Parliament
returns this week after the Summer Recess. It has been great to be home in
Cornwall for the past six weeks and it has been good to be able to get out and
about and see so many of you during that time.
As
we return one issue continues to dominate the national news – Brexit.
I
thought it would be good to lay out clearly my position as we get closer to our
leaving the EU.
As
most of you will know I voted Leave. I have been a Eurosceptic for as long as I
can remember. Our constituency voted by almost 2-1 in favour of leave, the
biggest margin in Cornwall.
I
am committed to ensure we leave and have the cleanest break possible from the
EU. However it is clear not only that the EU wants to make it as difficult as
possible for us to leave but that many people in Parliament are also determined
to disrupt or undermine our leaving. With the Parliamentary arithmetic as it is
this does present some real challenges for those of us that want to see a true
Brexit.
It
is vital for our democracy we respect the decision the British people made in
2016’s referendum and deliver what the people voted for.
I
do not support another referendum – not only would it not be respecting the
2016 vote – which was a people’s vote, it would also undermine the negotiating
position. It would also cause further delay and uncertainty. The vast majority
of people tell me they simply want us to get on with things and leave. Businesses
in particular want to know, as soon as possible what the future will hold.
It
is doubtful there would even be time for another referendum within the time
available but even if it could be shoehorned into the schedule, the delay and
certainty would be the last thing we need.
Of
course there is also the question that if we held another referendum, if there
were people unhappy with the result of that one, would they then want another
one, and so on until they got a result they were happy with? That isn’t how
democracy works.
I
continue to have serious concerns about what has become known as the Chequers
deal and share the view of many that is does not deliver what people voted for
in the referendum.
I
have always been of the view that the EU would agree a deal, but as is usually
their way it would be very late in the process. There have been the first signs
in the last week or so that they are beginning to soften their position and
that a deal for trade would be achievable.
I
will wait to see precisely what is agreed to before deciding my position. Rest
assured I will be working to deliver the clean and positive Brexit that this
constituency voted for.
My team and I are here to serve the whole constituency and work
hard to make a real difference to the lives of everyone needing support. The
office is open to the public Monday – Friday 10.00am – 4.00pm (no appointment
necessary). If there is an issue you would like my assistance on then please,
either visit the office or contact me on either 01726 829379 or
office@stevedouble.org.uk. Additionally, I hold regular, appointment only,
advice surgeries across the constituency. Dates of these can be found at:
www.stevedouble.org.uk/events
