In a reply to Ian Murray MP, the Prime Minister Boris Johnson suggested he would not follow the provisions of the Benn Act, which requires him to seek an extension of Article 50 if he can’t secure a deal with the EU by 19 October.

Commenting, Ian Murray MP, leading supporter of the People’s Vote campaign, said:  

“Much as he’d like to pretend he is, Boris Johnson is not above the law. The legislation passed by Parliament requires him to request an extension of our EU membership if he has failed to achieve a deal with Europe by the 19th of October. It could not be any more clear cut. And yet yesterday Johnson explicitly told MPs he would ignore this law. It is not only his language that debases our democracy but his actions. A Prime Minister who shows such contempt for the law is encouraging citizens of the U.K. to do the same.

“It is crucial that everyone is able to make their voice heard in a Brexit extension where Parliament can legislate for a People’s Vote. This would settle the Brexit question within six months rather than let it linger and fester for years to come.

“Vast numbers of people will be marching through London on October 19th calling for a People’s Vote, telling the Prime Minister to obey the law and asking their MPs to listen. Let us be heard.”

/ends