So MPs now enter divisions. Take a moment to consider how obscene it is that the most important and far-reaching decision of our lifetimes will be taken just 48 hours after the proposal was invented and after just 5 hours of parliamentary debate.
Letwin amendment passes by 322 to 306. That effectively eliminates possibility of no-deal and constitutes Johnson’s eighth straight parliamentary defeat.
Johnson says he is not ‘daunted or dismayed’ by result. He says he will not negotiate a delay with the EU and claims the law does not require him to do so. Lawyers, get ready.
Corbyn welcomes the vote. Calls it ‘emphatic’ rejection of deal. That is debatable. He is however right that it is an emphatic endorsement of an extension. Remember: an extension is an insurance policy. If parliament still wants to implement deal by 31st, it can.
Swinson, smiling broadly, asks Bercow to suspend sitting so Johnson can write the letter. Nicely done.
