Stafford MP Jeremy Lefroy reveals death threats over Brexit
Jeremy Lefroy has revealed that he and his staff have received death threats over his stance on Brexit.
The Stafford Conservative MP says unspecified threats had been received, which are now being probed by police.
He said: "My staff and I have had death threats. I can't say any more at this stage as the issue is subject to a police investigation."
Mr Lefroy voted Remain in the EU referendum, but has backed the Prime Minister's EU withdrawal agreement all three times it has been before the House of Commons.
He is a vocal opponent of leaving the EU without a deal, rebelling against the Government in a vote last week to allow alternative Brexit options to be discussed.
'Strong emotions'
He confirmed the threats were linked to his stance on Brexit, adding: "The whole issue brings up very strong emotions.
"My policy has always been to accept the result of the referendum. I have voted for the Brexit deal on every occasion it has been before Parliament.
"I believe 'no deal' would be a disaster. It would be the height of irresponsibility for MPs to let that happen.
"I did everything I could to make sure we left on March 29, but it didn't happen."
"My job is primarily to get the PM's deal through, but it hasn't yet so it is important that we look at the alternatives.
"I believe it is important that the UK must move smoothly into a new relationship with the EU.
"I have to resist leaving the EU next week without a deal because of the consequences it would have for my constituents and the country."
Mr Lefroy, who is a member of the Brexit Select Committee, has previously spoken out against a second referendum and now says he believes Britain should not even consider the option of staying in the EU.
He said: "I do not think it is wise to even contemplate staying in the EU. I don't think they want us anymore – I think we have lost their trust.
"And I think they now view us a trouble makers. But we have got to maintain a close relationship. We need to walk down a slope rather than jump off a cliff."
A number of MPs and their staff have reported death threats in recent months, with some warning that Brexit had led to increasing levels of abuse, particularly via email and social media.
