Theresa May "two years behind the public on Brexit"

Theresa May has been accused of being behind public opinion after ruling out any second referendum despite a poll showing a majority now wants one.

The PM’s spokesman reiterated today that there would “be no second referendum in any circumstance” following the publication of a poll showing that a majority now back a People’s Vote on the final Brexit deal by 50% to 40%.

The survey for Sky News found that more than three-quarters of the British public – 78% of those surveyed – think that the government is doing a bad job in negotiating Brexit, and just 10% think they are doing a good job.

Two-thirds (65%) believe that the government’s negotiations will lead to a bad deal for Britain – including 51% of Leave voters.

Eloise Todd, CEO of the campaign group Best for Britain, which is calling for a second referendum, said: “The prime minister is behind public opinion – two years behind to be precise. “The public are becoming increasingly tired of being spoken for. They don’t want a shoddy deal full of second-rate concessions, or a nightmare no deal.

PM spokesman reiterates that there will “be no second referendum in any circumstance”

— Emily Ashton (@elashton) July 30, 2018

“The sands of public opinion have shifted against Brexit – that’s why it’s crucial to have a people’s vote on Brexit with the option to stay in the EU.”

The poll found that there was support for having three options on the ballot paper including leaving the EU without a deal, the deal agreed by the government, and an option to Remain.

Those surveyed by Sky News found that the choice to Remain was the preferred option – with 48% supporting staying in the EU compared to 27% preferring a ‘no-deal’ Brexit and just 13% supporting the Chequers agreement.

Taking into account second preferences, an overall majority would support remaining in the EU by 59% compared to a ‘no-deal’ Brexit which is supported by 41%.

• To show your support for a People’s Vote sign the official petition