Theresa May’s predecessor wants to help her to avoid a no deal Brexit
David Cameron is believed to be advising Theresa May on how to get her proposed Brexit deal through parliament and weighing the possible options if MPs reject it.
Sources told ITV journalist Robert Peston that the former prime minister is pressuring May to “get on with getting parliament to work through the options,” in an attempt to heal the Brexit gridlock in the House of Commons.
The BBC learned that Cameron is discussing with his successor how “indicative” or non-binding votes on various Brexit outcomes could be administered if her deal is rejected. These votes would have MPs judge the available options and determine which is the most popular way to move forward with.
Downing Street has denied there are plans to put forth “indicative votes”.
The irony is not lost among the public over Cameron advising May over Brexit. The ex-prime minister advocated for Remain and resigned after the 2016 referendum when the public voted to exit the EU.
“If you want a symbol of the catastrophe Theresa May faces over Brexit here it is: her predecessor David Cameron is advising her how to get some kind route out of the EU – that isn’t the fast one over the cliff – through parliament,” Robert Peston wrote on Facebook.
He added: “This is like the pope asking the chief rabbi on the true meaning of the Eucharist.”
May postponed her parliamentary vote a day before the scheduled date last week after admitting the deal would be significantly rejected unless she received further assurances from Brussels. Following negotiations with the EU last week, the prime minister says a new vote is expected early next year, and no later than 21 January.
However, that suggestion isn’t enough for Labour and some Tory Brexiteers who say a decision is needed immediately so other options can be considered if her deal is rejected. They are hoping to force a vote before Christmas recess begins on Thursday.
