CITY MP Robin Walker says an extension to leaving the European Union could be “messy” and has again rejected calls for a 'people’s vote' on Brexit, saying the 2016 referendum result should be respected.

He also believes that a second referendum would lead to a bigger majority for leaving the EU than the 52 per cent in 2016.

Another busy week of Brexit developments began with Labour confirming it was prepared to back a second referendum, and a few days later was followed by Prime Minister Theresa May agreeing to give Parliament a vote on delaying the UK’s departure from the EU on March 29.

A crunch ‘meaningful vote’ on the PM’s withdrawal agreement is currently set for March 12, but there is speculation that could be brought forward depending on the outcome of talks with the EU over the controversial Irish border 'backstop'.

Worcester MP Mr Walker said he felt there was now “every chance” of getting legal changes on the backstop that would satisfy those who previously voted against the deal.

“There is a lot of speculation (on how talks are progressing),” the MP said. “It is worth pursuing. I understand the concerns over the backstop. There is an opportunity to get a coalition of support, to back a deal.

“I have said no deal would be disastrous for the local economy. The deal is a good one.

“All of Worcestershire’s six MPs voted for the deal (in January).”

The Brexit Minister said if the deal was rejected, and an extension went ahead, it couldn’t go on for months as it would result in Britain having to hold European elections that he said would be seen as bizarre to the public.

The MP said: “An extension would be messy and difficult. A short extension, to secure a deal, is feasible. But the EU have to agree to it too – would they agree?”

Asked on the chances of a second referendum being called, the MP added he was clear they couldn’t go back on the first result.

“I suspect if there was another vote, there would be a vote to leave bigger than the first time,” he said. “The majority in Worcester gave a clear instruction – that has to be respected.”