Brexiteers fume at 'betrayal' as Remainer to join Keir Starmer's team | Politics | NewsBrexiteers are livid as a big supporter of the UK remaining in the EU has been touted as a contender to become Cabinet Secretary. Sir Olly Robbins could be brought in to work with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer as his chief of staff, according to reports. He could replace Simon Case, who has been implicated in the Partygate scandal that played a huge role in the Conservative Party's downturn before their historic election defeat. Mr Robbins worked as the UK’s chief negotiator during Theresa May’s time as Prime Minister. During this period, Ms May and her team failed to get a Brexit deal through Parliament, eventually leading to her resignation. Speaking to GB News, Brexiteer figures have warned that Mr Robbins joining Sir Keir's teams could be a "betrayal" of the Brexit vote. Former Brexit Minister David Jones, who stood down as Clwyd West MP ahead of the 2024 General Election, told the outlet: “Olly Robbins was the main force behind Theresa May’s Chequers plan. If that had been implemented, we would have been tied into the EU system indefinitely, with virtually no way out. “I would be extremely concerned if he were to come back in a similar capacity.” Ex-Brexit Opportunities Minister Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg added: “Along with the proposal to reintroduce free movement for under 30s, it is evidence that this Government is seeking to reverse Brexit. “Olly Robbins’ approach to negotiations with the EU was to raise the white flag at the first opportunity.” Former MEP David Campbell-Bannerman said: “There seems to be a very chummy relationship between Labour and Robins, who gave us the disastrous Chequers deal. Will he be on the UK side this time or still the EU’s? It suggests a severe Brexit betrayal is on the cards.” Former Wycombe MP and European Research Group heavyweight Steve Baker added: “I anticipate there will be proper competition for the role in due course and I hope Olly is able and willing to apply. It’s not at all likely this is a done deal. “Olly Robbins is the consummate official, a true public servant with a great strategic brain, the highest standards and deep respect across Whitehall. I’d be all in favour of his appointment as Cabinet Secretary. “I am clear that problems with the EU exit strategy during his tenure were attributable to political decisions in No10. I am confident Olly would make a terrific contribution to the life of the nation.” Source link Posted: 2024-08-23 20:19:15 |
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