PM Theresa May backs down over Brexit votes in Parliament: Official

UK Prime Minister Theresa May has backed down in a key Brexit battle with Parliament, ditching moves to stop lawmakers trying to re-write her plans, according to an official.

The government had intended to try to prevent the House of Commons from changing the terms of May’s agreement with the European Union (EU) before politicians finally vote on it. 

But according to one official, speaking on condition of anonymity, May’s team have now dropped this tactic in the face of protests from politicians.

That means lawmakers will be free to vote on a series of potential changes to May’s motion, which could include calls for another referendum, or for a different deal with the EU. It’s a decision with potentially huge implications for the future direction of Brexit.

The fact that May is backtracking already ahead December 11 vote suggests she knows she’s losing the battle with rebels in her own Conservative Party who want to tear up the agreement she’s reached with the EU.

Government’s aim

The plans were disclosed by a UK official who asked not to be identified, because the plans are private.

 

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