Corbyn and Labour membership on collision course over Brexit

Jeremy Corbyn has again ruled out backing another Brexit vote PA Wire/PA Images

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn has again ruled out his party backing a second EU referendum even in the face of growing public support.

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There is a ground swell for a second vote with even former UKIP leader Nigel Farage suggesting a new poll might be needed before Brexit is delivered.

According to recent research by the Mile End Institute, eight out of 10 Labour members want a chance to vote on the final deal.

But Corbyn said: “We are not supporting or calling for a second referendum. What we have called for is a meaningful vote in parliament.”

Appearing on ITV’s Peston on Sunday, Corbyn also rejected calls to join a cross-party bid to lobby the Government to ensure the UK remains in the single market post-Brexit.

Corbyn added: “The single market is a dependant on membership of the EU. Do we want a trading relationship that is tariff free? Yes. Do we push for that? Yes. Is that what we have said to the EU in opposition? Yes.

“We have to make a special relationship with the EU.”

Asked if it was a rational position for Labour not to back a second referendum or the campaign to stay in the single market even though the majority of the party’s members want both of those things, Corbyn said: “It is rational to accept the result of the referendum.

“I think we are in the right direction on that. I understand the views of Labour supporters. We want to make sure there is tariff free trade and we protect jobs... that is the basis on which we have spoken to the EU.”