A Conservative MP has quit his role supporting Scottish Secretary David Mundell after trying to secure EU citizens’ rights after Brexit.
Alberto Costa, who stood for Angus in 2010, was apparently ousted from his position as parliamentary private secretary in the Scotland Office for tabling an amendment to Wednesday night’s UK Government’s Brexit motion.
The South Leicestershire MP wanted a treaty with the EU to guarantee citizens’ rights after Brexit, regardless of whether there is a deal.
A senior Number 10 source said that Prime Minister Theresa May does not oppose the Scottish-Italian’s proposals, but that it was the convention that members of the administration should not table amendments to Government motions.
Independent Group MP Anna Soubry tweeted: “Alberto has shown great courage in tabling this Amendment I was proud to support.
“Govt has accepted it but then sacked him – which is nasty and petty. Pretty much says everything about how badly broken our politics are.”
