The PM has commited to votes on no-deal Brexit or Brexit delay.
The climbdown came as the PM attempts to avert mass resignations by her ministers who have been vowing to rule out no deal in crunch votes set for tomorrow.
Theresa May said she will put her withdrawal agreement – including any changes she has agreed with the EU – to a meaningful vote by 12 March.
If MPs reject her Brexit deal again, May promises vote on no-deal Brexit by 13 March. If MPs reject no-deal Brexit, they will then get vote on Brexit delay by 14 March
PM has stated that the Article 50 extension can’t last beyond end of of June.
The PM said: “Let me be clear, I do not want to see Article 50 extended.”
“Our absolute focus should be on working to get a deal and leaving on 29 March.”
Ian Blackford, SNP, said: “It’s the height of irresponsibility for any government to threaten its citizens with these consequences. Rule out no deal, extend Article 50, but do it today – this should not be left until the middle of March.”
Then the PM surprised the Commons, and probably most people at home, by quoting a TV advert in her response: “If he wants to end the uncertainty and deal with the issues he raised…then he should vote for a deal. Simples.”
As a result of all our cross party arguments & our Bill, PM’s statement today accepts most of provisions of the Bill to provide for votes that can avert No Deal on March 29. We are still laying cross party amendments today in order to secure confirmation of PM’s commitment
— Yvette Cooper (@YvetteCooperMP) February 26, 2019
“She’s raised the white flag” one very unhappy Govt minister tells me. “Who cares if Amber Rudd resigns? Did anyone care last time? Who cares if Tobias Elwood resigns?” And then: “I can’t wait for Theresa May to sell her house. I’ll offer £1. She’ll probably say ‘I’ll take 50p.’”
— Daniel Hewitt (@DanielHewittITV) February 26, 2019