1,000 sign bar letter asserting Parliament's article 50 role

One thousand advocates and barristers have signed a letter to the Prime Minister calling for an Act of Parliament before the UK begns the process of formally withdrawing from the European Union under article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty.

Acknowledging the result of the referendum, the lawyers say they wish to "propose a way forward which reconciles the legal, constitutional and political issues which arise".

They assert that the referendum is advisory and not legally binding, and that in order to trigger article 50 there must first be primary legislation.

"It is of the utmost importance", they continue, "that the legislative process is informed by an objective understanding as to the benefits, costs and risks of triggering article 50".

This is due, among other things, to the "misrepresentations of fact and promises that could not be delivered" that may have influenced the outcome in favour of the Leave campaign; the significance of the outcome as affecting a generation to come; the position of parts of the country, including Scotland, which voted to remain in the EU; the fact that the referendum did not concern the UK's negotiating position with the EU, or the possibility that agreement might not be reached within the article 50 two year timetable; and the need for a vote in light of a greater understanding of the economic consequences that are now emerging.

These reasons justify, the signatories say, establishing a Royal Commission "or equivalent independent body to receive evidence and report, with in a given timescale", on the benefits, costs and risks of triggering article 50 to the UK as a whole, and to all of its constituent populations". It should also be followed by a free vote in Parliament.

The Independent is among the outlets carrying the full text of the letter.