Former Conservative leader William Hague has warned Britain faces the “most serious constitutional crisis” for at least a century if a Chequers-based Brexit deal is blocked.
Following warnings from Steve Baker, the former Brexit minister, that up to 80 Tory MPs are prepared to vote down Theresa May’s proposals, if brought to the table, Lord Hague considered the worst-case scenario in a newspaper column.
“It would be no exaggeration to say this would be the most serious constitutional crisis in Britain for at least one century, possibly two,” he wrote.
"It is worth thinking about (the various scenarios) because everyone in Parliament who is enjoying making categoric statements about being against Chequers or against 'no deal' is now loading the revolver for a game of Russian roulette, with a lot more than Brexit at stake."
Later today, John McDonnell, the shadow chancellor, will also deliver a speech in Manchester at the Trade Union Congress’ annual conference while his Conservative counterpart, Philip Hammond, is expected to announce the date of this year’s Budget.
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He told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: "If we can't get a general election, we are keeping the option of a people's vote on the table and keeping all options on the table.
"I think the way in which things are going, I think the way in which the Conservative Party are ripping themselves apart, there isn't a deal that I can see being brought back that will achieve the support of the Conservative Party or Parliament.
"In that instance, I'd rather this Government shifts to one side and let's us negotiate."
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The Independent has launched its #FinalSay campaign to demand that voters are given a voice on the final Brexit deal.
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