TORY REBELLION: Remainer Nicky Morgan hints she is could DEFY May over Article 50 Bill
TORY MP and Remain campaigner Nicky Morgan hinted she was willing to go against Government and vote in favour of MPs being given a final say on the Brexit deal.
Nicky Morgan: Parliament should have input on final Brexit deal
The Commons will decide whether to accept two amendments to the Article 50 Bill on Monday, put forward by the House of Lords.
Unelected peers sent back the legislation, which will eventually allow Theresa May to begin Brexit negotiations, but are urging for Parliament to be given a final vote on the deal.
Brexit Secretary David Davis warned MPs not to “tie the prime minister’s hands” by accepting the amendments, which also includes securing the rights of EU nationals living in Britain.
Nicky Morgan hinted she was willing to vote against the Government over Article 50 Bill
This is not about making sure Brexit doesn’t happen or Article 50 isn’t triggered
Although it’s likely the Commons will overturn the changes, Conservative Ms Morgan said she is willing to vote against the Government if she felt MPs would not be given a vote.
Speaking to Radio 4, the Remain MP said: “I disagree with David Davis, this is not about making sure Brexit doesn’t happen or Article 50 isn’t triggered.
“MPs and peers have voted overwhelmingly to allow the overall Article 50 Bill to go through, but yes we do think that Parliament should have a say, should have input on the final deal however negotiations conclude.”
The Tory insisted she was not trying to derail the Brexit process, but instead seek assurance Parliament would be given input.
The Remain campaigner insisted she was not trying to block Brexit
She continued: “David Davis and everybody else knows that Parliament will find a way to have a vote. Isn't it better that the Government acknowledges that today?
"If the prime minister wants a united party behind her this is a simple reassurance that can be given by ministers at the despatch box that will have the effect of me and my colleagues supporting the Government on this."
Both of the amendments put forward are being opposed by the Government, who fear any changes could encourage Brussels to put forward a bad deal from the EU.
Mr Davis said on Sunday any amendments could also prompt concerns among the public that Parliament intended to reverse June’s historic referendum result.
He told the BBC’s Andrew Marr Show: "It's inconceivable to me that there wouldn't be a vote on the outcome.... We are going to do that.
"Please don't tie the Prime Minister's hands in the process of doing that for things which we expect to attain anyway."
MPs will vote on the changes on Monday afternoon and, if they are rejected, the Lords will decide again whether to table further amendments or approve the Bill.
If Royal Assent for the Bill is granted, the prime minister could begin official Brexit talks as early as Tuesday.