Remain talks to create ‘toxic trauma’

Boris Johnson has warned a second Brexit referendum will unleash “toxic trauma” on the UK as it emerged talks are now under way for a “proremain alliance” in key seats. The Liberal Democrats, Plaid Cymru and the Greens are to work together to boost the chances of electing antibrexit MPS. It would see two of the three parties stand aside in up to 60 seats to favour the one with the best chance of victory. Lib Dem leader Jo Swinson said “the specifics” would be set out later this week.

“It’s well understood that these discussions have been taking place,” she said yesterday.

“I think it’s fair to say that, in the vast majority of constituencies, the party of Remain that is going to be best placed to win that seat will be the Liberal Democrats.” The Lib Dems have already agreed to stand aside for the Greens in the Isle of Wight. They are also expected to do so in Brighton Pavilion – the seat held by the Greens’ Caroline Lucas – and in Broxtowe to help Anna Soubry, the former Tory minister who is leader of the Independent Group for Change. The moves are reportedly being coordinated by a group called Unite to Remain, which is backed by the millionaire Julian Dunkerton, co-founder of the clothing company Superdry. But Mr Johnson insisted a second EU referendum would result in more “toxic, tedious trauma” for the country.

“What happens if they vote for Remain? People will say it’s one all,” he said. “What happens if they vote, as it were, for Leave? What would Jeremy Corbyn do then? Resign?

“The whole thing is totally chaotic and unnecessary. What we need to do now is get Brexit over the line.”