Leaving the EU — [Sir David Amess in the Chair]

Mr Dorans addressed three petitions: 'Halt Brexit For A Public Inquiry', 'Establish a public inquiry into the conduct of the 2016 EU referendum' and 'Extend the transition period until after the coronavirus outbreak'. He highlighted issues such as electoral law breaches, potential foreign interference in the referendum, and readiness for post-Brexit arrangements. Mr Dorans cited statistics indicating that 26% of Brexit voters felt misled during the campaign, and referenced delays by the UK Government in addressing security concerns. Concerning economic preparedness, he noted that up to 7,000 trucks could face two-day delays at borders after Brexit due to lack of readiness.

Mr. Stringer expressed concern over the two-pronged attack on democracy since the Brexit referendum, highlighting that some Members want to overturn the decision while the EU uses tactics to make it painful for Britain to leave. He emphasized the importance of a sovereign-compliant final leaving agreement that ensures control over fishing and industry subsidies, as well as preventing future financial commitments by the EU. Mr. Stringer also mentioned legal action against Brexit legislation and argued that controlling domestic laws would allow better responses to crises like the one caused by covid-19. Graham Stringer, a Labour MP for Blackley and Middleton South, interjected stating that accepting the results of democratic processes is fundamental to democracy, regardless of whether one agrees with them. The hon. Gentleman was unaware that the points raised on behalf of petitioners were previously presented to the courts in this country through judicial review, which dismissed the case as lacking all merit. In previous debates, the speaker has disagreed with his hon. Friend but now essentially agrees with the approach taken, questioning whether it is asymmetric to criticise the Government without acknowledging that the EU has withdrawn its initial offers of a Canada-style agreement and recognition as a third country.

The public have been clear in their support for Brexit, with over 17.4 million people voting to leave the EU. Jack Brereton argues that further delays or extensions of the transition period are unnecessary and counterproductive. He points out that his constituents feel they did not benefit from EU membership, especially given the UK's net financial loss during most years of its EU membership. He supports the Government's focus on 'levelling up' to ensure prosperity across all communities. Businesses in my constituency say to me that it is the uncertainty of delay after delay that is causing the most damage to our economy and businesses. Does the hon. Lady agree that a further delay from extending the transition period would only prolong that?

Expressed exasperation at petitions to halt Brexit, arguing that such motions are unfounded and hinder progress. Highlighted the importance of conducting negotiations discreetly through mediation rather than arbitration to avoid public briefings and leaks.

Munira Wilson, representing Twickenham, expressed concern over the economic and social impact of Brexit. She highlighted that her constituency's residents voted to remain in the EU by a significant margin. Wilson is worried about the long-term damage Brexit could cause to the UK's economy and standing globally. She raised concerns regarding the rights of EU citizens, especially given recent Home Office guidance making it harder for those with settled status to secure British citizenship. Additionally, she discussed issues related to agriculture and food standards, arguing that trade deals may undermine these standards. Wilson also addressed pharmaceutical concerns, stating that leaving the European Medicines Agency could lead to supply chain issues and delays in accessing new treatments.

Nicholas Fletcher, a Conservative MP for Don Valley who received the highest Leave vote in his area at 69%, argued that two petitions demanding a public inquiry into the 2016 referendum are not sincere. He stated that 80% of votes cast in the 2017 general election were for parties supporting EU departure, and that the 2019 election confirmed the public's desire to move forward with Brexit. Fletcher highlighted that the Government is prepared to leave the EU on an Australian-style deal at year-end.

Labour highlighted the need for flexibility in negotiations due to unforeseen events like the pandemic. The speaker criticised the Government's handling of Brexit and emphasised that businesses require certainty, not confusion from the current uncertainty surrounding trade deals.

Emphasised Bath's tradition of being welcoming and outward-looking, noting that the constituency supported remaining in the EU with a significant majority. Described the grassroots campaign 'Bath for Europe' as an example of community engagement and constructive dialogue despite divisive rhetoric. Are we not talking here about the human cost of Brexit? We are talking about uncertainties, but it is important to look not just at business uncertainties but human people's uncertainties, and the cruel situations that some of them find themselves in. The speaker argues that it is unfair to blame those who wanted to delay Brexit for the failure to complete a deal, pointing out that the Conservative Government dithered and even removed its own Prime Minister, thus contributing significantly to the delay.