When Theresa May stood in 10 Downing Street earlier this evening and announced that she would try and break the Brexit logjam by liaising with Jeremy Corbyn, she gave the impression of speaking with cabinet backing. However, the full story is now emerging. In a stormy seven-hour meeting, minister after minister protested at her proposal to use Labour votes for a softer Brexit (potentially a customs union) in order to pass a deal. As many as 14 ministers said they’d rather keep no deal on the table. Around ten ministers actively supported May’s final plan.
I understand the point where the tide turned in May’s favour came after eight ministers had spoken in favour of no deal. At this point, both Michael Gove and Geoffrey Cox spoke in defence of compromise and doing a deal with Corbyn.
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