Theresa May's cabinet is 'split three ways' over Brexit transition

Theresa May’s cabinet is reportedly still divided over the best way to deal with Britain’s exit from the European Union, with hard Brexit backers reportedly causing divisions as they call for the shortest transitional period available.

According to new analysis, ministers have been split into three factions as they continue to differ on a transitional period should be used.

The claims come after Theresa May failed to gain a parliamentary majority in June’s election – with detractors claiming that her government is fragile and unable to get the best deal for Britain during negotiations with the EU.

One faction reportedly sees Chancellor Philip Hammond backed by Amber Rudd, who are aiming to keep the transition as gradual as possible in order to minimise economic risks and ensuring and access to the single market is retained by businesses for a three year period.

But on the other side, Liam Fox is reportedly calling for a transition period that is as short as possible, with the ability to negotiate trade deals immediately.

A third faction reportedly sees Theresa May in the middle, backed by deputy Damian Green and leading Brexiteers Michael Gove and David Davis – who are said to support a sustained transitional period that will allow for restrictions on EU migration and the rejection of single market membership.

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Meanwhile, new research has claimed that Britain might have voted to remain in the European Union if just an extra three per cent of the population had been to university.

The research from the University of Leicester, suggests access to higher education was the greatest factor dividing those who voted to remain and those who voted to leave the bloc in last year’s referendum.