Let’s have People’s Vote on Brexit

TWO years ago notice was given to the European Union that we were withdrawing our membership. That comes into effect in March 2019.

I voted against giving notice as we had no idea of what sort of trade and customs deal we could make with the EU at that time.

Two years later we still have no idea and we are running out of time.

Whatever trade deal we get will be worse than the one we have.

In addition billions that could be spent on public services are being spent on preparing our regulations for Brexit.

Another £500 million was announced in the budget by the Chancellor.

Cash that could have been spent on our schools or on the police or on local council services instead of the administrative costs of Brexit. And at the end of it there could be no trade deal.

That would have very serious implications for our economy. Greater Manchester is one of the regions that could be hit hard.

With rising unemployment and less tax revenue there would be less money available for public services. This would affect the poorest and the neediest most.

Many people have contacted me locally to say that they would like to see the final deal put to a vote where people can decide whether what is actually on offer is acceptable to them with an option to vote to remain in the EU. I agree.

The facts are so far from the rhetoric and the lies about Brexit that there should be an opportunity for a final People’s Vote.

That was certainly the view of the estimated 700,000 who marched together with Stockport for Europe in London on October 20.