Leaving the EU

Brexit

The UK is leaving the EU. This decision was made by the majority of those who voted in the EU referendum. Parliament and Government will now deliver the will of the people. In every vote in Parliament, I have respected the result and sought to give Theresa May the strongest hand to negotiate a good settlement, and new trading relationship, with the 27 remaining EU members. Regardless of votes case last June, it has to be in the interest of everyone in the UK that we move forward and focus on getting the best deal for our nation.

During the EU referendum, I wrote to all of my constituents to provide information and an invite to eight public meetings across the constituency. During these meetings, I explained, with balance, what the legal process would be if the UK voted to leave and what reforms would occur if we remained. I took this stance because I strongly believe that referendums are for the people, and not politicians, to influence. By remaining balanced, I was able to help, rather than lecture. When it came to it, I cast my vote to remain and made this public on polling day. Having not campaigned for one side or the other, I was always going to be entirely comfortable carrying out the mandate of the side which gained the most votes.

With Article 50 having been triggered, Parliament is now in the process of ensuring that all EU laws and rights which exist for UK citizens are transferred to UK legislation so, on the day we leave the EU, all rights will remain as previously granted. This bill is called the EU Withdrawal Bill. You can find more news, published articles and information on the EU Withdrawal Bill and the UK’s negotiations with the EU below:

 

News

Local MP Holds EU White Paper Events

Huw Merriman, MP for the Bexhill and Battle constituency, is inviting constituents to an update and a chance to express views on the latest plans for the UK’s departure from the European Union. 

Leaving the EU: Devil in the Detail

As if I needed to add an explanation, matters relating to leaving the European Union have dominated the airwaves, and our division lobbies in Parliament.

Legislating for EU Withdrawal

On Tuesday 12th and Wednesday 13th June, the EU Withdrawal Bill will be coming back to the House of Commons to consider amendments made in the House of Lords. It has been mentioned whether twelve hours of debate time is sufficient to consider these amendments. Given that the House of Commons has debated this bill for 65 hours already, and these amendments are along the lines already debated, I believe this time is more than ample. For reasons expanded on elsewhere, I have always been clear how I would be voting throughout the process to effect our departure from the EU so I will not be voting for any amendments put forward by those attempting to frustrate our departure from the EU

Exiting the European Union

Today the Prime Minister gave a statement on the UK's future economic relationship with the EU. Huw's question to the Prime Minister was welcomed, highlighting the shared interest of the UK and the EU in delivering a deal that benefits all.

Amendment 7, to Clause 9, of the EU Withdrawal Bill

I have been contacted by constituents who have inquired as to whether Parliament will get a say on the final terms covering the departure of the UK from the EU and the new agreement which may govern our future terms. In particular, I have been asked if I will be voting for an Amendment 7, to Clause 9, of the EU Withdrawal Bill, which, it is claimed, would give Parliament greater power to scrutinise our exit terms.