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The Independent Group faces a tough task; but fwiw, I wish it well. Brexit is supposed to be the one issue which unites the 11... but even with Brexit, they face a difficult task. 1/
Focus on the substance, not the process. Make the positive case for, eg, single market membership, free movement, the UK's geopolitical influence within the EU. 3/
An A50 extension, and a second referendum, are both possible means towards these Brexit goals... but they are not, or should not be, the substantive outcome which the group are striving towards. 4/
I think their substantive goal is remain; if so, they should say so. Whether via an extension or a PV, remain necessarily involves the revocation of A50. The case for that should be made. 5/
As most are all too well aware, I have been making that case for a while now. See eg: blogs.lse.ac.uk/brexit/2018/12… 6/
If revoking the A50 notice is within contemplation, then there is a clear path towards taking no deal off the table. If there is no agreement/extension by X date, Parl can instruct the PM to revoke... leaving only a deal, and extend/revoke in play. 7/
I fear that the group will be bogged down in arguments about a PV (which juxtapose uncomfortably with their refusal to entertain holding by-elections). The Kyle/Wilson plan is, I think, misconceived. See 8/
What remainers want is a shift in the Overton window; with strong voices rejecting both a bad deal and no deal, and instead calling for remain. The Independent Group have a great opportunity to do just that. I'm hoping they don't waste it. 9/9
