European Union (Withdrawal Agreement) Bill and Extension Letter Debate

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Department: Department for Exiting the European Union

European Union (Withdrawal Agreement) Bill and Extension Letter

Robert Halfon Excerpts
Monday 21st October 2019

(4 years, 6 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Steve Barclay Portrait Stephen Barclay
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As I said in response to the earlier question, I am happy to confirm that, in accordance with international obligations, there will be occasions when electronic information is needed for the movement of goods.

The hon. Gentleman talks about bouncing decision makers, but we have already had two extensions. The House has debated these issues endlessly. The first version of the withdrawal agreement was published as long ago as last November. The reality is that he does not want any Brexit. He wants a second referendum; he wants to remain; and he will do everything he can to frustrate Brexit.

Robert Halfon Portrait Robert Halfon (Harlow) (Con)
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Can we write another letter to the European Union saying that we utterly oppose a second referendum? Does my right hon. Friend agree that a second referendum would be a betrayal of the many thousands of Harlow voters and the millions of working people across the country who voted to leave? We should respect democracy and implement the result of 2016.

Steve Barclay Portrait Stephen Barclay
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I absolutely agree with my right hon. Friend. A second referendum would simply take us back to square one. It would create huge uncertainty and huge delay, and it would prolong the paralysis of this Parliament when we need a general election to let the people decide.