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Theresa May announced last night the Cabinet made a “collective decision” to support the deal after five hours of “detailed and impassioned debate”. Ms McVey, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, was reportedly “emotional” and “aggressive towards the Prime Minister” as she argued against the deal. In a three minute confrontation, she is said to have repeatedly demanded a vote at the table to “put on record where everyone stood”.

However, her idea was rebuffed by the Prime Minister, Chief Whip Julian Smith and top civil servant Mark Sedwill. When Ms McVey first referred to the idea of a Cabinet vote it is thought there was “nervous laughter” until they “realised she was being serious”. Cabinet Secretary Mr Sedwill was reportedly “exceptionally polite” and referred to a physical copy of the Cabinet manual, which bars votes during meetings. An insider told The Telegraph Ms McVey had a “massive bust-up” with Mrs May and warned the Government will be voted down when the deal goes to Parliament. READ MORE: BREXIT BUST-UP: Theresa May has FIERY ROW with DUP's Arlene Foster over withdrawal deal

Esther McVey in "tears" after an emotional exchange

Esther McVey is a staunch Brexiteer and opposes the deal

The Work and Pensions Minister is believed to be “on the brink” of quitting. There are also reports Leader of the Commons Andrea Leadsom was also in tears and that she, and International Development Secretary Penny Mordaunt, may also quit in protest of the deal. Both have been vocal about their concern about Theresa May’s deal, with Ms Mordaunt even asking for a free vote in Parliament - a request that was rejected. Whilst Theresa May said the draft Brexit deal was the “best that could be negotiated”, many Tories are furious that the Northern Irish ‘backstop’ means extending EU customs rules across the UK. Number 10 sources said all 29 ministers spoke in the Cabinet meeting and that no one threatened to resign. READ MORE: Rees-Mogg in FEROCIOUS attack on 'UNDIGNIFIED' May as he admits he could demand she QUIT

Chief Whip Julian Smith