Changes to deal by MPs ‘may be too late’

BRITAIN MAY not have time to negotiate a new deal if MPs decide to amend any Brexit agreement, a senior minister has suggested.

Commons Leader Andrea Leadsom said the Government would “take action” on any amendments to the Brexit deal motion approved by MPs but added that it may not be possible for ministers to “proceed on the basis of an amended vote”.

Her remarks came after Conservative former cabinet Minister Ken Clarke warned the Government against offering MPs the choice of deal or no deal.

Mrs Leadsom also announced the Commons business following next week’s short November recess, with no further Brexit legislation listed but with time scheduled for a debate on the 70th birthday of the Prince of Wales.

At Business questions, Mr Clarke said Mrs Leadsom had confirmed a “meaningful vote” in response to questions from SNP Commons leader Pete Wishart.

She replied: “The facts of the case are that the Government will be bringing forward a vote on the deal that the Government has negotiated. It will be an amendable motion of the House, and, should the House amend that motion, then the Government would take action on those amendments.

“However, I must point out to the House again that, having negotiated a particular deal with the European Union, it may not be possible for the Government to proceed on the basis of an amended vote. While this House will be asked to decide whether it agrees for the Government to negotiate on the basis of the agreed deal or not will be a matter for this House.”