Theresa May met with leaders of opposition parties earlier this week to try to break the Brexit stalemate before she travelled to the EU. The leader of the Liberal Democrats, Sir Vince Cable, has claimed the Prime Minister said the “British people voted for pain” when talking about the prospect of the UK leaving the EU with no deal. Speaking to Sky News, Sir Vince said: “I have never believed until yesterday that no deal was likely, but the Prime Minister is almost doubling down on it.
“She was asked at the meeting about the economic pain that would be inflicted on millions of British people, and the answer was, the people voted for pain.”
He added: “I think that was the conclusion I drew and I am pretty certain she now believes it.”
Express.co.uk has contacted the Liberal Democrats who say leader Sir Vince stands by his remarks.
Downing Street told Express.co.uk they do not comment on conversations in private meetings.
Brexit news: Sir Vince Cable revealed what May said in the secret Brexit meeting (Image: GETTY•SKYNEWS)
have never believed until yesterday that no deal was likely
Sir Vince Cable
The interview with Sir Vince came before the Prime Minister spoke to the nation on Wednesday evening and called for MPs to make a decision.
During her speech, Theresa May also said it was with “great personal regret” the UK would not be leaving the EU as scheduled.
Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn walked out of the meeting with fellow leaders after The Independent Group were invited along.
The Independent Group MP Chuka Umunna claimed it was an “extraordinary” and “juvenile” way for the leader of the opposition to behave at a time of national crisis.
