Heidi Allen calls on pro-EU Tories to help stop no-deal Brexit

Heidi Allen, the independent MP and former leader of breakaway party Change UK, has called on at least 20 Tory MPs to help block a no-deal Brexit.



Ms Allen, a Tory MP until earlier this year, has asked former colleagues to either resign the party whip or stand for a pro-EU party, according to the Daily Telegraph.

In a letter to the MPs, she wrote: “Time is against us so if you would like to consider joining our Remain Alliance please contact me urgently to discuss. Tuesday 27th August is our deadline.

“After that date we will be making final plans on seat targets and resources and may have to make certain assumptions as to your seat. If you would like us to help with seat logistics and party registration, we would be very happy to help.

“We do not doubt your commitment to the causes of just debate, integrity in public life and the preservation of the United Kingdom.”

Ms Allen’s letter is also understood to make reference to Britain being in “dangerous waters”, calling on her former colleagues to take the “difficult and courageous step” of leaving the Tory party.

She was one of 11 MPs, including Chuka Umunna and Luciana Berger, who left the Tories and Labour to form Change UK earlier this year.

The party has since fractured, with the likes of Gavin, Shuker, Luciana Berger and Angela Smith splitting off as a separate independent group. Mr Umunna and Sarah Wollaston also defected to the Liberal Democrats.

The remaining Change UK MPs are Ann Coffey, Mike Gapes, Chris Leslie, Joan Ryan and Anna Soubry.