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How does Theresa May’s plan for a new Commons vote on her Brexit deal affect those hoping to succeed her?

Politics Explained: The prime minister might finally run out of options in June, but the timing of her departure could still make things awkward for whoever is next into No 10

John Rentoul
Wednesday 22 May 2019 17:53 BST
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Going, going... but when will the PM be gone?
Going, going... but when will the PM be gone?

Theresa May announced last night she would be bringing forward the withdrawal agreement bill in the week beginning 3 June.

What this means is that she will probably survive as prime minister for another few weeks. She seems certain to last longer in office than Gordon Brown – she will overtake him on 29 May.

Trying to pass the bill is a way of doing Brexit backwards. The original idea was to hold a vote on a motion to approve the deal – the “meaningful vote” required by law – and then to pass the legislation needed to enact the withdrawal agreement.

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