By Ben Kerrigan-
Phillip Hammond has warned prime minster, Boris Johnson that he would commit a betrayal of the referendum if he implenets a no-deal Brexit by listening to the “unelected” saboteurs “who pull the strings” of his Government, former chancellor Philip Hammond has argued.
Johnson and his allies have always said that the implementation of Brexit, do or die, is consistent with the wishes of the British people n the 2016 referendum.
Mr Hammond, who resigned from government in protest against Mr Johnson becoming Prime Minister, has insisted on the importance of the Tory leader to take the UK out of the European with a deal in place.
Hammond said early signs for that “are not encouraging”, warning that demands to abolish the backstop has become a “wrecking” stance over a deal. He said the unelected people who pull the strings of this Government know that this is a demand the EU cannot and will not accede to,” the Tory backbencher wrote in The Times on Wednesday.
Mr Hammond said he was busting two “great myths” over a no-deal Brexit, arguing it will be damaging to the nation – both economically and to the union – and that voters do not back the move.
“Most people in this country want to see us leave in a smooth and orderly fashion that will not disrupt lives, cost jobs or diminish living standards, whether they voted Leave or Remain in 2016,” he wrote.
“Parliament faithfully reflects the view of that majority and it will make its voice heard. No-deal would be a betrayal of the 2016 referendum result. It must not happen.” His concern was echoed by Speaker John Bercow warned he “will fight with every breath in my body” any attempt by the PM to suspend Parliament to force through no-deal against MPs’ wishes
Mr Bercow told an audience at the Edinburgh Fringe festival that he “strongly” believes the House of Commons “must have its way”, in remarks reported by the Herald newspaper.
“And if there is an attempt to circumvent, to bypass or – God forbid – to close down parliament, that is anathema to me,” he said.
“I will fight with every breath in my body to stop that happening