There are some brilliant MPs, who go above and beyond. But the majority have hardly covered themselves in glory over Brexit.
“I am determined that under my leadership the Conservative Party will always offer the decent, moderate and patriotic politics that the people of this country deserve.”
“There is a failure of politics in general, not just in the Conservative Party but in both main parties as they move to the fringes.”
The implication is that the Government would win more votes if it kept the ERG happy.
He argues for “a fundamental realignment of Government, Parliament and Civil Service.”
“Yet again her Government has been defeated”.
His association executive is expected to demand tonight that he makes his intentions clear. But the constitution allows him to simply refuse to answer.
The latest email to local members confirms ConservativeHome’s recent report.
In the night’s only defeat for the Government, it passed by 318 votes to 310 – and with the largest rebellion from Conservative MPs.
The proposal was defeated by 321 to 301 votes.
Freeman joins the rebellion. But the amendment fell by 321 to 298.
Not only would he hand control to a minority of MPs, but the supposed cross-party requirement would count defectors as endorsement from the Government benches.
Plus a further 29 probable or possible opponents. It’s decision day: when it ends, we will know who did what.