Free parliamentary vote on Brexit preferable to referendum

THE New Year begins with the British parliament in gridlock over Brexit. With fewer than 90 days until the UK leaves the European Union on March 29, this impasse is bad both for democracy and the economy.

The way out could be a free vote for MPs on both sides of the House. Indeed Liam Fox, a medical doctor who has become a popular and respected International Trade Secretary, indicated that the Cabinet is seriously considering the possibility. A free vote would kick divisive party politics into touch. It would allow the Cabinet, Conservative, Labour, Liberal, Scottish Nationalist and Northern Ireland MPs to vote with their own consciences. The Brexit decision would thus become Parliament's national cause towards the best way forward for the British people.

The first free vote would be on Prime Minister Theresa May's Withdrawal Agreement. The biggest opposition on both sides of the House is on the so-called "backstop" to ensure that the border between Ireland and Northern Ireland remains open. The backstop, an effective insurance policy, would come into effect if Britain's intended free trade agreement with the EU takes longer than expected. The backstop keeps the UK within the EU's customs union so that there are no hindrances on the Irish border. MPs have threatened to reject Mrs May's agreement as they fear that the UK would be locked into the customs union in perpetuity. Under those circumstances, Dr Fox's trade department would not be allowed to negotiate independent trade deals with North and South America, Asia, Australasia, Africa and elsewhere. Mrs May is attempting to get concessions from the EU. If she succeeds, she may persuade Conservative and moderate Labour MPs to vote for her deal.