A radical plan for a second referendum that does not include the option to remain in the EU is being discussed as a possible “plan B” for Theresa May if she cannot get her Brexit deal through the Commons.

Some May loyalists believe that a second referendum might be the “least worst” of several grim alternatives facing her if MPs block the deal on Tuesday or in a postponed vote.

David Lidington, her de facto deputy, Business Secretary Greg Clark and Justice Secretary David Gauke are among those who believe a second referendum is increasingly likely.

Mrs May could not, however, risk calling a referendum that could end up stopping Brexit altogether, having staked her party’s entire reputation on delivering the result of the 2016 public ballot.

Instead, some ministers have discussed a plan to give voters the choice between Mrs May’s Brexit deal and a no deal Brexit to break the current Parliamentary deadlock.