Shrewsbury shoppers torn over second Brexit referendum

MPs are increasingly talking about the possibility of a second referendum to resolve the deadlock in Parliament over Theresa May’s Brexit deal.

Former prime ministers John Major and Tony Blair are among those urging a new referendum if MPs cannot agree on a way forward.

Despite Number 10 saying it has "no plans" for votes on other Brexit outcomes if Theresa May's deal is rejected, some people in Shrewsbury are calling for another vote.

Michael Ashford, of Bridgnorth, said: "I do think we should have another vote because this has been absolute chaos. If we leave it would create uncertainty with jobs and the economy. I also think we should vote to keep the free movement of people so they can go wherever they want in Europe."

Calls for another referendum have grown in recent weeks after signs that a majority of MPs are opposed to the deal on the table and also to leaving without an agreement.

Mahfuz Raha, from Shrewsbury, said: "We should stay in Europe and I'd definitely love it if the government gave us another vote. Too many people don't actually know what they are getting from Europe. The EU gives us so much support and I think we will be much worse off without them. People will suffer big time."

But Henry Anderson, of Craven Arms, said it is too late for a second vote.

"These people who don't like the first answer want another vote but that's not the way it works," he said.

"I just want the whole thing sorted out now. We don't need another vote and we don't need a deal like everyone is saying. I will be upset if there is another vote. Everyone has different views and I respect that but it's been done now."

Theresa May has said holding another referendum on the EU would "break faith with the British people".

Dave and Pat Burgess, who were enjoying a day Christmas shopping Shrewsbury, agreed.

Mrs Burgess said it would be an "insult to democracy" if there was a second referendum.

"I think we have just got to go with what the people wanted the first time round," she added.

"It would be an insult to democracy if the government were just to keep going with votes until they get the answer they want.

"If I'm honest I just want it all to end. Other big issues like education and health are being left behind because all people want to talk about is Brexit."

Julia Mercer, of Leintwardine, is a staunch remainer but said she was torn.

"I was heartbroken when the vote happened two years ago," she said.

"Part of me wants a second referendum but part of me thinks we have voted now and should just stick with it and get it sorted because it's pushing everything else off the agenda."