Brexit trade deal. "

Lets Get Real:

In 2016 the UK voter voted to leave the EU, there were no clauses about this that or the other, it was simple vote, in or out, the out part is the section in the Remain Press do not get even tonight, if you flicked between BBC AND Sky News.  The Remain mob want to stay connected to the EU by any means, they would even sell out UK SOVEREIGNTY for a chance to have the EU have an overview of UK law and Acts Parliament.  On December 31st the UK will have its freedom, it can not come fast enough for the UK voter.  At the end of the day its UK FISH, in our WATERS and we decide the law through the House of Commons not in Brussels. 

Further UK/EU Talks in till a Sunday Deadline - Brexit Update 1 - Transitional Phase

BBC News: Reports " 'Large gaps' remain after crucial trade talks in Brussels "

Lets Get Real:

Thus after the dinner between the UK PM and the EU President we have the statement that the the sides  remain far apart and Sunday has been set as a new deadline.   What on earth can the two delegations have to say to each other, they have been around the houses for months, the main issues are still the same, FISH in our WATERS, RULES between the sides and who will judge if either side has broken the agreement.  After endless talks, phone calls and this dinner what is the point, are both sides trying to show that they have done ALL they could, at the end of the day, the UK and the EU do not trust each other, have we ever, that is why we had BREXIT.   It is the will of the UK voter, one hopes that PM Boris does not sell out us out to carry favour with the EU.

Internal Market Bill - Brexit Update 2 - Transitional Phase

Sky News: Reports " MPs vote to reinstate controversial parts of Boris Johnson's Internal Market Bill...Theresa May is among those who abstained, as the government is accused of trying to "trample over international law". "

Lets Get Real:

The Conservative Government has offered to remove the most damaging clauses if there is a TRADE DEAL, as a safe guard the Government has added the clauses removed by the House of Lords in case there is no TRADE DEAL.  This offer should show that the UK is willing to deal, but we are a sovereign nation, and the EU must respect that, if not the PM should walk away from the talks.   The PM must not show weakness, he must not sell out UK fishermen or allow EU regulations to regulate the UK economy, time is limited for both sides, next few days will be interesting ( how many times have I written that over the years ) !