Statement by TUV leader and European candidate Jim Allister:-
“Those who rule out No Deal are inviting continuing EU intransigence and ensuring the U.K. surrenders its strongest negotiating card. It is only by having the option of No Deal that there is any leverage on Brussels. I’d have thought that was pretty elementary!
“Indeed, No Deal is now the path to a sensible deal. That is what will bring the EU to the table, once we so demonstrate that there is no turning back on Brexit. With the EU selling the U.K. £67 billion more in goods each year than we sell them, they need a deal most. But as long as they think they can roll us over, they will.
“The truth is that Brussels had Mrs May’s measure from day one and proceeded to work her over. While a deal would have been preferable, No Deal is now the only realistic option that will induce serious negotiations from Brussels. Hence, the folly of anyone strengthening the EU’s hand by ruling it out.
“Now is not a time for weakness but for strength and determination. And such vision and stoic resolve will be required in abundance from the UK’s MEPs. Now is not a time to be timorous, nor equivocal, but to demonstrate tenacity, born of conviction and belief in Brexit.”