Minister resigns over ‘irresponsible’ plan

Theresa May has suffered a ministerial resignation ahead of crunch Commons votes on Brexit, with Phillip Lee hitting out at the government’s “irresponsible” approach.

Remain-supporting Dr Lee quit as justice minister, saying he could not support “how our country’s exit from the EU looks set to be delivered”.

He said his main objection to government policy was over the “wish to limit Parliament’s role in contributing to the final outcome”.

Dr Lee also called for the government’s final proposals to be put to the public in a second referendum.

“When the government is able to set out an achievable, clearly defined path, one that has been properly considered, whose implications have been foreseen, and that is rooted in reality and evidence, not dreams and dogma, it should go to the people, once again, to seek their confirmation,” he wrote.

The issue of a “meaningful vote” is set to be a flashpoint in the Commons, with ministers seeking to overturn a Lords amendment which would give Parliament extensive powers to direct ministers how to proceed if a deal with Brussels is rejected by MPs.