Brexit court defeat for government

Ah, good old democracy.

The High Court ruled today that Parliament must debate and vote on whether the United Kingdom can begin the process of leaving the European Union.

It will come as a surprise to many considering the government’s persistent denial of giving Parliament a vote on anything surrounding the EU. Moreover, it will raise significant difficulties for Prime Minister Theresa May who has said that she will not be discussing the terms of her negotiations with members of the union. If Parliament are to vote on the issue, the Prime Minister will surely have to provide information on her strategy and terms.

However, there are also many who believe that it could in fact reject the whole possibility of Brexit as MPs may simply refuse to allow the government to trigger Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty.

The government has appealed the ruling and a further hearing is expected next month. What can be said, though, is that democracy must be the issue that is respected by all members of the House. It is not right to allow an unelected government to push through with their plans and nor is it right for MPs to disrespect the majority of the British public, whether or not it fits with your own personal opinion.

A case should be made by the government – an honest one at that – and MPs should vote accordingly with that and with the wishes of the British public in the forefront of their minds. Will it ever happen? I think we’ll probably find out soon.