Preparations for Leaving the European Union

Debate between Michael Gove and Eddie Hughes

Monday 21st October 2019 Commons Chamber

[Michael Gove]

I think the EU has been very clear that we need to ratify the treaty as agreed. To be fair to the other 27 EU member states, they have laboured long and hard to come to an agreement. If this House were now to say that it did not like the agreement, I think that their patience would be sorely tested.

[Eddie Hughes (Walsall North) (Con)]

Will my right hon. Friend update the House on the discussions that he has had with European leaders and what their view is as to another extension?

[Michael Gove]

Earlier today, I was talking to Ministers in the Irish Government, and I have been talking to representatives of other EU member states over the course of the past week or so. They are clear: they do not want an extension. They want this done by 31 October. There are many people in the House who admire other European nations, but, on this occasion, they seem curiously deaf to the plea, which is a unified plea across the EU, to get this deal done.

Preparations for Leaving the EU

Debate between Michael Gove and Eddie Hughes

Tuesday 8th October 2019 Commons Chamber

[Eddie Hughes (Walsall North) (Con)]

As the good people of Walsall North voted overwhelmingly to leave the EU, what role does my right hon. Friend think Walsall Council can play in ensuring that they are as prepared as they can be for Brexit on 31 October?

[Michael Gove]

They should pay attention and do everything they are asked to by the outstanding Member of Parliament for Walsall North.