Cross-party group of MPs plot Commons push for second Brexit referendum
2 min read
A cross-party group of MPs will attempt to force a second EU referendum by tabling a “killer” amendment to Theresa May’s Brexit deal in the Commons, it has been reported.
The move could enshrine a second Brexit vote on the Prime Minister’s deal with Brussels in law.
The push is being spearheaded by Tory MP Sarah Wollaston who is working with fellow Conservative Phillip Lee, Labour’s Paul Williams and the SNP’s Philippa Whitford.
The group believes that they have the support of over 100 MPs and are urging the Labour leadership to back the move.
A senior Labour figure told the Observer: “There are some supporters of a second referendum who think the main push should come later, amid the chaos that would ensue from May’s deal failing to get through parliament or a no-deal.
“But we believe a killer amendment like this could be our only chance. We cannot afford to miss it.”
The MPs, who have all worked in the NHS, are particularly concerned about the effect of Brexit could have on the health service.
Ms Wollaston told the paper: “Without a second referendum vote on the final deal there is no informed consent to Brexit.
“The consequences will last for generations. Valid consent requires the government to set out the final version of Brexit and allow people to weigh up the risks and benefits.
“Quite simply Brexit will be bad for health, science and the economy in ways that will touch all our lives.
“As a group of four current and former clinicians we feel that the principle of informed consent is as important when it comes to Brexit as it is to patients when weighing up the pros and cons of surgery.
“People must have the right to look at the final plans, the evidence about consequences and have the opportunity to change their minds.”
Mr Williams added: “Before politicians make the biggest leap that this country will make in all of our lifetimes, we should check with people to make sure this is really, really what they want to do. We now know so much more than we did in 2016.
“Companies are stopping investments in the UK. NHS staff are leaving because they don’t feel welcome. Medical research collaboration with Europe is ending.
“Our country will become poorer, have less influence and have less control with the type of Brexit deal that Theresa May is agreeing. Is this really a price worth paying?”
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