A HAMPSHIRE MP has quit her government post in protest at the Brexit deal agreed by the Cabinet.
Suella Braverman, Tory MP for Fareham, has resigned as Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Existing the European Union.
In her letter to the Prime Minister, Theresa May, she said: "It has, in many ways, been my dream job.
"However, I find myself unable to support the the deal agreed yesterday by Cabinet. It is therefore with deep regret that I tender my resignation."
Listing her reasons she said: "Firstly, the proposed Northern Ireland Backstop is not Brexit.
"It is not what the British people or my constituents voted for in 2016. It prevents an unequivocal exit from a customs union with the EU. This robs the UK of the main competitive advantages from Brexit.
"Secondly the the Backstop proposals set out different regulatory regimes for Northern Ireland and Great Britain, threatening to break our precious Union."
Other Hampshire MPs have also reacted to the Brexit agreement.
Alan Whitehead, Labour MP for Southampton Test, said: "It looks to be a pretty bad deal.
"It's not really a deal at all, more a series of things which fit in with what Theresa May thinks she can deliver to her own party, not the country as a whole.
"It's way short of anything which provides the country with a satisfactory way forward after Brexit, therefore it has to be opposed when it comes before Parliament as a whole.
"It's not a very happy or satisfactory position to be in. It's not the way forward."
Asked if he thought the deal would be rejected by Parliament Dr Whitehead said: "I think it probably will be."
He also spoke about the possibility of Cabinet resignations.
"I understand a number of people are considering their position. A substantial body of the Cabinet is very unhappy, but whether that will lead to people drifting away remains to be seen.
"I think most of the Cabinet will reluctantly decide to remain on board."
Steve Brine, Tory MP for Winchester, tweeted: "I am getting stuck into the Brexit Agreement today.
"At first glance, and after my briefing from No10 last night, it does put jobs and our economy over dreamy ideology."
Caroline Nokes, Tory MP for Romsey and Southampton North, added: "It's a deal which delivers on the outcome of the referendum in 2016.
"We are leaving the Single Market and the Customs Union.
"We are taking back control of our borders, our laws and our money, we will become an independent coastal state, whilst protecting the position of Northern Ireland and the Union."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel