More on KentOnline
More on KentOnline
The Prime Minister will get the support of more Kent MPs in today's crucial vote on the Brexit deal today - but a number are set to defy the party.
Two MPs who had opposed the deal in two earlier votes have this week swung behind the Prime Minister, arguing that it was becoming clear parliament was out to block Brexit.
Dover MP Charlie Elphicke and Gillingham MP Rehman Chishti both declared their support for the deal.
Scroll down for analysis on today's events
Sittingbourne and Sheppey MP Gordon Henderson has also indicated he will now support the Prime Minister.
However, it looks like other MPs will rebel over the Withdrawal Act, with South Thanet MP Craig Mackinlay and the Folkestone and Hythe MP Damian Collins continuing to express reservations about the terms of the departure from the EU.
MPs are set to vote on the conditions of the UK's departure but Parliament will not be asked to approve the political declaration.
That has been condemned by Labour which believes that the Brexit bill and the political declaration about the future relationship between the UK and the EU cannot be separated.
It says that it would amount to agreeing to a deal 'blindfold'.
Mr Elphicke said: "I have always been clear we must respect the referendum result and leave the EU, deal or no deal.
WATCH: Political editor Paul Francis on KMTV
"Sadly, people who never accepted that will not allow us to leave without a deal - and look set to force through a soft Brexit or even a second referendum.”
"I believe this would cause serious damage to this country's great tradition of democracy.
"It would also lead to endless argument over Brexit - when people want us to get on with it and focus on other hugely important things, like schools, hospitals, home ownership and law and order."
The vote, if it passes, would secure a delay until 22 May. Ministers say the backing is vital if Britain is to avoid a disorderly exit.
Earlier this week, eight alternative proposals for Brexit were rejected by MPs.
A defeat for the Prime Minister would be likely to keep further pressure on her to indicate when she intends to stand aside.
The idea of a customs union-based exit came closest to winning – 264 votes for and 272 against - there are reports that MPs who back that option they try to resurrect it.
