‘Barista visa’ to be introduced to EU migrants after Brexit

‘Barista visa’ to be introduced to EU migrants after Brexit

World Unknown   09:12

The Home Office under the leadership of Amber Rudd is coming up with a plan which will allow EU migrant workers to gain employment in Britain’s hospitality industry post-Brexit under a new ‘barista visa’ policy.

This option is being considered by the Home Secretary, to enable coffee shops and hotels have the needed staff after the country finally leaves the EU.

Though the policy will only allow the immigrants to stay for a maximum period of two years, and would not be permitted to make any housing benefit claim. The measure is said to have been endorsed by Lord Green, Chairman of Migration Watch UK.

According to Lord Green, the measure would “kill two birds with one stone” by concurrently ending freedom of movement while resolving the post-Brexit workforce problem.

He told The Sun: “We can meet the needs of pubs and restaurants and maintain our links with young Europeans by allowing them to come for a strictly limited period of two years to work."

The plans are based on the current Youth Mobility Scheme, which applies to travellers from Commonwealth nations Australia, New Zealand and Canada, but it would now be extended to the EU’s 27 remaining member states.

According to the Home Office spokesman: "Leaving the European Union allows Britain to take control of our immigration system.

"We are working across Government to identify and develop options to shape our future system to ensure the best possible outcome for the British people.

"It is logical to consult on proposals to make sure businesses, services and communities can contribute their views.

"However, as we are currently considering the various options as to how EU migration might work once we have left, it would be wrong to set out further positions at this stage."

Read below the new driving test rule coming up in December this year

Read below the new driving test rule coming up in December this year

World Unknown   06:45

The UK driving test procedure is being tailored to suit our modern society, as various changes listed below have been lined up to take effect from December 2017

·         You will have to show that you can follow instructions from a sat nav supplied by the examiner.

·         One in five tests will still not use a sat nav, so you will still have to be able to follow road signs as well.

·         It does not matter if you go the wrong way while following the sat nav, providing you do not make a fault while doing so.

·         The amount of independent driving you have to do in your test will increase from 10 to 20 minutes.

·         The requirement to reverse around a corner in the exam is being scrapped, although your driving instructor should still teach you how to do it.

·         Likewise, there is no requirement to do a three-point turn in your test but, again, you should know how to do one.

·         Instead you will have to show that you can perform one of three more common reversing manoeuvres.

·         These include parallel parking and driving in to and out of a parking bay (either backwards or forwards).

·         You will also be expected to show that you know how to wash the windows and use car controls like the wipers or heated windscreens.

·         The examiner will also ask you to answer two questions about vehicle safety. This will include things like tyre pressures and how to check headlights are working.

Home Office denies British born children of Greek and German couple right of permanent residency

Home Office denies British born children of Greek and German couple right of permanent residency

World Unknown   06:36

                     

                        

Another news hits public domain which states that a Greek and German couple have had their British-born children denied right of permanent residency in the UK by the Home Office.

 The father Philip who hails from Greece and Denmark and with Elizabeth Saxe-Coburg-Gotha narrated their desolation after being sweltered in a “bureaucratic nightmare”.

“One simply can’t believe it,” said Mrs Saxe-Coburg-Gotha.

“We were told we had to provide more evidence of where our children lived.

“What evidence are they supposed to have? They don’t have council tax bills, or any bills at all for that matter.”

Mr Greece and Denmark, who was born in Mon Repos on the Greek island of Corfu, said the situation was “ghastly”.

“I understand that people are angry about people coming over here, claiming vast sums in benefits and never doing a day’s work, but Prince Edward was born in London.”

Shetland Island threaten to snub Scotland and retain their British nationality should Scotland becomes independent

Shetland Island threaten to snub Scotland and retain their British nationality should Scotland becomes independent

World Unknown   08:05

The people of Shetland has given Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon a big blow with respect to her clamour for a second independence referendum for Scotland.

Lord Norman Lamont has come out to publicly condemn Sturgeon’s independence campaign, threatening that, in the event of the First Minister successfully taking Scotland out of the rest of the UK, Shetland Islands could possible become a British overseas territory.

The former chancellor branded the nationalists’ threat of a second referendum “wrong” as he disputed in favour of the Shetland Islands cutting ties from an independent Scotland.

Faroe Island and Denmark were cited as examples to what may happen, if Scotland becomes independent from the rest of the UK, by the Lerwick born Tory peer.

Made up of 18 islands, the Faroes are part of Denmark but have control of their own domestic affairs and rejected EU membership when the Danes joined in 1973.

Lord Lamont disclosed this during a press statement with the Shetland Times, as he said: “In the event of Scotland becoming independent if a majority of Shetland Islanders thought that was a sensible thing and a good thing, I think it should be pursued if Scotland were independent.

“I think looking for a Faroese-type devolution would be a perfectly legitimate thing to ask for.”

Lord Lamont, who backed Brexit but is against Scottish independence, insisted he was not trying to “stir it up” but “it’s always seemed to me an idea that was likely to rear its head again in the event of Scottish independence”.

He was quick to blast the SNP’s attempt to hold a second separation vote, just three years after Scot rejected the idea in 2014.

Also speaking, he said: “I hope we won’t have a second referendum.

“Referenda should be occasional, you can’t just keep testing public opinion until you get the answer you want - that’s quite a wrong way of proceeding.

“I think referenda ought to be rare events to measure the detail of public opinion.”

For the meantime, backing for the Shetland Islands remaining part of Britain is gathering force among islanders themselves. 

Also, Andrea Mason, a Shetland councillor and leading figure in the political movement Wir Shetland, described the islanders' plan to remain part of Britain as “wonderful”.

She said: “We would like control of the seabed around us, the fishing ground around us, and the freedom to get rid of some of the bureaucracy that comes down from the EU, Westminster and the Scottish parliament.

"Our seas are being plundered by foreign boats. We also contribute an enormous amount of money to the national economy through taxes, through the oil revenues, and yet we don't get back our fair share."

Theresa May told to place a five-year ban on unskilled migrants

Theresa May told to place a five-year ban on unskilled migrants

World Unknown   07:46

In a bid to reduce immigration to the tens of thousands, a new strategy has been proposed to the Prime Minister to enable her hit the proposed target.

The proposal states that the UK government should introduce a five-year freeze on unskilled migrants into the country, and also enforce a 50, 000 cap on immigration annually on new arrivals coming into the Britain.

According to the advocate of the proposals, known as Leave Means Leave, the strategy if adopted will go a long way in helping to reduce migration to the level it was in the 90s.

The group, backed by former Cabinet ministers as well as 15 Tory MPs, says Brexit provides a “golden opportunity” to curtail immigration at last.

Though this new measure is being targeted against migrants who have no skills coming from other EU nations, as they make about 80 percent of people coming into the UK.

The blueprint for “fair” immigration has been drawn up by former UKIP leadership candidate Steven Woolfe.

He wants to see the introduction of a “British working visa system” and have Parliament vote each year on a figure for net migration.

This is coming after so many Leave supporters expressed their anger against the PM’s statement last, which says that freedom of movement into the UK may continue after 2019 into an “implementation period” after leaving in 2019.

“It won’t mean pulling up the drawbridge as we will continue to encourage the best and the brightest to migrate and settle here.

“But by introducing strict controls, an annual cap and a five-year freeze on unskilled migrants, it will reduce net migration year on year, lessen the strain on our public services and help build a more cohesive society”.

He further said that only those who already have jobs in the UK with a salary of not less than £35,000, passed an English test, signed a five-year private health insurance contract, with prove of sufficient money in the bank should be granted visa.

He also included in his proposals a combined work visa and an Australian style points system that will help to determine the yearly immigration need for different parts and sectors in the UK.

Moreover, he advised the government not to give any special preference to EU nationals in their Brexit negotiation.

Suggesting that those living here in the UK should be given the right to stay, while all those who came into the country after Article 50 was triggered in March 29, should not be given same rights.

The report says there should be no cap on highly skilled workers, entrepreneurs, investors or those in the highly skilled top category, or restrictions on students. 

EU migrants to be sent back to their various countries after Brexit

EU migrants to be sent back to their various countries after Brexit

World Unknown   06:01

SHOCKER: As recent survey reveals that majority of Scottish people want all jobless EU nationals to go back to their various countries. A revelation which is in contrast with claims made by Nicola Sturgeon, saying that Scotland is open to all foreigners, more so, EU nationals irrespective of status.

The opinion poll was spear headed by Mev Brown, a Leave campaigner in the run up to the referendum, shows that about 45% of the sampled population agreed that jobless EU nationals who had not gone back to work for six months plus should be sent back to their own country. While 30% are of the opinion that those who have been jobless for a long term should be made to apply for a visa, with the other 25% saying, they should be given indefinite leave to remain.

Further, the poll conducted by BMG reveals that 46% are of the opinion that EU migrants who are homeless or living in temporary accommodation should be shown the way out of the country, post-Brexit. While 28% think they should have to apply for a visa, and the remaining 27% saying they should be given the right to remain.

In a similar vein, the poll reveals that 81% want all convicted criminals from the EU to be sent back to their own countries.

On the other hand, 46% want all EU citizens in full or part time work and claiming in-work benefits to be given the right to remain indefinitely. While 42% still want them to apply for visa to enable them stay in Scotland after Brexit and 12% believe they should return home.

Overwhelmingly, the largest vote of confidence was given to EU migrants in full or part time work who are not claiming any benefits, with 71% backing them to stay. Though a further 26% believe this group should have to apply for a visa, while only two per cent think they should be asked to leave Scotland.

From the result of the survey, it was also shown that more women are wanting EU nationals to leave Scotland and apply for a visa from their country than their male counterparts.

In the months since the vote to leave the EU, the SNP has repeatedly attempted to make political capital out of the uncertain status of 173,000 EU citizens in Scotland.

Even though EU migrants are more likely to have a job than British citizens, statistics demonstes that around 25% cent are not in work - which would translate to about 43,500 people north of the Border.

Mr Brown, former chief spokesman for Brexit campaign group Business for Britain in Scotland, said: “The polling data very much reflects the conversations I had during the Brexit campaign.

"Scots clearly want an immigration policy where the best interests of the country determines who is allowed to stay and who can come into the country after Brexit.

"In short, Scots do not support the SNP's soft touch, open door, 'free for all' immigration policy.

Indeed, the findings show how sophisticated Scots voters are.

"There is a clear recognition of the contribution foreign workers make to the Scottish economy and that foreign workers are welcome in Scotland.

"However, when looking at long term benefit claimants, that support falls significantly. Forty five percent of Scots think long term benefit claimants should be sent home when we leave the EU.

"The fact is, given the current jobs market, there is little justification for any foreign worker being unemployed for that length of time.

"These findings show that voters know that the welfare state is under enormous financial pressures.

"The data shows that Scots voters have broadly the same view towards EU homeless citizens. Perhaps it would be more appropriate for their own government to provide assistance?

"When you look at EU citizens that are convicted criminals, Scots voters are sending the SNP a message – send them home, a view shared with the large majority of SNP and Green voters.

"The SNP's 'soft touch' immigration policy is completely at odds with the views of Scottish voters."

Few night ago, the Scottish Government said EU national were "greatly valued" around the nation.

On the other hand, a spokesman added: "By far the biggest threat to Scotland’s economy is a hard Brexit, which threatens to cost our economy around £11 billion a year by 2030, and cost the country 80,000 jobs over a decade.

“The Scottish Government greatly values both the contribution that EU migrants bring to our economy and society, and the benefits of freedom of movement enjoyed by our own citizens, such as the right to free movement to live, study and work in all EU countries and benefit from their health care and social security systems.

“We want EU nationals in Scotland to feel settled and secure and to continue to make a strong contributions to our country. We continue to urge the UK Government to provide assurances on the status as soon as possible in the forthcoming negotiations with the EU."

Scotland First Minister Nicola Sturgeon rules out quick election in order to achieve her independence bid

Scotland First Minister Nicola Sturgeon rules out quick election in order to achieve her independence bid

World Unknown   20:29

In order to ensure her independence referendum becomes a reality, Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has put aside any plan for a snap election.

The First Minister also stated that despite the rejection of a second indyref by the UK government, she will not engage in any legal battle with the government over the matter.

On the other hand, Theresa May has said it over and over that she will work out the best possible deal that will be okay for the whole of the UK during the Brexit negotiations, in order to deliver the democratic will of the British people. And that the proposed autumn 2018 to spring 2019 by Sturgeon would not be allowed.

Concerning any likely legal action or a snap election, Sturgeon stated that: “These are not the kinds of things I am thinking of.

“I’ve got a responsibility to lead the country.

“I was elected as first minister less than a year ago. I’ve got a responsibility to lead the country.

“We are very focused on getting growth in our economy and transforming education.

“These are things that continue to be my priorities - these sort of scenarios that are put to me are not the ones I am thinking (of), but I do have an idea of how I progress the will of parliament.”

She hit out at the stance being taken by Mrs May and said Scotland should have the chance to give its voice in a referendum vote.

Ms Sturgeon said: “I’m absolutely clear that the position of Theresa May, I just don’t think, is politically sustainable.

“If the Scottish Parliament is of the position, as it is because it has voted in this way, that Scotland should be given a choice - not now, but when the time is right, when there is clarity about Brexit and obviously when there is clarity also about independence - that we should have a choice about our future.

Security guards in one of UK’s oldest hospital ordered never to wear Union flag badges on their uniform, following a complaint from a member of the public

Security guards in one of UK’s oldest hospital ordered never to wear Union flag badges on their uniform, following a complaint from a member of the public

World Unknown   07:38

Anger as one of Britain’s oldest hospitals orders its staff not to wear Union Jack badges on their stab proof vests any more.

This ban comes after a complaint was lodged by a member of the public, after which 12 employees of the Bristol Royal Infirmary (BRI) were instructed in an email instructed them not to wear the flags on their uniforms again.

Around half of the hospital’s security staff had been wearing Velcro Union Jack badges for the past two months, according to an insider at the hospital.

According to a source: “After a complaint from a member of the general public you are to remove the Union Jacks from stab vests.”

The banning of the badges, which are smaller than a credit card, has upset the security guards, according to a hospital worker.

The member of staff, who did not want to be named, said: “The badges have been a recent thing. The security guards got new stab vests that had Velcro on them and so decided to get the badges.

“It is an insult to the British people that they are having to be taken off.

“All the security staff are upset about it and cannot quite believe there has been a complaint.

“The staff are doing their best for everyone in the hospital, trying to keep people safe and a complaint like this is made.

“Personally I find it offensive that someone is offended that much by the Union Jack.”

It was confirmed by spokesman for University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust that staff were told to remove the flag from their uniforms after a complaint.

He said: “We were contacted recently by a member of the public who saw security officers at the Bristol Royal Infirmary wearing Union Jack flag patches on their uniforms.

"The member of the public commended the security staff on how well they dealt with a difficult incident and asked about a union jack patch that they had on their uniforms as they had not seen it before on an NHS uniform.

“Our trust policy says that uniforms cannot be altered or personalised and that only professional badge adornments are permitted.

"Security staff were therefore reminded of this and asked to remove any non-authorised badges or symbols from their uniforms.

"We also shared with them compliment from the member of public.”

Nicola Sturgeon’s independence referendum drive slammed as experts say Scotland is on the edge of economic recession

Nicola Sturgeon’s independence referendum drive slammed as experts say Scotland is on the edge of economic recession

World Unknown   06:24

Nicola Sturgeon’s continuous clamour for a second independence referendum may hit a brick wall, due to the present state of the Scottish economy as being reported.

It is officially reported that the last quarter of 2016 saw contraction in Scotland, while the rest of the UK grew. Thus, some are of the opinion that Scotland has shrunk and is staggering on the edge of recession. And that a negative figure in the first quarter of 2017 would indicate that the region is leaped into economic recession.

Independent analyst have also criticised the SNP government for pushing the blame on the outcome of Brexit, saying other parts of the UK experienced growth within same period.

Economic experts have warned that if the trend continues, the government may lose about £1.6 billion revenue from tax receipts for within the next five years.

The sad news concerning Scotland’s economy is coming amid Sturgeon’s struggle for another indyref, even after UK ministers indicated that such would not be allowed until 2022 at the earliest.

Scottish Tory finance spokesperson Murdo Fraser cautioned the country was “facing a crisis and insisted Ms Sturgeon “must take responsibility for this mess”.

He further said: “She has made Scotland the highest-taxed part of the UK and created more instability and uncertainty with her threat of a second referendum. Now we see the real-life impact of her mismanagement.

“More than ever, Scotland needs a First Minister in charge who gets back to her desk, ends her obsession with a second referendum and focuses on her day job.”

From the latest data, it can be seen that the economic output of Scotland fell by 0.2% in the last quarter in 2016- which experts say is the first decline since the third quarter of 2015. This is in contrast with the rest of the UK which grew by 0.7% during the same period.

In a similar vein, between January to December last year, Scotland’s economy grew only by 0.4%, which is behind 1.8% across the whole of the UK.

But compared to the fourth quarter of 2015, Scottish output was flat (0.0 per cent change).

Meanwhile, the next set of data due to be made public in July will determine if Scotland is officially in recession or not.

Finance Secretary Derek Mackay claimed the statistics reflect the “economic reality of the Brexit vote”.

He said: “We have already seen significantly lower consumer confidence in Scotland since the vote last summer.

“Now we see that feeding through into our growth figures and all of this is before the UK actually leaves the EU.”

On the other hand Professor Graeme Roy, director of the Fraser of Allander Institute at the University of Strathclyde, said: “At a time when the UK economy grew at 1.8 per cent over the same period, this is a serious cause for concern.

“With any Brexit uncertainty affecting the UK as well, it’s hard to argue that Scotland’s relatively weaker performance can be explained by the outcome of the EU referendum.”

Also speaking, economist John McLaren estimate income tax revenues will be between £369 million and £1.6 billion lower over the next five years if Scotland’s economy continues to lag behind the rest of the UK at rates of 0.5 per cent or 1 per cent, respectively.

Katie Hopkins issues strong warning to Brussels not to take threaten Britain again with divorce bill

Katie Hopkins issues strong warning to Brussels not to take threaten Britain again with divorce bill

World Unknown   08:24

At least for once, after several threats planned to be unleashed against Britain, by the EU for its decision to leave the EU. A stark warning has also been given to the leadership of the EU by Katie Hopkins and condemned the purported huge divorce gill issued against the UK.

Hopkins stated that: “I think we should be going at this hard, that we should be having a firm line.

“I don’t see why we should be paying any kind of divorce bill before we’ve got our deal on the table, I don’t see why we should be handing over a penny until we have our trade terms agreed.

“I think it’s time the EU realised we’ve left them. We left. So if you noticed Juncker, that door which is shut, that was us leaving.

"So you’re now talking to a door that’s closed in your face hunny bun.”

According the drafted document released by the EU last Friday, it was discovered how Brussels is seeking to permit Spain a veto over any form of agreement in the future between Britain and the UK that has anything to do with Gilbraltar.

Having none of it, Hopkins fumed: “You want to threaten us?

“You want to tell us you’re going to take Gibraltar? No sunshine, look at the door because it’s shut because we left.

"We don’t want to be part of you any more, we don’t want to pay your enormous pension deficit."

The LBC host also stressed that: “What we want to do is look after our own people, we want to provide social care for our elderly, provide homes for our own old people!”

As the EU’s plan for Gibraltar emerged fury erupted and the territory’s Chief Minister, Fabian Picardo, condemned the move as he said Spain was “obsession” with the Rock and would do anything to secure their “medieval and rancid” claim.

British politicians also hit out against the moved as the Foreign Secretary declared the Rock will not be “bargained away” during Brexit talks.

Boris Johnson said: “Gibraltar is not for sale. Gibraltar cannot be traded. Gibraltar will not be bargained away.

“The policy of the Government remains fixed and firm. The sovereignty of Gibraltar cannot be changed without the express consent of the UK and the people of Gibraltar.”

Mr Johnson hailed the territory’s “vibrant business centre” and claimed its harbour remains a “key Nato asset” due to its capability to harbour nuclear submarines.

Meanwhile, Sir Michael Fallon pledged to protect" Gibraltar "all the way" after Spain was given a veto over any future deal between the UK and the bloc which involves the territory.

Still on the BBC's Andrew Marr show, the Defence Secretary said: "The people of Gibraltar have made it clear that they don't want to live under the sovereignty of Spain. Gibraltar is going to be protected all the way."

Mr Fallon’s vow came as Lord Howard told Sky News' Sophy Ridge on Sunday there was no doubt Theresa May’s Government would stand by the British territory.

The former Conservative Party leader said: "There is no question whatever that our Government will stand by Gibraltar.

"Thirty-five years ago this week another woman Prime Minister sent a task force halfway across the world to defend the freedom of another small group of British people against another Spanish-speaking country.

"I am absolutely certain our current Prime Minister will show the same resolve in standing by the people of Gibraltar."

This is how new laws taking effect from April 2017 will affect families and businesses.

This is how new laws taking effect from April 2017 will affect families and businesses.

World Unknown   06:29

As the new tax year rolls in, the British government has come up with several new policies that could have both positive and negative impacts on different individuals and organisations.

So many people are going to be affected by the new law which has to do with their household income and cost of living.

Below are some of the various new legislations:

Rise in minimum wage is one that almost all workers in the UK had always looked forward to see, as the country’s national minimum wage is billed to be increased to £7.50 per hour. This is seen in deferent quarters as a means of achieving the government’s desire to increase minimum wage to £9 per hour by 2020.

Also from April 2017, only cars which are 100% electric with zero-emission will be given road tax exemption, in order words all those wo bought low-emission vehicles with aim of avoiding the said tax may be disappointed with the new rule in place.

Starting from April sixth, consumers could also earn up to £500 tax-free allowance for employer-funded pension advice. When this is joint together with the Pensions Advice Allowance, , people could as well get up to £1,000 worth of advice.

Good news for nursing mummies and daddies as well, with the new increase of the weekly statutory maternity, paternity, adoption and shared parental pay goes up to £140.98, while statutory sick pay will also be increased to £89.35.

Another pay that will see a rise, is the statutory redundancy payments which is going to now be £489, which means a £10 rise, while the highest redundancy pay will also rise from £14,370 to £14,670.

Sad news for some companies as the government introduces a new levy on businesses to fund an immigration skills charge which takes effect from April. A policy which will help the government to raise about £3bn annually  from firms with a salary bill of over £3 million per year, in order not to let it affect smaller businesses.

Such monies when collected will be channelled to any business that shows the willingness offer apprenticeships and on-the-job training for over 16s, in order to make it easier to get paid while learning a new skill this year.

The government is also coming up with a new immigration skill charge from April 6, as a means to "reduce Britain’s reliance on migrant workers".  This fee will be imposed on firms that engages the services of migrant workers in skilled roles which will cost big businesses £1,000 annually, while charities and small establishments will be charged at the rate of £360.

Also coming into effect from April 28 is the new Tax-Free Childcare plan for parents of children within the age bracket of less than two years.

The Government also said of its readiness to cut childcare costs for working families by up to £2,000 per child, or £4,000 for disabled children annually. A scheme, which has the possibilities of being rolled out to children below 12, or under 17 for young people who have disabilities.

Also starting from September, parents who have 3 and 4 year olds in England could also be allowed to apply for a 30 hours’ free childcare offer worth about £5,000. 

Some EU laws that may be affected by the Great Repeal Bill

Some EU laws that may be affected by the Great Repeal Bill

World Unknown   10:01

Analysts have predicted that the Great Repeal Bill may have certain laws affected which may range from human rights to fish via vacuum cleaners. Though most of these rules are known to be of best practice, some are also said to be vague.

Free movement of labour

The Australian-style points system of immigration is like to be adopted here in the UK, where all migrants would be given a level playing ground, and possibly refused entry into the selectively.

The Human Rights Act

Because foreign criminals usually take undue advantage of the loopholes in the law to avoid being deported, a new law that will protect lives and properties will replaced by a British Bill of Rights.

Toasters, kettles and vacuum cleaners

According to EU laws made in 2013, it is demanded that vacuum cleaners make resourceful use of electricity, which the EU is also planning to extend to kettles, hair dryers, toasters etc.

But the British Parliament will have the power to decide what kind of item to buy.

The tampon tax

This also will be replaced with a new policy that would be introduced by the treasury.

One of the issue with this aspect was the argument made concerning VAT on sanitary goods, that was tagged the tampon tax.

Working Time Directive

This aspect is one that somehow protects the rights of workers, as the current EU does not allow employers to force anyone to work for more than 48 hours per week. But after the exit is concluded, pressure may be mounted on the government to bring this law to an end.

Fishing

This is one aspect of the law that the likes of Boris Johnson took advantage of during the referendum campaign.

Therefore, once officially out of the EU this would bring some kind of good news to the British Fishing industry.

Temporary Agency Workers Directive

According to this law, anyone who is being hired by agencies will have same rights and pay, as every other worker in the same business engaged to do the same work.

Though, some said eradicating such policy may become unacceptable.

Renewables Directive

Reckoned by some to be the single most expensive piece of Brussels-imposed legislation, it sets targets for combating climate change, such as achieving a 20% share of energy from renewable sources by 2020, at a reputed cost of £4.7bn a year. Brexiteers tend to be sceptical about climate change, so may see this as a useful way to save money.

Going bananas

At the other end of the seriousness scale are EU rules on wonky bananas. They are not banned, but they are classified by quality and shape. Class 1 bananas can have "slight defects of shape" and Class 2 bananas full-on "defects of shape".

Myths about the regulations became a lightning rod for all who despair at the pointlessness of Brussels and its ideas.

Members of Scottish Parliament vote in support for another indyref

Members of Scottish Parliament vote in support for another indyref

World Unknown   07:57

Despite the Prime Minister’s threat to block another Scottish independence referendum, the Scottish Parliament yesterday gave their unflinching support to Nicola Sturgeon the First Minister as she calls for a second referendum.

The MSPs voted 69 to 59 in support of Sturgeon’s plan to request for authorisation from the entire government of the United Kingdom for she to call for another referendum between autumn next year and spring 2019.

Commenting after the vote, Ms Sturgeon said the referendum would be "first and foremost, about giving the people of Scotland a choice on this country's future".

Meanwhile, a UK Government spokeswoman echoed this, saying they would "not be entering into negotiations on the Scottish Government's proposal".

She added: "At this point, all our focus should be on our negotiations with the European Union, making sure we get the right deal for the whole of the UK.

"It would be unfair to the people of Scotland to ask them to make a crucial decision without the necessary information about our future relationship with Europe, or what an independent Scotland would look like."

However Ms Sturgeon said the MSPs' vote "must now be respected".

She added: "The mandate for a referendum is beyond question and it would be democratically indefensible - and utterly unsustainable - to attempt to stand in the way of it."

According to a correspondent from Sky News, there were cheers from inside Holyrood and from a small crowd of independence supporters positioned outside the building as the result of the vote was announced.

He added: "The problem for Nicola Sturgeon is that (independence supporters) don't number more than 50% of the Scottish population, according to the opinion polls.

"There is still a firm majority in favour of sustaining or retaining the union and that is her challenge now - to turn over that deficit in public support."

Thus, Ms Sturgeon will now write a letter to Mrs May "later this week" with her Section 30 request, a delay that Matthews said was likely due to "politics and PR".

"I think in terms of PR in political campaigning, that letter would have been lost in the coverage and fuss surrounding the triggering of Article 50," he said.

Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson said the decision to go ahead with another vote was "deeply regrettable", while Scottish Labour leader Kezia Dugdale said there was no evidence that Scots want another referendum.

She said: "We have no idea what Brexit looks like, or how it will impact our economy and families in Scotland."

Ross Greer, the Scottish Greens' external affairs spokesman, said: "It should be our responsibility, as those elected by the people of Scotland, to fight for their right to choose their own future."

Finally! Article 50 letter signed by Theresa May

Finally! Article 50 letter signed by Theresa May

World Unknown   07:20

All now set for the official departure of the United Kingdom to say farewell to the European Union after over four decades of cordial relationship in the continent.

About nine months after the British people went to the poll to decide their future and take full control of their border, law, economy, to mention but a few, today the Prime Minister will trigger the long waited Article 50 by officially notifying Brussels.

While addressing MPs in the House of Commons, the PM will also make her statement concerning getting the right deal for the British people and all EU nationals residing in the United Kingdom.

"We are one great union of people and nations with a proud history and a bright future," she will say.

"And, now that the decision has been made to leave the EU, it is time to come together."

Despite the fact that the PM will approach the Article 50 triggering in a strictly business-like manner, lot of pro-Brexit MPs will be in a celebration mood. Even after being dissuaded from organising Article 50 parties, report has it that so many of the are putting plans to disregard the plea to start the celebration once the PM’s question time is over.

In her Commons statement, the PM will say: "When I sit around the negotiating table in the months ahead, I will represent every person in the whole United Kingdom - young and old, rich and poor, city, town, and country and all the villages and hamlets in between."

Also, meaningfully, after strong pressure from MPs in recent months, she will add: "And yes, those EU nationals who have made this country their home."

Concerning Brexit negotiations, she will pledge: "It is my fierce determination to get the right deal for every single person in this country.

"For, as we face the opportunities ahead of us on this momentous journey, our shared values, interests and ambitions can - and must - bring us together.

"We all want to see a Britain that is stronger than it is today. We all want a country that is fairer so that everyone has the chance to succeed.

"We all want a nation that is safe and secure for our children and grandchildren. We all want to live in a truly global Britain that gets out and builds relationships with old friends and new allies around the world.

"These are the ambitions of this Government's Plan for Britain. Ambitions that unite us, so that we are no longer defined by the vote we cast, but by our determination to make a success of the result."

Meanwhile, Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, who will respond to the PM's speech, said ahead of the triggering of Article 50 that his party would hold the Government to account all the way.

"The Conservatives want to use Brexit to turn our country into a low wage tax haven," he claimed.

"Labour is determined to ensure we can rebuild and transform Britain, so no one and no community is left behind.

"It will be a national failure of historic proportions if the Prime Minister comes back from Brussels without having secured protection for jobs and living standards.

"That's why Labour has set the clear priorities of full access to the European market, rights at work and environmental protection. And we will hold the Government to account every step of the way."

Similarly, UKIP leader Paul Nuttall claimed his party would be "the guard dogs of Brexit, holding the Government's feet to the fire" and he warned there must be "no backsliding".

"Today the Government will finally act on the historic decision of the people of this country to leave the European Union," he said. "Finally, nine months after our vote, the UK will formally inform the EU that we are leaving.

"UKIP is delighted that this is eventually happening. Twenty-four years ago this party was formed to make this a reality, so it would be churlish to complain.

"We have been ignored, dismissed insulted and abused, but through determination and with good humour we fought on and we have succeeded."

On the other hand Mr Nuttall claimed: "The nine months' delay has, of course, cost the taxpayer additional billions, and has permitted those who would block the democratic will of the people to do all they can to spread discord, but we are here now.

"While negotiations continue we will continue to be the 'guard dogs of Brexit', holding the Government's feet to the fire at home and our MEPs will be working to ensure our friends on the continent do not pull any fast ones.

"We will provide the political threat to ensure no backsliding takes place and ensure that Brexit does indeed mean 'Exit'.

"But today, for now, we wish the Government and the Prime Minister well.

"If they fail in this historic task, 17 million people are ready to act."

Nicola Sturgeon says, Theresa May's comment confirms her referendum plans

Nicola Sturgeon says, Theresa May's comment confirms her referendum plans

World Unknown   08:45

Nicola Sturgeon expresses optimism that another independence referendum is highly likely with the next 18 to 24 months after her meeting with the British Prime Minister Theresa May.

Theresa May has welcomed the UK as an "unstoppable force" without limits while Nicola Sturgeon continues to pressure her for a second Scottish independence vote by spring 2019.

The Scottish Parliament in Holyrood is expected on Tuesday (today) to back Ms Sturgeon's call for a new referendum, and on the other hand on Wednesday Mrs May will trigger Article 50 to begin the formal process for leaving the EU.

The PM while addressing staff at the Department for International Development that Brexit did not mean "Britain steps back from the world".

"UK Aid is a badge of hope for so many around the world," she said at the East Kilbride base.

"And it says this: That when this great union of nations, England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, sets its mind on something and works together with determination, we are an unstoppable force.

"That is why the plan for Britain I have set out... has as its heart one over-arching goal: To build a more united nation.

"Because I believe when we work together, there is no limit to what we can do."

Mrs May later met the First Minister at a Glasgow hotel, after turning down the offer to have it in a nearby Scottish government building.

Ms Sturgeon described the talks as "reasonably cordial" and "business-like" however, she said the PM had not offered any concessions or guarantees to try to stave off another vote.

"I had been under the impression, given weekend media reports, that we may be about to get some kind of offer around powers for the Scottish government, but nothing of that nature emerged," said Ms Sturgeon.

"No real guarantee that powers in currently devolved areas wouldn't be centralised and no real willingness to discuss powers beyond that."

She also insisted her hope for another vote in 18 months to two years' time was realistic because the PM had told her the terms of a Brexit deal should be clear by then.

Ms Sturgeon told Sky: "She's very clear that she thinks the terms of Brexit, both the exit terms and the details of the future relationship - the future trading agreement between the UK and the EU - the detail of that will be clear before the UK exits.

"When I put it to her that would be in 18 months to two years' time she said 'yes' that was her expectation.

"That is the timescale in which I have said the people of Scotland should have the ability to make an informed choice about their future."

Mrs May, however, has said she is sticking to her belief that such a time frame would be "unfair" on people in Scotland because not all the facts about a Brexit deal would be known.

Mass protest in Central London against Brexit as May triggers Article 50 on Wednesday

Mass protest in Central London against Brexit as May triggers Article 50 on Wednesday

World Unknown   06:17

Just few days before triggering of Article 50 that will usher the UK’s exit out of the European Union, several demonstrators numbering tens of thousands have come together to stage an anti-Brexit protest in central London.

On getting to Parliament Square, the demonstrators observed some silence as a mark of respect for those who lost their lives during the terror attack in Westminster last Wednesday.

"Before we talk about Brexit, before we call on any of the speakers, we need to recognise that something really bad happened not far from here just the other day," said Alastair Campbell, the former Tony Blair spin doctor and Remain campaigner.

The protesters who were numbered between 25,000 to 100,000 demands that the UK should not exit the EU. Some were also seen being wrapped in the EU flag, while others had the EU’s golden stars designed on their faces. Some had the inscription "Better Together" and "Don't Brexit my future".

One of the protesters, German-Russian Katya, who attended with her British husband Daniel, expressed to Sky News: "I feel I'm part of this country and I want the multicultural tolerant country back that I've come to."

Katya also said, even in the impending Article 50 triggering, "We need to show the world that not everyone is behind the hard Brexit that the Government stands for."

On his part, her husband Daniel said the EU referendum had uncovered a side of the country he didn't recognise.

"It's not what I grew up with and it's not what most people in this country stand for - this intolerance and division".

In its place, he said, attending the march was a show of support for a Britain that can be "inclusive, tolerant and outward looking".

Despite the terror attack last Wednesday, organisers of the London march refused to call off the event after the, saying in a statement: "We will not be intimidated. We will stand in unity and solidarity.

"We will march on the heart of our democracy and reclaim our streets in honour and respect of those that fell."

INDEPENDENT BRITAIN: Great Repeal Bill to transfer powers from Brussels to Parliament

INDEPENDENT BRITAIN: Great Repeal Bill to transfer powers from Brussels to Parliament

World Unknown   06:49

Strong indication has emerged that once Article 50 is triggered this week Wednesday the United Kingdom will start the process of taking back full control of its laws from the hands of Brussels.

A White Paper on the Great Repeal Bill would be published by the British Government within 24 hours that will outline the processes needed to bring to an end the supremacy of EU law over the UK, thus transferring sovereignty and independency from Brussels.

It will lay out how control will be returned to Parliament, introducing temporary new powers to “correct the statute book to ensure a smooth and orderly exit”.

According to a source from the Government: “Next week will mark a defining moment in this country’s history, when the Prime Minister invokes Article 50 and opens the way for formal negotiations to leave the EU and build a truly global Britain. But a strong, sovereign country needs control of its own laws. That, more than anything else, was what drove the referendum result – a desire for the country to be in control of its own destiny.

“So next week we will get on with the job and set out the steps we will take to ensure control of our laws lies in London, Edinburgh, Cardiff and Belfast.”

It was also added that: “This momentum demonstrates the Government’s commitment to getting on with delivering a smooth and orderly EU exit.”

The source said: “A Great Repeal Bill will formally remove it from the statute book on exit day and make the UK a sovereign and independent country once again.”

It means on the day of Brexit all European laws will be simultaneously converted into domestic law, which MPs can then amend, repeal or improve after appropriate parliamentary debate and scrutiny.

“This will give businesses and workers maximum possible certainty as the UK leaves the European Union and existing workers’ legal rights will continue to be guaranteed in law,” the source said.

“It will also help ensure a smooth and orderly exit from the EU.”

SCOTLAND: Holyrood debates to allow Sturgeon call for another indyref

SCOTLAND: Holyrood debates to allow Sturgeon call for another indyref

World Unknown   08:37

Scotland’s First Minister is anticipated to give some legal backings to her independent referendum campaign through the Scottish Parliament by seeking their support.

During the deliberation, will urge MSP to support her demand to Westminster for the activation of a Section 30 order, which will empower her to lawfully go on with a referendum.

Despite all the efforts being put in place by the First Minister to secure Scotland’s future, MSP from the Conservative, Labour and Liberal Democrats have vowed to block any move to take Scotland out of the rest of the UK.

Conversely, the pro-independence Scottish Greens, who have six MSPs, are anticipated to give the First Minister the backing she needs for her motion to be passed after the conclusion of a two-day debate this on Wednesday.

Making her case for a new vote on Wednesday, Ms Sturgeon told the Scottish Parliament there was an "unquestionable democratic mandate for an independence referendum".

She said the UK Government would be "wrong and unfair" to stand in the way of Scotland "even having a choice", adding that Theresa May should set out a timetable for a referendum if she does not agree with holding it before spring 2019.

Ms Sturgeon added: "The voice of this parliament has been ignored at every step of the way and far from any indication of new powers, we now face the prospect of the UK Government using Brexit to reserve for itself powers in areas that are currently devolved to this parliament."

All through a powerfully verbalized debate, Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson said there was no provision in Scotland for a second referendum and blamed the SNP of trying to "bulldozer" the vote through.

She said: "The people of Scotland don't want this and it won't wash to have a First Minister standing there, washing her hands, saying 'It's not me that's dragging us there, it's with a heavy heart, a big Tory did this and ran away'.

"It won't do, First Minister, take responsibility."

Scottish Labour leader Kezia Dugdale said that for Ms Sturgeon "leaving the UK is the only thing that matters".

She added: "It isn't improving education in Scotland. It isn't lifting children out of poverty.

"It's independence. That will always come first and it always has."

Her Majesty’s 2017 speech may empower Theresa May to impose tariff on imports from EU nations

Her Majesty’s 2017 speech may empower Theresa May to impose tariff on imports from EU nations

World Unknown   08:27

By the time Her Majesty makes her 2017 speech, the Prime Minister’s stance on hard Brexit may garner more boost. Reason being that, the PM is being predicted to impose tariffs on EU imports which may be included in the Queens Speech.

The indirect threat of the PM of her plan to walk away from negotiations will be further strengthened based on her earlier claim that “no deal is better than a bad deal” for Britain.

The plan to take full control of trade deals is in contrast with what is obtainable under EU law, trade deals were negotiated by Brussels on behalf of all member countries.

Dr Liam Fox, International Trade Secretary, has informed MPs that the Queen’s speech will also address trade deals which is due in the month of May.

After Her Majesty finishes the announcement, it will take up to a year for the bill to be passed into law.

A Government source hinted that it will “come as no surprise” a trade bill will be part of the Government “Brexit Queen’s Speech”.

A Whitehall source added: “There are a number of decisions that need to be taken, but all options are still being considered.”