Brexit: Rival Tory factions devise no-deal plan

A group of Conservative Eurosceptics and former Remainer MPs have been working on planning for the event of a no-deal Brexit, it has emerged.

Signs the MPs discussed their proposals with Downing Street came as the Commons prepares to vote later on amendments to the PM’s Brexit deal with Brussels.

The votes could guide the next stage of Theresa May’s negotiations with the EU.

A bid to change the planned Irish “backstop” has government backing but MPs could opt to delay Brexit.

MPs have been tabling amendments to the government’s plans to try to influence the direction of Brexit since Mrs May lost the vote on her original deal earlier this month.

Speaker John Bercow is to decide which amendments are put forward and voting will take place from 19:00 GMT.

The prime minister’s official spokesman said it will be followed “as soon as possible” by a second meaningful vote on whatever deal has been secured with Brussels.

But BBC political Iain Watson said Tory MPs on both sides of the argument are starting to draw up more alternatives, in case no progress can be made and the UK leaves the EU without a deal.

Former Remainers, including ex-Education Secretary Nicky Morgan and government ministers Stephen Hammond and Rob Buckland, have been working with Brexiteers Jacob Rees-Mogg and Steve Baker on the plan.

Source: BBC News