Libdems push for Brexit public inquiry

THE Liberal Democrats will attempt to get a public inquiry into Brexit when key legislation returns to Parliament.

Sir Ed Davey, the party’s acting co-leader, said an investigation is necessary after “countless lies” from Boris Johnson and others in the run-up to the EU referendum.

The Libdems will table an amendment to the Prime Minister’s Withdrawal Agreement

Bill (WAB) stating that an inquiry must be held within six months of the legislation being passed.

The decision to hold the 2016 referendum, the financing and conduct of campaigners and the Government’s move to invoke Article 50 triggering the Brexit countdown would be included within its scope.

So too would ministers’ negotiating strategy with the EU, the decision to end free movement of people between the UK and the bloc and the Government’s refusal to hold another referendum.

But any move to get the investigation under the Inquiries Act 2005 in a Commons vote is likely to fail due to the PM securing an 80-strong majority in the General Election.

Sir Ed, the MP for Kingston and Surbiton, said: “Countless lies by our Prime Minister, others in the Tory Party and beyond, means questions must be asked about the result of the referendum in 2016.

“The past three years have only gone to show how much deceit was used during the campaign, as well as how determined the Conservative Government is to hide the true impact of what they’re trying to unleash.

“We must address the decisions made around the referendum, but also the shambolic approach taken by the Conservatives in the years since.

“To truly understand the events leading up to Brexit, there must be a public inquiry.”

Also expected among Libdem amendments will be an attempt to get another referendum.