Game changer for a People’s Vote on Brexit

Speaking at the UK Labour Conference in Brighton, the leader of the Labour Party, Brendan Howlin TD welcomed the change in British Labour policy that may prevent the UK exit from the EU. 

Deputy Howlin said:

“The decision by the British Labour Party marks an important milestone on the road to potentially stopping Brexit. 

“While I understand that there will be many people disappointed that the Labour Conference didn’t endorse campaigning for a Remain vote at a future referendum, the decision to support a confirmatory referendum in all circumstances with a full Remain option on the ballot paper constitutes real progress from an Irish perspective.

“The UK Labour Party, the Lib Dems and the SNP are all now signed up to a People’s Vote. Having been here this week I have no doubt that the vast majority of Labour members will be campaigning to remain in the EU, including important figures like Tom Watson, Keir Starmer, John McDonnell and Emily Thornberry.

“In contrast, the Tories under Boris Johnson are intent on crashing out of the European Union without a deal and seen intent on tearing up constitutional norms while doing so. An election seems inevitable and it is good that the full spectrum of progressive politics in the UK will be campaigning for a people’s vote.

“Taken alongside the Supreme Court decision, this may mark a decisive turning point in the battle against a hard Brexit that would be so damaging for Ireland.”

Mr Howlin also called on the EU to make clear that it would allow an extension to allow the British democratic process to conclude.