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Boris Johnson may not get crucial vote on Brexit deal as ex-Tory rebels seek to force delay
- Alliance between former Conservatives and opposition MPs is pushing for amendment that will prevent PM from putting agreement to the vote on Saturday
- If successful, move would mean Johnson would be obliged by law to seek delay to Britain’s departure from EU
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British Prime Minister Boris Johnson may not even get the chance to put his Brexit deal to the vote on Saturday, with support growing for a move by an alliance of former Conservatives and opposition Members of Parliament to delay the decision by a week or more.
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Former Tory minister Oliver Letwin and Labour MP Hilary Benn have put down an amendment to Johnson’s motion which would withhold approval for the Brexit deal until the bill that implements it is law.
If it is passed, Johnson would be unable to put his deal to the vote, leaving him in a situation where he is obliged by law to seek a delay to Brexit.
The main opposition Labour Party is likely to order its MPs to support the amendment, according to two people familiar with the party’s plans. Other opposition parties are also on board.
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Nicola Sturgeon, leader of the 35-seat Scottish National Party, said she is “sympathetic” to the plan and would back anything that makes sure the deal does not go through on Saturday.
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