Commons Speaker John Bercow has told MPs he believes there is an “arguable case that a contempt has been committed” by the Government over Brexit legal advice.
Mr Bercow made the comments in response to demands from Labour, the DUP and four other opposition parties, which had complained that the summary legal advice released on Monday did not comply with a Commons resolution agreed on November 13.
He said: “The letter that I received from the members mentioned at the start of this statement asks me to give precedence to a motion relating to privilege in relation to the failure of ministers to comply with the terms of the resolution of the House of the 13 November.
“I have considered the matter carefully and I am satisfied that there is an arguable case that a contempt has been committed.
“I’m therefore giving precedence for a motion to be tabled tonight before the House rises and to be taken as first business tomorrow.”
Mr Bercow said it was “entirely for the House to decide on that motion”.
A debate and vote will take place as soon as the Commons sits on Tuesday.
MPs passed a motion two weeks ago that ordered ministers to provide “any legal advice in full” on Theresa May’s deal.
At the time, Commons Speaker John Bercow confirmed the motion should take effect adding: “It is not just an expression of opinion”.
But the government insist they will only publish a “summary” of the legal advice.
Earlier today a cross-party alliance wrote Mr Bercow, asking him to consider launching contempt proceedings against the Government for failing to release the Attorney General’s full legal advice on the Brexit deal as ordered by Parliament.
Attorney General Geoffrey Cox fielded questions from MPs in Parliament this afternoon and promised to answer whatever they asked but refused to publish the legal advice.
He said “there is nothing to see here” and that publishing the advice would be “contrary to the public interest.” Read more:
Support Independent Journalism Today
Our unwavering dedication is to provide you with unbiased news, diverse perspectives, and insightful opinions. We're on a mission to ensure that those in positions of power are held accountable for their actions, but we can't do it alone. Labour Heartlands is primarily funded by me, Paul Knaggs, and by the generous contributions of readers like you. Your donations keep us going and help us uphold the principles of independent journalism. Join us in our quest for truth, transparency, and accountability – donate today and be a part of our mission!
Like everyone else, we're facing challenges, and we need your help to stay online and continue providing crucial journalism. Every contribution, no matter how small, goes a long way in helping us thrive. By becoming one of our donors, you become a vital part of our mission to uncover the truth and uphold the values of democracy.
While we maintain our independence from political affiliations, we stand united against corruption, injustice, and the erosion of free speech, truth, and democracy. We believe in the power of accurate information in a democracy, and we consider facts non-negotiable.
Your support, no matter the amount, can make a significant impact. Together, we can make a difference and continue our journey toward a more informed and just society.
Thank you for supporting Labour Heartlands
