Minister admits uncertainty in UK vote

The UK’s Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Amber Rudd has conceded “anything could happen” if Prime Minister Theresa May fails to win next week’s historic Commons vote on her Brexit deal — including another referendum or a so-called Norway-plus deal.

The minister, who campaigned to remain during the European Union referendum, backed the prime minister’s deal, despite mounting opposition from more than 100 Conservative MPs who have vowed to vote against it.

However, she admitted that if the deal was voted down it could lead to a “people’s vote” or another exit strategy, including a Norway-plus option, which would involve staying in the European Economic Area (EEA).

She also rejected suggestions the premier would be forced to stand down if she loses Tuesday’s crucial Commons vote, saying there was “no question” of May quitting.

Rudd was speaking to BBC Radio 4’s Today programme after an interview with the Times, in which she said her preferred “plan B” would be to switch to the Norway-plus model.