Clive Lewis For Norwich South
Today I virtually participated in the second reading debate on the EU (Future Relationship) Bill, which will implement this Government’s trade deal with our largest trading partner. Despite the significant and far-reaching implications of the implementation process, MPs like myself were given no sight of the legislation until yesterday, and we’ve barely had sight of the deal which we are not allowed to amend.
I explained in the proceedings today why I will not be voting in support of this legislation. I cannot support a process that writes the Government a blank cheque to run roughshod over checks and balances, and I will not comply with the erosion of an already weak democracy.
This is also why I believe it is now more urgent than ever that we need a new and codified constitution that protects hard-won rights and freedoms, and restores sovereignty to where it should rightfully lie – with the people in this country.