Swinson: Lib Dems will table legislation to stop Brexit immediately after election

Liberal Democrats have urged people to vote for them to "stop Boris and stop Brexit", as they unveil ready-to-go legislation for a People’s Vote as soon as Parliament returns after the election. The Liberal Democrat plans would introduce two draft bills that together would pave the way to a People's Vote on Brexit. First, a ‘Paving Bill’ which would enable the Electoral Commission to start the necessary consultation around a referendum question and lead campaign designation. Secondly, a full Bill which would provide for a referendum on the deal versus staying in the European Union. The Liberal Democrats have laid amendments to secure a People's Vote 17 times, and voted in favour of a People’s Vote at every opportunity.   Liberal Democrat Leader Jo Swinson said: "Every vote for the Liberal Democrats is a vote to stop Boris and stop Brexit. "The more Liberal Democrat MPs we have in Parliament the stronger our hand will be in stopping Boris Johnson and his catastrophic Brexit plans. We have legislation ready to go to secure a People’s Vote with the option to stay in the EU. "Liberal Democrats are standing up for Remainers everywhere. We have been leading the fight to stop Brexit for over three years and will continue to fight tooth and nail to keep the UK in the EU. “For the future of our country – vote Liberal Democrat to stop Brexit and build a brighter future." Notes: · The two Bills (click here and here) were drafted by legislative expert Daniel Greenberg, with support from Dr Alan Renwick of the Constitution Unit at UCL, under the supervision of a Reference Group convened by Lord Tyler (Liberal Democrat), including Baroness Quinn (Labour), Lord Hodgson of Astley Abbots (Conservative) and Lord Lisvane (Crossbench). · The work was funded by a grant from the Joseph Rowntree Reform Trust Limited. · Article 50 would need to be extended to ensure a referendum could take place within the 16 week timeframe.