MPs have failed to agree on proposals to proceed to the next steps in the Brexit process.
Of the four motions raised, the Commons voted with none gaining a majority. Including a customs union and a Norway-style arrangement, thus, keeping the United Kingdom in the single market.
The government, however, would not be forced to adopt the proposals because the votes were not legally binding. Theresa May has so far had three failed attempts on negotiating with the EU
She could decide to leave the EU without a deal, which won’t be a good step, but she has until April 12 to either seek a longer extension.
BBC political correspondent Vicky Young says, “On Tuesday morning, Theresa May would meet her Cabinet to discuss the next steps to take.”
The results of the votes on the motions raised with the slimmest margins was a proposal for a customs union, with just a three-vote difference.
The UK, therefore, would have to remain in the same system of taxes and tariffs on goods just like the rest of the EU – that would still prevent them from independently striking trade deals with other countries. The motion receiving the most votes was the confirmatory referendum, totalling 280, but still had a 12 vote difference.
Nick Boles, however, surprisingly resigned from the Conservative party following the failure of his own motion – Common Market 2.0 – to stay in the single market.
Following the results, Nick Boles – the MP for Grantham and Stamford – said, “I can no longer sit for this party, I have done everything I can to find a compromise.”
“The only option left is to find a way forward that allows the UK to leave the EU with a deal. The government continues to believe that the best course of action is to do so as soon as possible. If the house is able to pass a deal this week, it may still be possible to avoid holding European elections.” Stephen Barclay, Brexit Secretary said.