Scots Tories break with colleagues to tell May they won’t back her deal

Two Scottish Conservative MPS have said they oppose Theresa May’s Brexit deal, breaking with colleagues who have backed the government. Borders MP John Lamont and Moray MP Douglas Ross both said they would vote against the deal, with Mr Lamont warning it would put the Union at risk.

Mr Ross told Theresa May in the Commons he could not support her, as she took questions after revealing a vote expected today would not take place. Mr Lamont, seen as a loyal backbencher, served as a whip in the Scottish Par- 0 John Lamont said he would vote no to the deal

liament before being elected to Westminster. He also helped run Ruth Davidson’s leadership campaign.

In a statement, he said the deal “could mean that we retain some of the worst things about EU member- ship without being able to take advantage of the opportunities of Brexit”.

“The UK could end up in an uncomfortable half-way house - having to follow EU rules without any influence or say over them,” he said. “I have come to the conclusion that on balance, these are not risks I am prepared to take.” Mr Lamont added: “The clear message that I have received from my constituents was that this agreement does not satisfy many.”

One other Scottish Tory MP, Ross Thomson, has already said he opposes the deal, while colleagues Kirstene Hair and Alister Jack confirmed yesterday they would vote for it.