MPs plot to chuck May over Chequers

THERESA May’s enemies within her own party have begun openly plotting how to topple her.

About 50 hard Brexiteers discussed plans to oust the Tory leader, with reports suggesting a coup could be launched within days.

It comes amid mounting anger among party backbenchers and activists at the Prime Minister’s softBrexit Chequers plan.

An MP at the meeting reportedly said: “Chequers is more unpopular than the Poll Tax. We’re now in a position that if she won’t chuck Chequers then I’m afraid the party will chuck her.”

Cabinet Ministers will today thrash out no-deal contingency plans.

The Brexit Department will publish documents on the potential impacts on areas such as mobile phone roaming charges and vehicle checks. Brexit Secretary Dominic Raab last night said it was “part of our sensible approach to preparing for all outcomes”. It follows Tuesday’s meeting of the Tories’ hard-Brexit European Research Group. One MP present said in a text to ITV: “Virtually the only topic of conversation for 40/50 mins was how best do we get rid of her?” But ERG leader Jacob ReesMogg said: “The policy needs to change, not the person.” And ex-Brexit Secretary David Davis, who quit over Chequers, said Mrs May “is a very good Prime Minister”. A No10 source said the PM would fight a no-confidence vote, adding: “We are focused on taking forward the Chequers plan because we believe it delivers on the result of the referendum.” A contest will be triggered if 48 Tory MPs write to the 1922 Committee’s chair. An estimated 35 already have.