Plotting peers could DERAIL Brexit timetable as unelected lords attempt to disrupt plans

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Theresa May could face big problems this week over rebel MPs and Lords

A rebel alliance in the second chamber is allegedly forming to derail the plan for departure from the European Union.

The source of anger is Theresa May’s insistence on bringing forward the date she triggers officially begins exit proceedings.

Peers want her to push the exit button on March 31, as originally planned.

Now, it is claimed they will vote it out if she does not back down.

All 104 Lib Dem peers are hellbent on delaying the process – and it will only take 30 Tories to inflict a defeat on the government.

Peers, like MPs in the House of Commons before them, are angry they will have less time to debate the Brexit Bill.

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Theresa May wants to bring forward her Brexit plan but Lords will try to make her push it back

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The threat to the Government’s timetable is potentially greater in the unelected House of Lords

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Lord Lamont

If their plan succeeds the white paper could bounce between the houses and dear the Downing Street timeline.

“The threat to the Government’s timetable is potentially greater in the unelected House of Lords,” former Chancellor Lord Lamont said.

“The scope for mischief is there.”

If the Lords carry out their plan – Mrs May will be urged to call a general election and then abolish the House of Lords.

Mrs May would have to wait a year by law until she can invoke the Parliament Act to over-rule the Lords.

Next week, the Prime Minister faces her first challenge as 27 Tory MPs threaten to wreck her plans by backing Labour and Lib Dem amendment.

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Peers in the House of Lords could derail Theresa May's Brexit plan

Tory Eurosceptic, Steve Baker released a statement claiming he had identified the group of 27 in an apparent pre-emptive strike to quell the possibility of the bill to trigger Article 50 being derailed.

The group could include former Education Secretary Nicky Morgan.

“This is a time to unite behind a democratic result not plot to repudiate it. Any vote to amend this simple Bill is a vote against implementation of the referendum result,” said Tory MP Steve Baker.

Labour, SNP and Lib Dem MPs have all tabled a string of amendments to the Article 50 Bill, which proposes starting Brexit talks.

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Behind the scenes at Lord's Mon, July 18, 2016

Click through the gallery for the best snaps from behind the scenes at Lord's

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Click through the gallery for the best snaps from behind the scenes at Lord's

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Some are demanding full access to the single market while others want a “meaningful vote” on what will be the final deal.

The demands – which would become legally binding if approved – can only pass if Tory MPs vote for them because of the party’s majority.

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