The Secretary of State for Exiting the European Union has resigned last night in a letter to the Prime Minister amid conflicts over Number 10’s “Common Rule Book”.
Agreed on Friday, the “Common Rule Book” would create a free trade area for industrial and agricultural goods with the European Union.
In his letter to Theresa May, David Davis said the consequences of the policy would leave Parliament's control “illusory”.
He said: “I have disagreed with the Number 10 policy line, ranging from accepting the Commission’s sequencing of negotiations through to the language on Northern Ireland in the December Joint Report.
“The Cabinet decision on Friday crystallised this problem.
“In my view the inevitable consequence of the proposed policies will be to make the supposed control by Parliament illusory rather than real.”
Dominic Raab has been appointed as the new Secretary of State for Exiting the European Union.
After Mr Davis's resignation Pro-Brexit MPs hit out at the government, igniting fears of a possible leadership challenge.
They see the Government's new approach as capitulating to the EU's demands.
David Davis finished his resignation letter by questioning the PM’s approach to the negotiations calling himself a “reluctant conscript.”
He said: “I am also unpersuaded that our negotiating approach will not just lead to further demands for concessions.
“The national interest requires a Secretary of State in my Department that is an enthusiastic believer in your approach, and not merely a reluctant conscript.
“While I have been grateful to you for the opportunity to serve, it is with great regret that I tender my resignation from the Cabinet with immediate effect.
“Yours ever, David Davis”
Mike Freer, Member of Parliament for the constituency of Finchley and Golders Green said: “The PM has set out a plan to deliver the right Brexit for Britain and one that is in the national interest.
“The PM has to deliver on the democratic decision of the British people and one that is good for Britain and our European partners.
“Collective responsibility is just that and the new Secretary of State will deliver our plan.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here