As many of you will know, I campaigned to remain a part of the European Union, however the British people have voted to leave. Despite my personal disappointment, their decision will be respected. The Government will now prepare for a negotiation with the European Union, working alongside the Scottish, Welsh and Northern Ireland governments to ensure that the interests of all parts of our UK are protected and advanced.
The Prime Minister, David Cameron, has announced that he will step down in the coming months, stating that new leadership is required for this important next step in the UK’s path. The Prime Minister has also announced that he will leave it to his successor to decide when to invoke Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty and begin the formal process of exit negotiations.
Since the referendum result, I have received a lot of correspondence. Whilst the result is not what I had hoped for, I’m pleased that we live in a country where we trust our people with the big decisions. I agree with the Prime Minister in saying that Britain is a special country, and I’m sure our incredible strength as a nation will allow us succeed outside the European Union. I will certainly do everything in my power to make sure this happens.
By Patrick McLoughlin on June 24, 2016