Attorney General Geoffrey Cox has reportedly threatened to resign if Prime Minister Boris Johnson does not comply with a legal requirement to request a Brexit extension from the European Union. The threat was made during a heated exchange between Cox and Johnson, according to sources cited by The Mail on Sunday.
The dispute centres on the Government's concession to a Scottish court that Johnson would obey the Benn Act, which mandates a request for an extension if no deal is agreed by October 19. Johnson had previously stated he would rather 'die in a ditch' than make such a request.
Sources indicate that Cox and Lord Keen, the Advocate General for Scotland, warned Johnson that failure to clarify the Government's intent to follow the law would lead to resignations. Johnson was reportedly furious but backed down, leading to the court submission on Friday.
The revelation comes as EU sources confirm that Johnson has cancelled plans to meet German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron after they refused to adjust their schedules. Meanwhile, Business Secretary Andrea Leadsom expressed 'cautious optimism' about a deal, though EU officials remain sceptical.
Downing Street insists Johnson will continue diplomatic efforts, with Brexit Secretary Stephen Barclay travelling to the Netherlands and chief negotiator David Frost expected in Brussels. The Prime Minister has until October 16 to secure EU agreement before the crucial summit.
