Dominic Raab seeks to scupper MPs’ ‘meaningful vote’ on Brexit
MPs will face a straight 'deal or no deal' vote on any agreement struck with the EU, Brexit secretary Dominic Raab has claimed in a blow to those hoping to reopen negotiations.
In a letter to the Commons procedural committee, Raab spelled out that any motion relating to the Brexit agreement must deliver an “unequivocal decision” for the British public.
Theresa May faced a Commons defeat in June this year when Tory remainers, led by former Attorney General Dominic Grieve, tried to give Parliament the power to take over Brexit negotiations if no deal was reached with Brussels.
Then-Brexit secretary David Davis diffused the row by saying it would be down to the Speaker to decide if the government’s motion on the deal with Brussels could be amended.
But Raab’s letter seems to have reopened the battle over a so-called “meaningful vote”, as he wrote: “Once the deal is presented to parliament, the procedure through which it is voted upon must allow for an unequivocal decision, and one which is clear to the British public.
“Anything other than a straightforward approval of the deal will bring with it huge uncertainty for business, consumers and citizens.”
Making the motion unamendable would prevent MPs from putting forward changes to the deal, such as it being verified by the country in another referendum.
Labour reacted with anger to the letter, with Shadow Brexit secretary Keir Starmer saying: “Labour doesn’t accept that the choice facing Parliament will be between whatever deal Theresa May cobbles together or no deal.
“That is not a meaningful vote and Ministers can’t be allowed to silence Parliament.
“MPs must be given the opportunity to scrutinise, consider and, where appropriate, amend any resolution the Government puts forward.”
A Government spokesperson said: "The evidence provided at the request of the Procedure Committee simply sets out the different ways in which you could take amendments during the vote on the final deal.
"It also sets out the issues that could arise if the vote does not lead to a clear outcome that provides legal certainty. We look forward to hearing their views."