Theresa May concedes to Brexit white paper after pressure

Theresa May - credit Michael Kappeler/DPA/PA 

Ministers will bring a white paper before Parliament outlining the Government’s plan for Brexit, Theresa May announced this lunchtime in a major climbdown.

The Prime Minister acknowledged that there is an "appetite" in the Commons for her Brexit strategy to be set out in a policy document and subject to parliamentary scrutiny.

It came after reports suggested around 20 Tory MPs were preparing to back a Labour amendment to the upcoming bill on Article 50 calling for a white paper.

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Speaking in the Commons at Prime Minister’s Questions, May said:

"I have been clear as have senior ministers that we will ensure that Parliament has every opportunity to provide that scrutiny on this issue as we go through that process.

“But I recognise I set out that bold plan for a Global Britain last week and I recognise there is an appetite in this House to see that plan set out in a White Paper…

“I can confirm to the House that our plan will be set out in a White Paper published in this House."

Downing St had previously insisted that May had already outlined her Brexit vision in her 'Global Britain' speech last week. 

In the speech May had set out her broad negotiating aims ahead of triggering Article 50, which included leaving the single market and giving Parliament a vote on the final deal.

The Prime Minister today indicated that the UK would fall back on World Trade Organisation rules if MPs and peers reject Britain's new relationship with Brussels agreed by officials.

Following a question from Labour MP Pat McFadden, Mrs May said: "I expect we're going to be able to negotiate a good deal...

"There will be a vote on the deal for this Parliament but then if this Parliament is not willing to accept a deal that has been decided and agreed by the UK government with the EU, I've said if there is no deal then we do have to fall back on other arrangements."

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn accused her of threatening EU nations with cutting taxes and regulations.

“The Prime Minister, Mr Speaker, is threatening the EU that unless they give into her demands, she will turn Britain into a bargain basement tax haven off the coast of Europe. We on this side of the House are very well aware of the consequences that would have,” he said.