Following a historic defeat in the House of Commons on the UK’s withdrawal from the European Union, S&D MEPs have urged the UK Prime Minister to break the deadlock by either calling new elections or holding a second referendum.  

 

“We were never in favour of Brexit but we worked responsibly to ensure a deal that would mitigate the worst consequences, prevent a hardening of the border in Ireland, and protect citizens’ rights. This deal has been rejected. Unless the redlines of the UK government change, it is the only one possible. The backstop is a fail-safe, we hope that it does not need to be used but it has to be there in case no other measure is found to prevent a hardening of the border, while protecting the integrity of the single market. Attempting to change or add an end date to the backstop is a waste of everybody’s time.

 

"Brexit day is now only 10 weeks away and we urgently need a way of breaking the deadlock. The ball is still in the UK’s court, if their red lines change significantly then we would of course be open to listen and react accordingly. If not, then Prime Minister May should put the deal back to the British people either through a general election or a referendum. Time is running out. 

 

“The EU27 has remained united throughout this process, in stark contrast to the UK government. Whatever happens in the coming weeks the EU will remain united to protect the integrity of the single market, safeguard citizen rights, and prevent any hardening of the border in Ireland.”