14:14

Labour has just held a lobby briefing, and Jeremy Corbyn’s spokesman said that Conservatives were “no longer able to govern” in the light of the DUP decision to withhold support in the Commons. But there was no indication that Labour would call for a vote of no confidence soon.

The spokesman said that Labour wanted to consider the deal that the government had negotiated, and then submit its “alternative Brexit plan” at the time of the meaningful vote. Under that party’s plan the UK would remain in “a comprehensive customs union” with the EU which would “make unnecessary largely any kind of backstop arrangement”.

That remains in line with Labour’s conference policy to oppose May’s deal if it fails the party’s tests first and then, if it fails to pass the Commons, to push for a general election.

Corbyn met Nicola Sturgeon on Tuesday to discuss Brexit, but the spokesman would not discuss whether Labour and the SNP talked about a confidence vote. The spokesman said they discussed “the need to oppose and defeat their [the government’s Brexit] plans in parliament” and “the absolute necessity of preventing a no deal outcome”.

The spokesman was also asked why Corbyn was not present in the Commons on Monday night, when in voting on amendments on the finance bill, the government came within five votes of defeat on a child poverty amendment after the DUP unexpectedly sided with the opposition. He said:

We don’t comment on detailed whipping arrangements, Jeremy had permission to be absent from parliament, the decision of the DUP was taken at the last moment.

When asked if Corbyn was absent because he was “too tired” by one reporter, the spokesman added: