LITTLE-KNOWN Tory backbencher Stephen Phillips announced he was quitting as an MP yesterday, citing “irreconcilable policy differences” with PM Theresa May.

The pro-Brexit member for Sleaford and North Hykeham accused ministers of ignoring Parliament since the referendum, saying he was “unable to properly represent the people who elected me.”

His announcement came shortly after Ms May contacted European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker and German Chancellor Angela Merkel to stress her Brexit timetable remained unchanged — despite a High Court ruling this week which threatened to throw her plans into turmoil.

The court said Ms May must seek parliamentary approval before triggering Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty, which she has promised to do by April, prompted calls for a snap general election.

Labour said the PM was facing a “leadership crisis.”

Party campaign co-ordinator and shadow lord president of the council Jon Trickett said: “Losing one Tory MP in a resignation over her policies may have been a misfortune when [David] Cameron stood down.

“To lose a second one over her Heathrow policy was a significant blow. But now to lose a third only a fortnight later over Brexit amounts to a leadership crisis.

“It is a sign that the Prime Minister cannot provide the change which Britain needs.”