Tory MPs have all been sent the following awkward questions to ask during Douglas Carswell’s Private Members Bill, chosen by the readers of this website, calling for EU withdrawal that is set to be debated on Friday:

• The Bill, which seeks to repeal the European Communities Act 1972, was presented to Parliament  through the ballot procedure on 20 June 2012. It would have the effect of withdrawing the UK from the EU. The Government does not support the Bill.

• Does the Minister agree that the passage of such a Bill would lead to a constitutional and political crisis within both the UK and the EU?
• Does the Minister agree that now is not the time to take such a drastic move, given the economic turmoil that Europe is experiencing?
• Repealing the EC Act would be a dramatic move. Does the Minister agree that the people of the UK should be consulted on such a move?
• Does the Minister agree that, as the British people now have a vote on any future treaty change, they should also be counselled on a move as severe as withdrawing from the EU altogether?
• Does the Minister agree that the audit of competencies should be completed before any major decisions on the UK’s future relationship with the EU?
• Does the Minister agree that it is far better to consult the British people through the audit of competencies, rather than making a rash decision to unilaterally withdraw now?

As Guido said this morning, it’s time for the Tory backbenches to get organised and have some fun with this one…