12:40

Jeremy Corbyn will impose a three-line whip on MPs to vote in favour of triggering Article 50 when the bill comes before parliament next week, after a tense shadow cabinet meeting, the Guardian understands.

Shadow cabinet ministers are understood to have opposed the move, with others argue for a free vote on the issue given the difference of opinion in the party. Senior figures warned there may be resignations from the front bench.

One source suggested that shadow business secretary Clive Lewis said he would vote against the bill, and could even campaign against it. It is not clear if he would be able to remain a member of the shadow cabinet, and the Guardian has not managed to contact Lewis since the meeting