18 January 2019 | UK NEWS
Twenty Tory MPs have warned May they will quit the Government to stop a no-deal Brexit. Whilst Corbyn faces threats of resignation from Labour front bench if he backs a second EU referendum.
May travels to Chequers today to prepare a statement due to be delivered on Monday. It will outline the Government’s next steps on Brexit. Debate regarding amendments to May’s Brexit plan begin on Monday 21st, with MPs voting on Tuesday 29th.
Trade Secretary Liam Fox rallies against the possibility of customs union membership, stating it will not deliver Brexit. He has been subject to criticism lately; a Whitehall memorandum found the UK has not yet finalised most trade deals needed to replace the EU’s existing agreements post-Brexit.
Further north, Sturgeon continues to pursue the prospect of another Scottish independence referendum. She will set out her plans for one in the coming weeks.
In economic news, Hitachi has officially shelved it’s plans for a nuclear plant in Wales. The decision has risen serious questions about the future of UK nuclear policy. In London, business lobby groups have stated their objection to delaying Brexit, unless Parliament finds consensus on an alternative Brexit plan.
What’s going on in Westminster?
The House of Commons returns on Monday 21st January.
Cabinet Secretary Mark Sedwill has held meetings with various Government departments to prepare for the possibility of a snap General Election if it is needed to break the Brexit impasse.
What we’re reading on the internet:
Is the EU prepared for no deal Brexit? – LSE
Hitachi’s nuclear withdrawal hits Welsh job prospects – FT
Brexiteers optimistic May will stand firm on customs union – The Guardian
