In a referendum the phrasing of the question will decide the outcome.
Option 1)
A: Leave or remain?
B: if leave, with or without a deal?
Option 2)
A: leave the EU with no deal yes/no?
B: if no, leave without a deal or remain?
Option 3)
A: leave the EU without a deal yes/no?
B: if no, leave with a deal or remain?
The obvious choice is the first one, but the outcome could be very different depending on which way round it is “filtered”.
I actually think the best option would be a three-way choice where you can choose your first and second preference, and then whichever of the three original choices has the fewest votes is scrapped, with second choice (for those who voted for that option) then taking over.
The whole situation is a mess, but I’m enjoying watching Bojo struggle, and even moreso some semblance of unity from the opposition and anti-no-dealers. It does suggest that the public will be able to have their before this is over after all.