BREXIT: Tory MP backs May ‘as Jacob Rees-Mogg is not in the running'
John Redwood has often stood by fellow Brexiteer Jacob Rees-Mogg on key causes including a rebellious vote against a raft of EU policing regulations in 2014. But the MP for Wokingham pledged his support to the Prime Minister when asked if he would rather have Mr Rees-Mogg in charge of Britain’s future outside the EU. Speaking on Newsnight, Mr Redwood said: “No I wouldn’t. “I’m very happy with Theresa May, she is our leader and Mr Rees-Mogg has made very clear he isn’t running to be leader.”
BBC John Redwood has often stood by fellow Brexiteer Jacob Rees-Mogg on key causes
It comes amid claims from Whitehall insiders Mr Rees-Mogg is gearing up to begin his campaign for number 10, despite regular assurances from the man himself that he has no leadership ambitions. The well spoken MP is currently second only to David Davis in the race to take over from Mrs May, according to statistics from betting tracking firm BetData. The Brexit Secretary currently leads the race with 16 per cent of the vote, with Mr Rees-Mogg close behind with 11.8 per cent. It comes after Philip Hammond and Liam Fox used a joint statement to vow that a transition period to smooth the way after Britain formally leaves the European Union will be time-limited and not a “back door” to staying in the bloc.
The world of Jacob Rees-Mogg Sun, July 9, 2017 Jacob Rees-Mogg is one of the biggest characters in the Tory party. Known for his RP diction, humorous speeches and staunchly pro-Brexit views, the MP for Northeast Somerset is firmly in the public eye Play slideshow Getty Images 1 of 10 Jacob Rees-Mogg visits the new Bagpuss Pop-up Shop at Whitelys Shopping Centre
BBC Mr Redwood claimed the Ukip grandee was 'wrong' on the transition being a 'Brexit betrayal'
They also insisted that Britain will leave the single market and customs union in 2019 when it formally leaves the EU. Chancellor Mr Hammond has been accused of trying to thwart the referendum result by arguing for a long transition during which Britain could stay in the single market. But Brexit standard bearer Nigel Farage called the move a “betrayal”.
BBC The MP for Wokingham pledged his support to the Prime Minister
Brexit transition phase: Cabinet splits three ways Thu, August 10, 2017 Who is pushing for the most gradual departure possible from the EU? And who favours a cleaner break? Play slideshow AFP/Getty Images 1 of 15 HARD BREXIT: Andrea Leadsom