Eddie Hughes MP: Prime Minister Theresa May must stand up to EU pressure
The Prime Minister has been urged to stand strong in the face of EU pressure and retain the UK's Brexit position that 'no deal is better than a bad deal'.
Eddie Hughes said it was time for the European Union to start working towards a 'constructive relationship' with Britain that benefits both parties post-Brexit.
He has vowed to continue to press the Government on issues including limiting the transition period, controlling immigration and clarifying customs and trade arrangements.
Mr Hughes, who was elected as the Conservative MP for Walsall North at the last election, said that on Breixt it was vital that Britain retained the position that no deal is better than a bad deal.
"We must not do a deal at any price and we must demonstrate to our friends that we are serious and ready to walk away if they will not work with us," he said.
He said the transition period must not take longer than two years, adding: "This stage shouldn’t be about kicking the can down the road, but about moving from one arrangement to another as smoothly as possible.
"During the transition period, we must be free to negotiate trade deals with other countries, alongside our negotiations with the EU.
"We need to become a global free trading nation to maximise the benefit of Brexit, with deals ready to go as soon as possible."
Mr Hughes also called for 'concrete action' on controlling immigration and the free movement of people, and urged the Government to give clarity over customs and immigration arrangements once the transition period ends.
"It is already clear that these arrangements will definitely change so practical issues like new buildings and infrastructure need to be built," he said.
"This needs to happen quickly in time for March 2019, in case we don’t secure a deal."
Mr Hughes added: "The Prime Minister deserves our support in delivering what is the biggest set of policy changes since the Second World War.
"It cannot just happen overnight. The country needs to unite to make this a success for every one of us.
"Under the Conservatives, Brexit is happening. Change is coming. And I will continue to press for this change on behalf of the people of Bloxwich, Willenhall and north Walsall."
He said the Prime Minister had set out 'a comprehensive and generous offer' to the EU around financial commitments, defence and security.
"It is now time for the EU to work with the UK constructively on shaping our future partnership together," he said. "As friends, allies and neighbours why would they not want to?"
