In the referendum last year, the British people voted to leave the EU and the Prime minister has invoked Article 50.  This means the UK will be leaving the EU in 2019.

I believe that a future partnership between the UK and the EU is in the interests of both sides, and as the Prime Minister has explained, a good deal for Britain and Europe are not competing alternatives.  I want to make it absolutely clear, however, that I do not want or expect an outcome with no deal.

A responsible government should, of course, prepare for all eventualities and this is exactly what my ministerial colleagues are doing.  This includes the unlikely scenario where no agreement can be reached.

Whatever the outcome of the negotiations, it is vital that we make the most of the opportunities that leaving the EU presents; we are a global nation and we will be making new trade deals with countries from around the world.

Finally, although the clear preference is to reach agreement rather than leave the EU without a deal, I believe the Government needs to flexibility to do so, if such a deal is not in our best interest.  For this reason, I voted against amendment G to the Queen's Speech