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A group of Labour politicians have quit the party in protest at Jeremy Corbyn’s position on Brexit as well as alleged antisemitism and bullying within the U.K.’s official opposition. It comes as Theresa May starts a diplomatic drive try to save her divorce agreement with the European Union.

Key Developments:

  • Group of Labour MPs hold joint event in London to announce formation of the new Independent Group of Members of Parliament
  • Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt says “trust and vision” needed as he enters talks in Brussels

Corbyn Says He’s ‘Disappointed’ at Splinter Group (10:30 a.m.)

Corbyn’s office were ready for the announcement when it came and had their own response out soon afterwards. “I am disappointed that these MPs have felt unable to continue to work together for the Labour policies that inspired millions at the last election and saw us increase our vote by the largest share since 1945,” the Labour leader said.

Corbyn accused the Tories of “bungling Brexit” and insisted he had set out “a unifying and credible” alternative plan. “Now more than ever is the time to bring people together to build a better future for us all.”

Seven Labour MPs Quit Party in Split with Corbyn (10:10 a.m.)

Seven Labour members of Parliament called a dramatic press conference to announce they’ve quit the party. It’s been coming for a while and the reasons for the split range from antisemitism, allegations of bullying, and -- inevitably -- disagreements over Brexit policy.

Former Labour MP Chris Leslie told reporters he could not live with Corbyn’s policy of helping to deliver a Brexit that will damage his constituents lives. “Choosing to stand by while our constituents lives and futures are hurt by Brexit is a fundamental violation of Labour values,” Leslie said. “We have no choice but to say collectively enough is enough, there has to be a better way forward and there can be a better way forward.”

The MPs who gathered at the press conference to announce their resignations were Leslie, Luciana Berger, Angela Smith, Mike Gapes, Ann Coffey, Gavin Shuker and Chuka Umunna

Earlier:

May Asks EU to Help Save Brexit as Ministers Revolt Over No-DealBrexit Bulletin: Charm OffensiveThe Plan to Avert Banking Chaos In a No-Deal Brexit: QuickTakePro-Brexit Ministers Could Live With Five-Year Limit on Backstop

To contact the reporters on this story: Alex Morales in London at amorales2@bloomberg.net;Thomas Penny in London at tpenny@bloomberg.net

To contact the editors responsible for this story: Flavia Krause-Jackson at fjackson@bloomberg.net, Tim Ross

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