Mark Francois: ‘I think if we don't leave on the 31st of October, this country will explode’

Mark Francois has said he believes the country will "explode" if Brexit does not happen by October 31.

Speaking on BBC's Politics Live programme, the prominent Brexiteer was asked about the law preventing the UK from leaving without a deal.

He said unblinkingly: "I think if we don't leave on 31st of October, this country will explode."

The ERG deputy chairman’s remark came amid a heated debate with left-wing commentator Ash Sarker.

Ms Sarkar raised her eyebrows at his suggestion, responding: "I don't think the country will explode.”

She went on to accept there would be “justified anger” among Brexit voters if another delay was enforced - but insisted this would simply force Brexit back into “the hands of the electorate".

Twitter blew up with thousands of comments on Mr Francois bold assertion, with many users joking about the politician being on the brink of “exploding” himself.

“I rather doubt if the country will explode- can't vouch for the blood vessels in Mark Francois' head…,” tweeted one user.

“I regret to inform you that Mark Francois has finally burst,” wrote another.

“News of Mark Francois potentially spontaneously combusting on October 31 is really quite heartening,” joked another.

Mr Francois caused further controversy by accusing Tory defector Sam Gyimah of joining the Liberal Democrats to avoid deselection in his East Surrey constituency.

Mr Gyimah responded by clarifying that he won the deselection vote and demanding that Mr Francois "retract his statement."

“No, I won’t,” the Brexiteer replied.

The politician's contentious BBC appearance came as the Supreme Court began a landmark final hearing on the legality of the Government's suspension of Parliament.