THE choice of the British people has, regrettably, ended up in the courts.

This after a clear decision to leave the EU was reached in the early hours of the 24th June.

The battle-lines are drawn over who has the power to trigger what’s known as Article 50, the only means we have of leaving the EU.

Those wishing to postpone or prevent our departure claim only Parliament has this authority.

The Government says it does under the Royal prerogative, whereby the Executive can make decisions without the permission of MPs, like going to war, for example.

Regrettably, the Government lost the first court case and has appealed to the Supreme Court, which is expected to give its verdict in the New Year.

We are now in uncharted territory, with judges being accused in some quarters of being blatantly political.

For what it’s worth, my view is simple.

We voted to leave the EU.

Invoking Article 50 is the only way out and the two should go hand in hand.

My fear is that if Parliament has to decide, then many colleagues in the House, Peers and others will do all they can to obstruct our exit.

There are already considerable noises-off to that effect.

Any delay will, inevitably, create more uncertainty and, I believe, genuine anger among those who thought a vote to leave was just that.

Those who seemingly oppose a democratic decision should note that the mood is strengthening.

Recent polling by YouGov shows that 68 per cent of respondents think we should get on with it.

Once Article 50 is invoked, we have two years to negotiate our way out.

A divorce on this scale will not be easy.

But I am confident that common sense and pragmatism will prevail.