It prompted people to react by calling for a by-election with many thanking Boles for resigning, although not everyone was on his side about his decision.
The proposal Boles put forward for a Common Market 2.0 would include membership of the EU’s single market as well as a customs arrangement with the EU. It lost by 282 votes to 261 during a meeting in the House of Commons on Monday, April 1.
— BBC Radio Lincolnshire (@BBCRadioLincs) April 1, 2019
He said: “I am resigning the Conservative whip with immediate effect. The Conservative Party has shown itself to be incapable of compromise so I will sit as an Independent Progressive Conservative.”
I am resigning the Conservative whip with immediate effect. The Conservative Party has shown itself to be incapable of compromise so I will sit as an Independent Progressive Conservative.
The tweet announcing his resignation prompted over 5,000 comments and retweets. It was also liked by over 27,000 people.
He added that he gave “Common Market 2.0 everything I’ve got – despite some rather distracting noises off”.
Boles also voted in favour of Theresa May’s EU departure deal three times.
Some Twitter reaction highlights
UKIP member on Havant Borough Council (2014-18) John Perry said: “Good, now display integrity and resign your seat and fight for it again at a by-election.”
Stewart Hart added: “If he has principles he’ll be standing in a by-election. Like all those who’ve left their parties and betrayed their constituents. They’re terrified of facing the public.”
However, Richard said: “I know you are very upset at the moment, but may I take this opportunity to thank you for having the balls to do what you did. History will prove you are right. Thank you.”
Shaun said: “You absolute madlad, solid banter quitting on the spot like that. Great job – the Tories are splitting down the middle, probably a good idea jumping off the ship before it sinks.”
Tom in Brussels said: “Nick, you are a man of dignity. I see you voted for all motions. You truly looked for compromise. I salute you, doff cap, and would buy you a pint of your finest.”
Don't you think the honourable thing to do is to call a by-election and let the ppl decide ?
His job is to do what is best for his constituents, even if that is not what they ask for. He is to be applauded for standing up for the interests of his electorate at a risk to his career.
A Conservative Party that has no place for people like @NickBoles is not one I will support. It is one that has sat too long for any good it has been doing lately. Depart & let us have done with it.
His constituency voted by over 60 per cent to leave. His principles dont come into it, he should have been doing what they wanted and his mandate that he was voted in on
What's "progressive" about trying to overturn the democratic will of the people? I can think of a lot of other words, but progressive isn't one of them.
I am not a Conservative but thank you for being one of the few politicians around who has integrity and has tried to find a way out of this mess that we find ourselves in.
— LizA #IAmEuropean#PeoplesVote (@LizAshling) April 2, 2019
Is that truly your only response? Just because you don't agree with him? God help us if you ever stand for election. Though I fear the furthest you'll ever get will be standing for your local pub's quiz night association or something of that nature, I don't doubt.t
Good riddance. #LeaveMeansLeave every one of the British Public is fully aware what leaving something means. You are not fit to remain as an MP for subverting the public will. I trust you will confirm your new position via a bi-election.
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