General election 2019: Corbyn defends ‘neutral’ Brexit stance

Prime Minister Boris Johnson questioned how Corbyn could be “indifferent” on such a vital issue.And Lib Dem leader Jo Swinson accused him of an “abdication of leadership”.

But  Corbyn said acting as an “honest broker” was a “sensible way forward”.

If he becomes prime minister, Corbyn has promised to negotiate a new Brexit deal with the EU and put this to a public vote alongside the option of Remain.

However, in Friday’s programme he confirmed he would maintain a neutral stance in this referendum before carrying out the result.

Speaking on a campaign visit to Sheffield on Saturday, Corbyn said: “I think being an honest broker and listening to everyone is actually a sign of strength and a sign of maturity.

“Our country has to come together – we can’t go on forever being divided by how people voted in 2016.”My role as the Labour prime minister would be to ensure that [another referendum] is carried out in a fair way, that the offers put are fair, and that I will carry out the result of that referendum.

“I think this is actually a sensible way forward that can bring people together.”