THREE Barnsley MPs voted in favour of triggering article 50 in Wednesday's key Brexit vote in parliament - but one abstained.
Penistone and Stocksbridge MP Angela Smith explained that she had been unable to vote after being called away from Parliament due to family reasons.
Barnsley Central MP Dan Jarvis, Barnsley East's Michael Dugher and Wentworth and Dearne's John Healey all voted in accordance with their party's line in favour of triggering article 50.
In a statement to the Chronicle Ms Smith said: "Parliament has now voted for Brexit negotiations to start. Unfortunately for personal, family reasons I had to be elsewhere when that vote took place, however, I have always been clear after the British people made their historic decision it would have been wrong for Parliament to obstruct it.
"I am also sure, however, that the British people did not vote to make themselves poorer when they made their decision on how to vote in that referendum. I have therefore put my name to a number of amendments, which if passed will keep our membership of the single market on the table as far as the deal with the EU for withdrawal is concerned.
"Trade with Europe is vital. For instance, the 'Centre for Cities' estimates 57 per cent of Sheffield City Region exports go directly into the European Single Market. There is severe doubt that the estimated 30 per cent fall in trade with the EU which could result from the Tory's hard Brexit will be recovered with new trade deals.
"For instance, an Anglo-American deal, according to the 'National Institute of Economic and Social Research' would add 2.6 per cent to our trade, and would go nowhere near replacing our trade with the EU. For people in Sheffield and Barnsley, a 30 per cent loss in our exports could have a devastating impact and I don't think anybody wants that or the consequences for jobs and living standards.
"The hard work now starts to make sure the government delivers a future relationship with the EU which provide jobs, incomes and security people in Barnsley and Sheffield need and deserve."
