This email appears to contain a number of errors and misconceptions. I understand the wish to represent constituents' views, but I can't resist making a few points. Short thread. 1/
1. Yes - Labour and the Tories were elected in 2017 promising to deliver Brexit. But they had very different Brexits in mind. Labour has consistently sought assurances that any Brexit deal would meet a number of tests... 2/
...so as to ensure that the benefits of EU membership would, as far as possible, be preserved, and so that workers rights for example would not be endangered. This deal contains no such assurances. 3/
2. Of course remain would not have been subject to a further referendum. A vote for remain would have represented a vote for the known status quo. Any future changes to the Treaties are agreed by the UK (with eg a referendum lock on closer integration). 4/
2016 Leave was abstract. It could have meant anything, from Norway, to May's deal, Johnson's deal, and no deal. Which did voters endorse? Which are they prepared to endorse now? How do we know? Only when Brexit is defined can people know whether they approve of it. 5/
3. If this deal is voted down, it is not true to say that the only alternative is no deal. Indeed, the Benn Act mandates the PM to ask for an extension. It may well be granted; if the UK can show that there is a credible path forward. 6/
If the extension is not granted, Parliament can then decide; to accept no deal, to accept the deal, or to revoke A50. All the options which are available today will be available after Saturday's vote. 7/
4. In complete agreement that this cannot be delayed indefinitely. The UK has to choose. Labour promises to offer the people a choice between a better Labour deal (with stronger guarantees on workers' rights etc) and remain. 8/
Is that not a more comfortable position for you than one which enables Johnson to deliver his hard Brexit and very likely win a new mandate for 5 more years? There is a big risk that, by supporting him, you will be facilitating that outcome. 9/9
@OwenJones84 @NickCohen4 @mrjamesob @UKLabour @DavidLammy
There are a lot of strong arguments to be made against this stance adopted by a small number of Lab MPs, which just might get Johnson’s deal through. Try to persuade them!
There are a lot of strong arguments to be made against this stance adopted by a small number of Lab MPs, which just might get Johnson’s deal through. Try to persuade them!
