May’s government becomes first in history to be found in contempt of parliament

A vote to hold the government in contempt of parliament passed today with a majority of 18. Theresa May’s government is now the first in British history to be found in contempt.

The vote was held because of the government’s refusal to make public the legal advice it received on Brexit.

The vote also means that the government will now disclose in full the legal advice on Brexit. And it prompted a call to vote on the Grieve amendment, which will give MPs a greater say in the Brexit deal that is finally agreed

The Grieve amendment has since passed as well, with a majority of 22 votes:

All in all, it’s been a rough day for Theresa May, but a good one for democracy. Holding May’s government accountable for its lack of transparency will be welcome news for anyone concerned by the recent Brexit chaos; as will the development of MPs gaining greater control of the final Brexit deal.