I appreciate people’s strength of feeling on this matter and want to make it known that my constituents’ views are important to me.
The Prime Minister has been clear that the UK will form a new partnership with the European Union and build a fairer, stronger and more global Britain. I have read the agreement and currently I am getting briefings and meeting with those on every side. What is crucial is to get the best possible deal to benefit the most people whilst ensuring that our businesses in Taunton Deane can continue to prosper, buoying up a strong economy.
I have just had a private meeting with the Prime Minister to understand her position more fully and to impress upon her some of my news relating to ‘the deal’ – namely to stress that the backstop must not be permanent and that we must have opportunities for wider global trade.
Currently I believe there are no other viable options on the table and I am supporting the Prime Minister and her Cabinet.