This evening in the House of Commons, MPs will vote on the European Union (Withdrawal) Bill – also known as the Repeal Bill.
This Bill legislates to repeal the European Communities Act (ECA) 1972. It’s an important step in the process of leaving the European Union, to ensure maximum clarity as to the law that applies in Britain, and to reflect the fact that following our exit from the EU it will be UK law, not EU law, that is supreme.
If the Repeal Bill did not convert existing EU law into domestic law at the same time as repealing the ECA, Britain’s statute book would contain significant gaps once we leave the EU in 2019.
I will be supporting this Bill in no small part because of the over 20,000 pieces of law brought forward during Britain's EU membership. Our parliamentary system requires scrutiny and oversight of those who make our laws – this should be our elected representatives.
Once we’ve left, it’ll be for Parliament – and devolved authorities – to make appropriate improvements to what is currently EU law.
The UK Government wants to agree a Brexit deal that works in the best interests of all people and businesses right across the EU and UK.
The Government’s position papers form the basis of further constructive talks between the European Commission and the United Kingdom. EU states have more to lose than Britain if they prevaricate and fail to agree.
Once we leave our Parliament will be stronger – as Crawley’s voice in the House of Commons this is a responsibility I relish. The divisions of the referendum must be a thing of the past. My role is to stand up for all in Crawley – regardless of political preference, or choice in last year’s referendum.
Henry Smith MP