York MP Rachael Maskell resigns Labour front bench to oppose Article 50

The York MP and Shadow Defra Secretary Rachael Maskell has confirmed that she will step down from her position on the Labour front bench to vote against triggering Article 50.
Rachael MaskellRachael Maskell
Rachael Maskell

The Labour MP has been consulting with her constituents over the last few days, and has said that the Government's plans for Brexit create an "unjustifiable level of risk".

The announcement makes her the fourth shadow minister to reign over tonight's vote, which will pave the way for Britain to leave the EU.

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A number of other Labour frontbenchers have also confirmed they will oppose the Bill, despite the leadership imposing a three-line whip.

Explaining her position, Ms Maskell said: "I have consulted with my constituents and local businesses throughout the process and held a number of meetings for them to voice their opinions.

"I believe that Theresa May’s Brexit ‘plan’ is creating an unjustifiable level of risk at a time of national and international uncertainty and volatility, with silence on national security measures, no mention of climate change mitigation or environmental protections, and no guarantee of good jobs or employment rights.

"The UK is no longer being offered a ‘people’s Brexit’ but a ‘Theresa May Brexit’, which goes far beyond just leaving the European Union, as voted on at the referendum last June.

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"York has over a 1000 year history of being a centre of trade in Europe, and its economy through its two universities, manufacturers and tourism base still very much relying on Single Market membership and free trade arrangements.

"In voting against the legislation, I am representing the will of my constituents, ensuring their voice is heard in Parliament."

The Labour Shadow Equalities Minister Dawn Butler has also stepped down this afternoon, saying she could not back the Government's "poor excuse of a Bill".

Taking to twitter, the Brent Central MP said it had been "an honour to serve" but she could not "let down future generations".

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Shadow minister for early years Tulip Siddiq and shadow Welsh secretary Jo Stevens have also resigned in recent days, while shadow transport minister Daniael Zeichner, shadow foreign minister Catherine West and party whip Thangam Debbonaire have declared they are willing to defy the whip.

Responding to Ms Maskell and Ms Butler's announcements, Mr Corbyn thanked the for their work, but stressed that Labour "will not frustrate the triggering of Article 50".