‘It’s too late for MPs to block no-deal’
REMAINER MPs have little chance of sabotaging a no- deal Brexit, according to analysis by respected constitutional experts.
Boris Johnson is unlikely to be able to secure a new agreement from Brussels and push it through Parliament by October 31, the Institute for Government (IFG) said.
But MPs who want to stop Britain leaving on that date if a settlement has not been reached have virtually run out of time and options, said the think-tank. Joe Owen, IFG Brexit programme director, said: “Even if they [MPs] can assemble a majority for something, they may find few opportunities to make their move and time’s running out.”
Government control of Commons business means it would be difficult for MPs to repeat the process that led to a law being passed in March that required former prime minister Theresa May to seek an extension, claimed the IFG. The report also said that Parliament’s power over the Brexit process depended on specific clauses set out in the EU Withdrawal Act that no longer applied. It had required the Commons to endorse any deal in a “meaningful vote” or hold more votes if the Government wanted to leave without a deal. But the demand was tied to January 21, which has passed.
MPs could use opposition day debates or backbench business motions to express their opposition to a no-deal but the results would not be binding, it added. Remainers would still have the “nuclear option” of trying to pass a vote of no confidence in the Government.
If the Prime Minister loses he would have 14 days to win another confidence vote or for an alternative government to be formed.
If not there has to be general election.
The report said: “The Prime Minister could try to face down Parliament and trigger an election, but that prospect comes with a high risk of losing office.”
a