It’s time we accelerated our preparations to leave the European Union without a deal. The dreadful deal being proposed by the government is making this more likely by the day, and we should be ready for it. Indeed the paradox is that the more prepared we are, the less likely it is to happen, so all the more reason to get on with it.

In truth, if it happens, it isn’t the doomsday scenario some are trying to paint. In fact, it may well be the opportunity to reset our Brexit strategy to give leadership and vision for a better future.

I don’t need to rehearse why the prime minister’s proposed agreement is so bad. It’s been pretty ruthlessly eviscerated by all sides now. It