Theresa May attacked after debate on high-power rifle ban is shelved three hours before it was due to start over fears of a Tory rebellion
Tory whips dumped rifle bill just hours before the debate on the 'Offensive Weapons Bill' was due to start
THERESA MAY was panned yesterday after the Government delayed a ban on high-power rifles – amid fears of a Commons rebellion.
Tory whips scrapped a debate on the ‘Offensive Weapons Bill’ just three hours before it was due to start.
Some 33 MPs including Brexit-backing Tories and the DUP’s Sammy Wilson wanted to amend the legislation to overturn a proposed ban on potent .50 calibre rifles.
Despite pleas for a ban from cops worried about spiralling gang crime, rural Tories claim a ban is “disproportionate” and will clobber the sports shooting community.
Labour’s Louise Haigh said it was clear the whips “had panicked” given the threat of a symbolic victory by Tory Brexiteers.
Eurosceptics have vowed to bully the Government in the Commons in protest at Theresa May’s soft Brexit Chequers plan.
A Labour source added: “This is a Government in office but not in power.
“Having lost control of her party and facing a huge Tory rebellion, Theresa May’s whips office has panicked and pulled the bill for this afternoon.
MOST READ IN NEWS
“If she can’t win votes banning dangerous weapons from our streets, how on earth can she be expected to deliver for the country on Brexit.”
Tory sources insisted the Weapons Bill was only pulled because of the lack of time for a “proper debate”.
Yesterday saw three unscheduled Government statements, including Theresa May’s update on the Brexit negotiations. Commons Leader Andrea Leadsom tweeted: “Due to today’s oral statements, the remaining stages of the Bill will be rescheduled at the earliest possibility opportunity.”
But Labour’s Wes Streeting mocked: “Due to the likelihood of defeat in votes on today’s Bill, the Government has arranged some oral statements so that we can pull our bill.”
- GOT a story? Ring The Sun on 0207 782 4104 or WHATSAPP on 07423720250 or email [email protected].