I understand his point: Johnson’s “deal” is better than no deal; and I appreciate than many Labour voters made no secret that they wanted shot of the EU; and that an Opposition, to be taken seriously has to have opinions; but Kier Starmer is profoundly wrong to whip his troops to vote in favour of Johnson’s “deal.”

And the reason I say that is simple: by a matter of almost immediate sleight of hand, it will be transformed into his deal overnight. And it will be a disaster.  Businesses across the country are already realising the additional administration, and costs they will face, the uncertainty; individuals will find travel more expensive and more irksome; tourism will be hit; professionals with British qualifications will no longer be free to work through out Europe, even assuming they can get there.   Anybody who cannot see that the  impending bonfire of workers rights, and environmental protections is a simpleton and a poltroon.

The route to power is not to assume responsibility for the errors of opponents.  Brexit is a Tory disaster and should remain so.  If ever there was a time for abstention, this is it.