Question to the Department for Exiting the European Union :

To ask Her Majesty's Government whether, prior to the Prime Minister’s letter of 29 March 2017 notifying the European Council, in accordance with Article 50(2) of the Treaty on European Union, of the UK’s intention to withdraw from the EU, they gave any consideration to the possibility of withdrawing from the EU in accordance with Article 50(1) without being bound by Articles 50(2) and 50(3); and if not, why not.

The United Kingdom is a law abiding country. We have made undertakings and commitments which we will honour. The country voted to leave the EU, and this Government respects that. A smooth and orderly exit is in the interest of both the UK and the EU.