Break: Boris Johnson met potential rebel leader Bob Neil and some of his supporters before last night’s Commons vote, raising hopes of a deal in the wake of the government’s warning that it is prepared to break international law on the Brexit withdrawal agreement

I am told that the talks between Bob Neil and Boris Johnson were friendly and productive. No agreement on the table yet and another week until Neil is due to table his amendment. But a source says: the ball is rolling

Welcome surprise among supporters of Bob Neil at the constructive attitude of Boris Johnson which contrasted, some say, with noises that often emanate from No 10 which are seen as hostile to Conservative MPs

Some supporters of Bob Neil picking up a feeling in No 10 that the government’s explanation of the possibility of breaking international law has not been its finest hour. Sounds like Brandon Lewis, who made the admission, has a dwindling fan base

Two interesting explanations doing the rounds for a possible change of heart by Boris Johnson. 1) While the potential rebels may not be able to defeat the government in the commons next week, a strong rebellion would embolden peers who are adamantly against the plan

2) There may be a virtue in Bob Neil plan for govt bc it would mean the controversial clauses could only be invoked by a parliamentary vote and not directly by ministers. That = more difficult to challenge in court. Judges up for challenging ministers, less keen to challenge parl