Britain Will Remain A Member Of European Union Till The End Of October As EU Agrees To An Extension Of Brexit Deadline.

WION Gravitas: it's brextension till october 31

With Britain tearing its hair out over the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-gives-britain-six-month-delay-to-brexit-date-209399">Brexit confusion</a>, Scotland's government is biding its time as it prepares for the ultimate prize -- independence.

Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, a strong opponent of Brexit, has said she will set out her thinking on independence plans later this month.

The issue presents voters and leaders north of the border with another source of dispute, something that this week's decision to delay Britain's departure from the European Union has done little to resolve.

The government is "absolutely committed to an independent Scotland in the European Union," Scottish Minister for Europe, Migration and International Development Ben Macpherson told AFP while out campaigning in Leith, east of Edinburgh.

But even <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-may-says-view-on-second-brexit-referendum-has-not-changed-209308">independence backers are divided over Brexit</a> -- five years on from Scotland's own referendum in which 55 per cent opted to remain a part of Britain.

Retiree Phil, enjoying the sunshine in a central Edinburgh park, said he wanted "complete independence".

Phil said Sturgeon's Scottish National Party had "done a lot of good but I don't agree with them on Brexit".

He said he would even consider voting for Nigel Farage's new Brexit Party -- much to the consternation of companion Lisa.

"I'm Scottish first, then European," she said.

'Sick of all the Brexit'

Some pro-EU voters who wanted to stay in the United Kingdom in the 2014 referendum are now in favour of independence, but the issue risks pushing away those who want a clean break from both London and Brussels.

Former SNP deputy leader Jim Fairlie said the government's policy of independence within the EU was an "oxymoron", and that tying the two issues together meant "they're not going to get the votes of traditional nationalists like me."

"All the SNP has to do to keep the independence movement together is to decouple it from membership of the EU," he added.

But over 60 per cent of Scots voted to stay in the EU, and some are being won over to the independence cause.

"I know quite a lot of people... who voted to stay with the UK... who now say because they're sick of all the Brexit, they've changed their minds," said local resident Mary Cryan amid the hubbub of Edinburgh's Royal Mile, in the shadow of the city's centuries-old castle.

The shifting blocs have largely cancelled themselves out so far, with polling stuck at around 55 per cent versus 45 per cent in favour of staying in the United Kingdom, according to polling expert John Curtice, from the University of Strathclyde.

But independence supporters think that the chaos in Westminster could shift the balance.

"It certainly makes the democratic case easier because it really does throw into stark relief this democratic deficit problem," Kevin Pringle, a former director of strategic communications for the SNP, told AFP in his Edinburgh office.

'Concentrate on the day job'

Independence supporters still face a stiff challenge in winning over more conservative voters, who wanted to stay in both the EU and the UK.

"The SNP should concentrate on the day job rather than looking at independence," 50-year-old public servant Craig told AFP in the city's Scots Guards Club, as pipers and other folk musicians played in the background.

Complicating the task for the SNP, Brexit has become something of a moving target since the terms of the withdrawal and the date is far from certain.

"It's a bit like a mirage in the desert," Pringle said.

Key to the calculations will be whether Britain will remain in the European customs union after Brexit or not, which would take any volatile "hard border" debate out of a future independence campaign.

Campaigners must also soon also find a united position on a raft of economic issues, including what currency an independent Scotland would adopt.

Pringle added: "It's a challenge that can be achieved but I don't think anybody underestimates the scale of it".

With Britain tearing its hair out over the Brexit confusion, Scotland's government is biding its time as it prepares for the ultimate prize -- independence. Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, a strong opponent of Brexit, has said she will set out her thinking on independence plans later this month.

With Britain tearing its hair out over the Brexit confusion, Scotland's government is biding its time as it prepares for the ultimate prize -- independence. Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, a strong opponent of Brexit, has said she will set out her thinking on independence plans later this month. The issue presents voters and leaders north of the border with another source of dispute, something that this week's decision to delay Britain's departure from the European Union has done little to resolve. The government is "absolutely committed to an independent Scotland in the European Union," Scottish Minister for Europe, Migration and International Development Ben Macpherson told AFP while out campaigning in Leith, east of Edinburgh. But even independence backers are divided over Brexit -- five years on from Scotland's own referendum in which 55 per cent opted to remain a part of Britain. Retiree Phil, enjoying the sunshine in a central Edinburgh park, said he wanted "complete independence". Phil said Sturgeon's Scottish National Party had "done a lot of good but I don't agree with them on Brexit". He said he would even consider voting for Nigel Farage's new Brexit Party -- much to the consternation of companion Lisa. "I'm Scottish first, then European," she said. 'Sick of all the Brexit' Some pro-EU voters who wanted to stay in the United Kingdom in the 2014 referendum are now in favour of independence, but the issue risks pushing away those who want a clean break from both London and Brussels. Former SNP deputy leader Jim Fairlie said the government's policy of independence within the EU was an "oxymoron", and that tying the two issues together meant "they're not going to get the votes of traditional nationalists like me." "All the SNP has to do to keep the independence movement together is to decouple it from membership of the EU," he added. But over 60 per cent of Scots voted to stay in the EU, and some are being won over to the independence cause. "I know quite a lot of people... who voted to stay with the UK... who now say because they're sick of all the Brexit, they've changed their minds," said local resident Mary Cryan amid the hubbub of Edinburgh's Royal Mile, in the shadow of the city's centuries-old castle. The shifting blocs have largely cancelled themselves out so far, with polling stuck at around 55 per cent versus 45 per cent in favour of staying in the United Kingdom, according to polling expert John Curtice, from the University of Strathclyde. But independence supporters think that the chaos in Westminster could shift the balance. "It certainly makes the democratic case easier because it really does throw into stark relief this democratic deficit problem," Kevin Pringle, a former director of strategic communications for the SNP, told AFP in his Edinburgh office. 'Concentrate on the day job' Independence supporters still face a stiff challenge in winning over more conservative voters, who wanted to stay in both the EU and the UK. "The SNP should concentrate on the day job rather than looking at independence," 50-year-old public servant Craig told AFP in the city's Scots Guards Club, as pipers and other folk musicians played in the background. Complicating the task for the SNP, Brexit has become something of a moving target since the terms of the withdrawal and the date is far from certain. "It's a bit like a mirage in the desert," Pringle said. Key to the calculations will be whether Britain will remain in the European customs union after Brexit or not, which would take any volatile "hard border" debate out of a future independence campaign. Campaigners must also soon also find a united position on a raft of economic issues, including what currency an independent Scotland would adopt. Pringle added: "It's a challenge that can be achieved but I don't think anybody underestimates the scale of it".

Brexit chaos leaves Scotland on independence tightrope

The leaders of the remaining 27 countries in the European Union and British Prime Minister Theresa May have agreed to a "flexible extension" of Brexit until October 31, EU chairman Donald Tusk said early Thursday.

United Kingdom get flexible Brexit extension

UK PM Theresa May briefs MPs on Brexit extension. Watch complete video to know more.

UK PM May briefs MPs on Brexit extension

European leaders agreed with Britain on Thursday to delay <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-may-says-view-on-second-brexit-referendum-has-not-changed-209308">Brexit</a> by up to six months, saving the continent from what could have been a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-leaders-meet-to-decide-another-brexit-delay-209279">chaotic no-deal departure</a> at the end of the week.

The deal struck during late night talks in Brussels means that if London remains in the EU after May 22, British voters will have to take part in European elections.

Prime Minister Theresa May and the other 27 EU leaders "have agreed to a flexible extension until 31 October", European Council president Donald Tusk said in a tweet.&nbsp;

"This means additional six months for the UK to find the best possible solution."

France's President Emmanuel Macron was the strongest voice opposing a long extension, but most leaders backed it and the French had to settle for a promise that the delay will be reviewed at an EU summit on June 21.

Most of the leaders gathered for the emergency summit, including German Chancellor Angela Merkel, had backed a plan for Brexit to be postponed for up to a year.

But as the talks went into Thursday morning, Macron -- with backing from Belgium, Austria and some smaller EU states -- held out for a short delay of only a few weeks and demanded solid guarantees that London would not interfere in EU business during that time.

May has already said that if Britain is still an EU member when the European parliamentary election begins on May 23, UK voters will take part. But some EU leaders are unconvinced that she is sincere, despite one official telling reporters her presentation had been "solid".

Without a postponement, Britain would have ended its 46-year membership of the EU at midnight (2200 GMT) on Friday with no deal, risking economic chaos on both sides of the Channel.&nbsp;

May agreed to a divorce deal with the EU last November but MPs in London have rejected it three times, forcing her to turn to the main opposition Labour party in a bid to find a way through.

'As soon as possible'

But these talks are moving slowly, and the prime minister is under intense pressure from hardline Brexit supporters in her Conservative party not to compromise.

As she arrived, May said she wanted to leave the EU "as soon as possible".

"I've asked for an extension to June 30 but what is important is that any extension enables us to leave at the point at which we ratify the withdrawal agreement," she said.

She said she still hoped to leave the EU on May 22, the last day before Britain must hold European Parliament elections.

For as long as Britain is in the EU, it must take part in bloc elections for them to be valid.

EU leaders have already agreed one delay to Brexit, from March 29 to April 12, and Tusk has warned there is "little reason to believe" the British parliament can ratify May's deal by June 30.

A draft copy of the summit conclusions seen by AFP before the leaders sat down to finalise it said, "an extension should last only as long as necessary and, in any event, no longer than."

"If the withdrawal agreement is ratified by both parties before this date, the withdrawal will take place on the first day of the following month," the draft stated.

EU members want to ensure that a semi-detached Britain does not seek leverage in Brexit talks by intervening in choosing the next head of the European Commission or the next multi-year EU budget.

May's ministers have begun cross-party talks with Labour on a compromise to get the withdrawal agreement through the House of Commons.

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn wants Britain to commit to remaining within the EU customs union, an idea that many in Europe would be keen to accommodate.

"We would be generous in negotiating that, understanding that the UK couldn't be a silent partner in such an arrangement -- it would have to have a say in decisions being made," Irish premier Leo Varadkar said as he arrived at the summit.

European leaders agreed with Britain on Thursday to delay Brexit by up to six months, saving the continent from what could have been a chaotic no-deal departure at the end of the week.

European leaders agreed with Britain on Thursday to delay Brexit by up to six months, saving the continent from what could have been a chaotic no-deal departure at the end of the week. The deal struck during late night talks in Brussels means that if London remains in the EU after May 22, British voters will have to take part in European elections. Prime Minister Theresa May and the other 27 EU leaders "have agreed to a flexible extension until 31 October", European Council president Donald Tusk said in a tweet. "This means additional six months for the UK to find the best possible solution." France's President Emmanuel Macron was the strongest voice opposing a long extension, but most leaders backed it and the French had to settle for a promise that the delay will be reviewed at an EU summit on June 21. Most of the leaders gathered for the emergency summit, including German Chancellor Angela Merkel, had backed a plan for Brexit to be postponed for up to a year. But as the talks went into Thursday morning, Macron -- with backing from Belgium, Austria and some smaller EU states -- held out for a short delay of only a few weeks and demanded solid guarantees that London would not interfere in EU business during that time. May has already said that if Britain is still an EU member when the European parliamentary election begins on May 23, UK voters will take part. But some EU leaders are unconvinced that she is sincere, despite one official telling reporters her presentation had been "solid". Without a postponement, Britain would have ended its 46-year membership of the EU at midnight (2200 GMT) on Friday with no deal, risking economic chaos on both sides of the Channel. May agreed to a divorce deal with the EU last November but MPs in London have rejected it three times, forcing her to turn to the main opposition Labour party in a bid to find a way through. 'As soon as possible' But these talks are moving slowly, and the prime minister is under intense pressure from hardline Brexit supporters in her Conservative party not to compromise. As she arrived, May said she wanted to leave the EU "as soon as possible". "I've asked for an extension to June 30 but what is important is that any extension enables us to leave at the point at which we ratify the withdrawal agreement," she said. She said she still hoped to leave the EU on May 22, the last day before Britain must hold European Parliament elections. For as long as Britain is in the EU, it must take part in bloc elections for them to be valid. EU leaders have already agreed one delay to Brexit, from March 29 to April 12, and Tusk has warned there is "little reason to believe" the British parliament can ratify May's deal by June 30. A draft copy of the summit conclusions seen by AFP before the leaders sat down to finalise it said, "an extension should last only as long as necessary and, in any event, no longer than." "If the withdrawal agreement is ratified by both parties before this date, the withdrawal will take place on the first day of the following month," the draft stated. EU members want to ensure that a semi-detached Britain does not seek leverage in Brexit talks by intervening in choosing the next head of the European Commission or the next multi-year EU budget. May's ministers have begun cross-party talks with Labour on a compromise to get the withdrawal agreement through the House of Commons. Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn wants Britain to commit to remaining within the EU customs union, an idea that many in Europe would be keen to accommodate. "We would be generous in negotiating that, understanding that the UK couldn't be a silent partner in such an arrangement -- it would have to have a say in decisions being made," Irish premier Leo Varadkar said as he arrived at the summit.

European Union gives Britain six-month delay to Brexit date

The pound held its gains Thursday after Britain and its EU partners agreed to<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-gives-britain-six-month-delay-to-brexit-date-209399"> once again extend the deadline for Brexit</a>, days before the cut-off for avoiding an economically calamitous no-deal divorce.

After hours of late-night talks <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-may-says-view-on-second-brexit-referendum-has-not-changed-209308">Prime Minister Theresa May</a> was given until the end of October to pass her deal for leaving the bloc through parliament, having failed three times already.

The extension allows for an earlier exit if May achieves it, with a review taking place on June 21.

News of the delay allowed traders to breathe a sigh of relief and the pound rose slightly soon after the deal but observers noted the reprieve was only brief with the agreement merely kicking the can down the road. In early trade London's FTSE index was down 0.5 percent.

"The problem for traders and investors is that the extension... does not bring us any closer to a resolution," said Neil Wilson, chief market analyst at Markets.com.

"The cliff-edge has simply been pushed back. We are in a period of peak uncertainty for UK politics and that won't help investors pile back into UK assets."

And there remains much uncertainty, with the prime minister under intense pressure from hardline Brexit supporters in her Conservative party not to compromise in her talks with the opposition Labour party, while the discussions are moving slowly.

Pressure on May

Michael Hewson, chief market analyst at CMC Markets UK, said: "May will now have to return to the UK and make the case to her disgruntled Brexiter MPs later today that the UK will... be in the EU for another six months.

"This is not likely to go down well, which could well increase internal party manoeuvres to replace her."

Asian equity markets mostly fell, with few catalysts to drive buying and investors still on edge over a brewing trade battle between the United States and Europe.

White House threats this week to hammer $11 billion worth of EU goods with tariffs jolted markets, which have been rallying this year on optimism that China and the US were close to ending their own battle.

The warning revived concerns about Donald Trump's protectionist agenda that has taken aim at US trading partners.

Hong Kong shed 0.9 percent and Shanghai tumbled 1.6 percent despite a jump in Chinese inflation that indicated stabilisation in the world's number two economy. Sydney lost 0.4 percent and Taipei retreated 0.6 percent. There were also losses in Jakarta, Mumbai, Manila and Bangkok.

But Tokyo reversed an early loss to end 0.1 percent up, with Wellington also up. Seoul and Singapore were barely moved.

Paris and Frankfurt were slightly lower in the morning.

Regional investors were also unmoved by the latest central bank dovishness.

The Federal Reserve released minutes of its March meeting that reinforced expectations that it will not lift interest rates this year as it keeps an eye on the US economy and brewing risks abroad.

"I think this confirms the message that we got from the March meeting," James McCann, senior economist at Aberdeen Standard Investments, told Bloomberg News.

"This is a Fed that's pretty happy to just sit on its hands for the time being and stay on hold and see how some of these cross currents play out."

The pound held its gains Thursday after Britain and its EU partners agreed to once again extend the deadline for Brexit, days before the cut-off for avoiding an economically calamitous no-deal divorce.

The pound held its gains Thursday after Britain and its EU partners agreed to once again extend the deadline for Brexit, days before the cut-off for avoiding an economically calamitous no-deal divorce. After hours of late-night talks Prime Minister Theresa May was given until the end of October to pass her deal for leaving the bloc through parliament, having failed three times already. The extension allows for an earlier exit if May achieves it, with a review taking place on June 21. News of the delay allowed traders to breathe a sigh of relief and the pound rose slightly soon after the deal but observers noted the reprieve was only brief with the agreement merely kicking the can down the road. In early trade London's FTSE index was down 0.5 percent. "The problem for traders and investors is that the extension... does not bring us any closer to a resolution," said Neil Wilson, chief market analyst at Markets.com. "The cliff-edge has simply been pushed back. We are in a period of peak uncertainty for UK politics and that won't help investors pile back into UK assets." And there remains much uncertainty, with the prime minister under intense pressure from hardline Brexit supporters in her Conservative party not to compromise in her talks with the opposition Labour party, while the discussions are moving slowly. Pressure on May Michael Hewson, chief market analyst at CMC Markets UK, said: "May will now have to return to the UK and make the case to her disgruntled Brexiter MPs later today that the UK will... be in the EU for another six months. "This is not likely to go down well, which could well increase internal party manoeuvres to replace her." Asian equity markets mostly fell, with few catalysts to drive buying and investors still on edge over a brewing trade battle between the United States and Europe. White House threats this week to hammer $11 billion worth of EU goods with tariffs jolted markets, which have been rallying this year on optimism that China and the US were close to ending their own battle. The warning revived concerns about Donald Trump's protectionist agenda that has taken aim at US trading partners. Hong Kong shed 0.9 percent and Shanghai tumbled 1.6 percent despite a jump in Chinese inflation that indicated stabilisation in the world's number two economy. Sydney lost 0.4 percent and Taipei retreated 0.6 percent. There were also losses in Jakarta, Mumbai, Manila and Bangkok. But Tokyo reversed an early loss to end 0.1 percent up, with Wellington also up. Seoul and Singapore were barely moved. Paris and Frankfurt were slightly lower in the morning. Regional investors were also unmoved by the latest central bank dovishness. The Federal Reserve released minutes of its March meeting that reinforced expectations that it will not lift interest rates this year as it keeps an eye on the US economy and brewing risks abroad. "I think this confirms the message that we got from the March meeting," James McCann, senior economist at Aberdeen Standard Investments, told Bloomberg News. "This is a Fed that's pretty happy to just sit on its hands for the time being and stay on hold and see how some of these cross currents play out."

Pound holds ground after Brexit delay, most Asian markets fall

Prime Minister Theresa May insisted Wednesday she wants Britain to leave the EU as soon as possible even as she prepared to agree a potentially long delay to Brexit at an emergency summit in Brussels.

Without a postponement, Britain is due to end its 46-year membership of the European Union at midnight on Friday with no deal, risking economic chaos.&nbsp;

May had wanted to be given until June 30 to try once again to get her EU divorce deal through parliament, but her fellow leaders are expected to offer her a longer delay, of up to a year.

"I want us to be able to leave the European Union in a smooth and orderly way as soon as possible," the prime minister said as she arrived for talks in Brussels.

She added, "I've asked for an extension to June 30 but what is important is that any extension enables us to leave at the point at which we ratify the withdrawal agreement."

Under intense pressure from Brexit supporters at home, May said she still hoped to leave the EU on May 22, the last day before Britain must hold European Parliament elections.

But in Berlin earlier, Chancellor Angela Merkel said the EU leaders might back a delay "longer than the British prime minister has requested".

She said it should be "as short as possible" but said she believed British politicians should be given "a reasonable amount of time" to reach an agreement.

"It should be long enough to create a certain calm so we don't have to meet every two weeks to deal with the same subject," Merkel told the German parliament.

EU Council President Donald Tusk has also suggested there is "little reason to believe" the British parliament can ratify the deal by June 30.

MPs have rejected the plan three times, and May has already been forced to delay Brexit once, from March 29 to April 12. She reluctantly opened talks last week with the opposition Labour party, but those are moving slowly.

"One possibility would be a flexible extension, which would last only as long as necessary and no longer than one year," Tusk said.

According to a draft copy of the summit conclusions that EU leaders were to negotiate later in the day, they were to agree to an extension to allow May time to ratify the withdrawal agreement.

EU elections in doubt

"Such an extension should last only as long as necessary and, in any event, no longer than [XX.XX.XXXX]," the draft reads. The other 27 EU leaders will thrash out what date to fill in the blanks on Wednesday.

"If the withdrawal agreement is ratified by both parties before this date, the withdrawal will take place on the first day of the following month," the draft, seen by AFP says.

Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis said he expected EU leaders to delay Brexit for "much more time" than May asked, on condition that it holds European elections.

"That is why we can agree -- I speak for myself -- the prolongation," he said as he arrived in Brussels.

Britain has already reluctantly began preparations for the polls, setting the date for May 23, although officials insist they could still cancel it at the last minute.

The draft conclusions say that if Britain fails to take part, it will leave the bloc on June 1.

If an extension is agreed, Brussels will portray it as a concession to Britain, with some members -- particularly France -- not keen to see the disruptive Brexit drama drag on much longer.

EU members want to ensure that a semi-detached Britain does not seek leverage in Brexit talks by intervening in choosing the next head of the European Commission or the next multi-year EU budget.

May will make her case to her colleagues before leaving them to discuss the length of the Brexit delay -- and any conditions -- without her.

Britain was originally due to leave the EU on March 29. But Brussels agreed an extension after the British parliament rejected the withdrawal agreement negotiated with May.

Prime Minister Theresa May insisted Wednesday she wants Britain to leave the EU as soon as possible even as she prepared to agree a potentially long delay to Brexit at an emergency summit in Brussels.

Prime Minister Theresa May insisted Wednesday she wants Britain to leave the EU as soon as possible even as she prepared to agree a potentially long delay to Brexit at an emergency summit in Brussels. Without a postponement, Britain is due to end its 46-year membership of the European Union at midnight on Friday with no deal, risking economic chaos. May had wanted to be given until June 30 to try once again to get her EU divorce deal through parliament, but her fellow leaders are expected to offer her a longer delay, of up to a year. "I want us to be able to leave the European Union in a smooth and orderly way as soon as possible," the prime minister said as she arrived for talks in Brussels. She added, "I've asked for an extension to June 30 but what is important is that any extension enables us to leave at the point at which we ratify the withdrawal agreement." Under intense pressure from Brexit supporters at home, May said she still hoped to leave the EU on May 22, the last day before Britain must hold European Parliament elections. But in Berlin earlier, Chancellor Angela Merkel said the EU leaders might back a delay "longer than the British prime minister has requested". She said it should be "as short as possible" but said she believed British politicians should be given "a reasonable amount of time" to reach an agreement. "It should be long enough to create a certain calm so we don't have to meet every two weeks to deal with the same subject," Merkel told the German parliament. EU Council President Donald Tusk has also suggested there is "little reason to believe" the British parliament can ratify the deal by June 30. MPs have rejected the plan three times, and May has already been forced to delay Brexit once, from March 29 to April 12. She reluctantly opened talks last week with the opposition Labour party, but those are moving slowly. "One possibility would be a flexible extension, which would last only as long as necessary and no longer than one year," Tusk said. According to a draft copy of the summit conclusions that EU leaders were to negotiate later in the day, they were to agree to an extension to allow May time to ratify the withdrawal agreement. EU elections in doubt "Such an extension should last only as long as necessary and, in any event, no longer than [XX.XX.XXXX]," the draft reads. The other 27 EU leaders will thrash out what date to fill in the blanks on Wednesday. "If the withdrawal agreement is ratified by both parties before this date, the withdrawal will take place on the first day of the following month," the draft, seen by AFP says. Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis said he expected EU leaders to delay Brexit for "much more time" than May asked, on condition that it holds European elections. "That is why we can agree -- I speak for myself -- the prolongation," he said as he arrived in Brussels. Britain has already reluctantly began preparations for the polls, setting the date for May 23, although officials insist they could still cancel it at the last minute. The draft conclusions say that if Britain fails to take part, it will leave the bloc on June 1. If an extension is agreed, Brussels will portray it as a concession to Britain, with some members -- particularly France -- not keen to see the disruptive Brexit drama drag on much longer. EU members want to ensure that a semi-detached Britain does not seek leverage in Brexit talks by intervening in choosing the next head of the European Commission or the next multi-year EU budget. May will make her case to her colleagues before leaving them to discuss the length of the Brexit delay -- and any conditions -- without her. Britain was originally due to leave the EU on March 29. But Brussels agreed an extension after the British parliament rejected the withdrawal agreement negotiated with May.

May says wants Britain to leave EU 'as soon as possible'

British Prime Minister Theresa May said on Wednesday her opposition to holding a second Brexit referendum had not changed, but she expected some lawmakers may try to push for one during the process of ratifying her EU exit deal.

The Daily Telegraph reported earlier this week that May was considering offering lawmakers a vote on whether to hold a confirmatory public vote on her Brexit deal in a bid to break the deadlock in talks with the opposition Labour Party.

Asked by a lawmaker whether this had been offered during talks with Labour, May said: "My position on a second referendum, the government's position, has not changed."

"When we come to a deal, we will have to ensure that legislation goes through this House. Of course, it may be that there are those in this House that wish to press that issue as the legislation goes through."

British Prime Minister Theresa May said on Wednesday her opposition to holding a second Brexit referendum had not changed, but she expected some lawmakers may try to push for one during the process of ratifying her EU exit deal.

British Prime Minister Theresa May said on Wednesday her opposition to holding a second Brexit referendum had not changed, but she expected some lawmakers may try to push for one during the process of ratifying her EU exit deal. The Daily Telegraph reported earlier this week that May was considering offering lawmakers a vote on whether to hold a confirmatory public vote on her Brexit deal in a bid to break the deadlock in talks with the opposition Labour Party. Asked by a lawmaker whether this had been offered during talks with Labour, May said: "My position on a second referendum, the government's position, has not changed." "When we come to a deal, we will have to ensure that legislation goes through this House. Of course, it may be that there are those in this House that wish to press that issue as the legislation goes through."

UK PM May says view on second Brexit referendum has not changed

Brexit is going through yet another crunch week. It is unlikely to be the last as the European Union appears likely to grant the United Kingdom another extension at an emergency European Council summit on Wednesday evening.

Brexit: Theresa May to meet EU today, will she get another extension?

European leaders gathered in Brussels on Wednesday to decide how long a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-pass-law-to-block-no-deal-brexit-208897">Brexit delay</a> to grant <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-pm-theresa-may-releases-video-statement-about-brexit-208696">British Prime Minister Theresa May</a> -- and under what conditions.

Without a postponement, Britain is due to crash out of the European Union at midnight on Friday under a "no-deal" Brexit that could trigger economic chaos. &nbsp;

May has embarked on a last-ditch battle to postpone Brexit from April 12 to June 30 to arrange an orderly departure -- but European leaders are expected to offer her a longer delay of up to a year.

"There are times when you need to give time," EU Council President Donald Tusk tweeted, as he issued summit invitations.

Summit host Tusk said the evidence of recent months gave EU leaders "little reason to believe" that British lawmakers will ratify the Brexit withdrawal treaty before May's preferred June 30 departure.

"In reality, granting such an extension would increase the risk of a rolling series of short extensions and emergency summits, creating new cliff-edge dates," he said, reflecting concern in EU capitals.

"One possibility would be a flexible extension, which would last only as long as necessary and no longer than one year," he said.

According to a draft copy of the summit conclusions that EU leaders were to receive and debate later in the day, they will agree to an extension to allow May time to ratify the withdrawal agreement.

"Such an extension should last only as long as necessary and, in any event, no longer than [XX.XX.XXXX]," the draft reads.

The other 27 EU leaders will thrash out what date to fill in the blanks on Wednesday.

"If the Withdrawal Agreement is ratified by both parties before this date, the withdrawal will take place on the first day of the following month," the draft, seen by AFP says.

If Britain is still in the European Union when EU parliamentary elections begin on May 23, it must take part in the vote.

"If the United Kingdom fails to live up to this obligation, the withdrawal will take place on 1 June 2019," the draft warns.

If an extension is agreed, Brussels will portray it as a concession to Britain, with some members -- particularly France -- not keen to see the disruptive Brexit drama drag on much longer.

But May insists she still wants to quickly ratify the withdrawal she agreed with EU leaders last November, but which has been rejected by British lawmakers, and to leave before the EU polls. &nbsp;

On Tuesday, May flew to Berlin to meet German Chancellor Angela Merkel, then on to Paris, where an aide to President Emmanuel Macron said France was open to solutions.&nbsp;

"We've never been closed to the idea of finding an alternative solution to 'no deal' within certain limits and not at any price," the Elysee source said.&nbsp;

Discussions in Brussels are to focus on the length of the delay -- the French source said a 12-month extension "seems too long" -- and arrangements to limit Britain's influence within the EU.

EU members want to ensure that a semi-detached Britain does not seek leverage in Brexit talks by intervening in choosing the next head of the European Commission or the next multi-year EU budget.

Talks with Labour

Britain was originally due to leave the EU on March 29, but Brussels agreed an extension after the British parliament rejected the withdrawal agreement negotiated with May.

The British premier is hoping a new period of extra time, if granted, will enable her to finally get a divorce deal through the legislature.

British MPs have rejected her deal three times, but May is now in talks with the opposition Labour party to try break the deadlock.

These discussions are moving slowly, and EU negotiator Michel Barnier said May must explain what postponement would achieve.

"The length of the extension must be linked to the purpose -- what it's for -- and that depends on what Mrs May will say to European leaders tomorrow," he said, after meeting EU ministers in Luxembourg.

A "no deal" -- in which Britain crashes out of the EU -- is still a possibility.&nbsp;

The International Monetary Fund said Tuesday that Britain risks a serious shock if it leaves the EU without an agreement.

And US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin warned American lawmakers: "I think at this point we need to be prepared for a hard Brexit as a very realistic outcome."

European leaders gathered in Brussels on Wednesday to decide how long a Brexit delay to grant British Prime Minister Theresa May -- and under what conditions. Without a postponement, Britain is due to crash out of the European Union at midnight on Friday under a "no-deal" Brexit that could trigger economic chaos.

European leaders gathered in Brussels on Wednesday to decide how long a Brexit delay to grant British Prime Minister Theresa May -- and under what conditions. Without a postponement, Britain is due to crash out of the European Union at midnight on Friday under a "no-deal" Brexit that could trigger economic chaos. May has embarked on a last-ditch battle to postpone Brexit from April 12 to June 30 to arrange an orderly departure -- but European leaders are expected to offer her a longer delay of up to a year. "There are times when you need to give time," EU Council President Donald Tusk tweeted, as he issued summit invitations. Summit host Tusk said the evidence of recent months gave EU leaders "little reason to believe" that British lawmakers will ratify the Brexit withdrawal treaty before May's preferred June 30 departure. "In reality, granting such an extension would increase the risk of a rolling series of short extensions and emergency summits, creating new cliff-edge dates," he said, reflecting concern in EU capitals. "One possibility would be a flexible extension, which would last only as long as necessary and no longer than one year," he said. According to a draft copy of the summit conclusions that EU leaders were to receive and debate later in the day, they will agree to an extension to allow May time to ratify the withdrawal agreement. "Such an extension should last only as long as necessary and, in any event, no longer than [XX.XX.XXXX]," the draft reads. The other 27 EU leaders will thrash out what date to fill in the blanks on Wednesday. "If the Withdrawal Agreement is ratified by both parties before this date, the withdrawal will take place on the first day of the following month," the draft, seen by AFP says. If Britain is still in the European Union when EU parliamentary elections begin on May 23, it must take part in the vote. "If the United Kingdom fails to live up to this obligation, the withdrawal will take place on 1 June 2019," the draft warns. If an extension is agreed, Brussels will portray it as a concession to Britain, with some members -- particularly France -- not keen to see the disruptive Brexit drama drag on much longer. But May insists she still wants to quickly ratify the withdrawal she agreed with EU leaders last November, but which has been rejected by British lawmakers, and to leave before the EU polls. On Tuesday, May flew to Berlin to meet German Chancellor Angela Merkel, then on to Paris, where an aide to President Emmanuel Macron said France was open to solutions. "We've never been closed to the idea of finding an alternative solution to 'no deal' within certain limits and not at any price," the Elysee source said. Discussions in Brussels are to focus on the length of the delay -- the French source said a 12-month extension "seems too long" -- and arrangements to limit Britain's influence within the EU. EU members want to ensure that a semi-detached Britain does not seek leverage in Brexit talks by intervening in choosing the next head of the European Commission or the next multi-year EU budget. Talks with Labour Britain was originally due to leave the EU on March 29, but Brussels agreed an extension after the British parliament rejected the withdrawal agreement negotiated with May. The British premier is hoping a new period of extra time, if granted, will enable her to finally get a divorce deal through the legislature. British MPs have rejected her deal three times, but May is now in talks with the opposition Labour party to try break the deadlock. These discussions are moving slowly, and EU negotiator Michel Barnier said May must explain what postponement would achieve. "The length of the extension must be linked to the purpose -- what it's for -- and that depends on what Mrs May will say to European leaders tomorrow," he said, after meeting EU ministers in Luxembourg. A "no deal" -- in which Britain crashes out of the EU -- is still a possibility. The International Monetary Fund said Tuesday that Britain risks a serious shock if it leaves the EU without an agreement. And US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin warned American lawmakers: "I think at this point we need to be prepared for a hard Brexit as a very realistic outcome."

EU leaders meet to decide another Brexit delay

British MPs on Monday passed a new law aimed at preventing a no-deal Brexit this week by obliging the government to ask EU leaders for a delay.

The law has been rushed through both chambers of parliament over the past week and was opposed by the government, which has said it could limit its room for negotiation with the European Union.

"This is a huge dog's dinner," Andrea Leadsom, who represents the government in parliament, told MPs.

"I fundamentally object to it on the grounds that it is totally unconventional," she said.

The law was passed on the initiative of MPs, subverting the normal order in which parliament debates and passes government-proposed legislation.

As a result of the law, the government now must put forward a motion in parliament on Tuesday setting out the delay that it will request at an EU summit on Wednesday.

MPs will be allowed to vote on this and make their own suggestions as to the length of the delay.

It allows the government to seek any extension from May 22 onwards. Prime Minister Theresa May has asked for a delay until June 30, but ultimately this is up to EU leaders and it could be longer.

The law does not actually prevent a no-deal Brexit when the deadline for Britain runs out on Friday, as that is the legal default if Britain and the EU cannot agree on an extension at the summit.

Britain could also choose to stop the entire Brexit process by revoking Article 50, the formal procedure for member states that want to leave.

British MPs on Monday passed a new law aimed at preventing a no-deal Brexit this week by obliging the government to ask EU leaders for a delay. The law has been rushed through both chambers of parliament over the past week and was opposed by the government, which has said it could limit its room for negotiation with the European Union.

British MPs on Monday passed a new law aimed at preventing a no-deal Brexit this week by obliging the government to ask EU leaders for a delay. The law has been rushed through both chambers of parliament over the past week and was opposed by the government, which has said it could limit its room for negotiation with the European Union. "This is a huge dog's dinner," Andrea Leadsom, who represents the government in parliament, told MPs. "I fundamentally object to it on the grounds that it is totally unconventional," she said. The law was passed on the initiative of MPs, subverting the normal order in which parliament debates and passes government-proposed legislation. As a result of the law, the government now must put forward a motion in parliament on Tuesday setting out the delay that it will request at an EU summit on Wednesday. MPs will be allowed to vote on this and make their own suggestions as to the length of the delay. It allows the government to seek any extension from May 22 onwards. Prime Minister Theresa May has asked for a delay until June 30, but ultimately this is up to EU leaders and it could be longer. The law does not actually prevent a no-deal Brexit when the deadline for Britain runs out on Friday, as that is the legal default if Britain and the EU cannot agree on an extension at the summit. Britain could also choose to stop the entire Brexit process by revoking Article 50, the formal procedure for member states that want to leave.

British MPs pass law to block no-deal Brexit

The EU's chief <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/will-step-down-before-next-phase-of-brexit-negotiations-pm-theresa-may-to-mps-206112&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiTvMG1_sLhAhXZaN4KHWZ_AfsQFggRMAQ&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw1L4nZ4o56VAJrs2PA-3M8F">Brexit </a>negotiator Michel Barnier said Tuesday that the length of any delay to the divorce that the bloc may grant Britain will depend on what plan Prime Minister <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-theresa-may-seeks-new-brexit-delay-to-approve-deal-207606&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiTvMG1_sLhAhXZaN4KHWZ_AfsQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw3Ux7ecZiOFtQ_2bPlp1-3F">Theresa May </a>brings to a crunch summit.

The British leader is making a last-gasp diplomatic dash to Paris and Berlin on the eve of an emergency summit in Brussels, where she hopes the other 27 EU chiefs will agree to postpone Brexit to June 30.

She needs more time to try to strike a compromise with the opposition that will let Britain's bitterly divided parliament back an orderly divorce plan at the fourth attempt.

Without such a delay, the United Kingdom is scheduled to crash out with no deal on Friday.

But the EU has already granted one delay -- the original deadline was March 29 -- and negotiator Michel Barnier said May must explain what another postponement would achieve.

"The length of the extension must be linked to the purpose -- what it's for -- and that depends on what Mrs May will say to European leaders tomorrow," Barnier told reporters after a meeting of EU Europe ministers to discuss the Brexit crisis.

"She is coming back to indicate the way forward, that is what is expected by European leaders... It is for her to bring the roadmap."

Barnier insisted it would not be the EU's fault if a chaotic "no deal" departure -- predicted to have a calamitous impact -- came to pass.

"No deal will never be the EU's decision, it will always be the responsibility of the United Kingdom to tell us what it wants," Barnier said.

May's talks with the main opposition Labour Party have made little tangible progress, making an imminent breakthrough seem unlikely, but Barnier said he was still hopeful the process could bear fruit.

The EU's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier said Tuesday that the length of any delay to the divorce that the bloc may grant Britain will depend on what plan Prime Minister Theresa May brings to a crunch summit.

The EU's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier said Tuesday that the length of any delay to the divorce that the bloc may grant Britain will depend on what plan Prime Minister Theresa May brings to a crunch summit. The British leader is making a last-gasp diplomatic dash to Paris and Berlin on the eve of an emergency summit in Brussels, where she hopes the other 27 EU chiefs will agree to postpone Brexit to June 30. She needs more time to try to strike a compromise with the opposition that will let Britain's bitterly divided parliament back an orderly divorce plan at the fourth attempt. Without such a delay, the United Kingdom is scheduled to crash out with no deal on Friday. But the EU has already granted one delay -- the original deadline was March 29 -- and negotiator Michel Barnier said May must explain what another postponement would achieve. "The length of the extension must be linked to the purpose -- what it's for -- and that depends on what Mrs May will say to European leaders tomorrow," Barnier told reporters after a meeting of EU Europe ministers to discuss the Brexit crisis. "She is coming back to indicate the way forward, that is what is expected by European leaders... It is for her to bring the roadmap." Barnier insisted it would not be the EU's fault if a chaotic "no deal" departure -- predicted to have a calamitous impact -- came to pass. "No deal will never be the EU's decision, it will always be the responsibility of the United Kingdom to tell us what it wants," Barnier said. May's talks with the main opposition Labour Party have made little tangible progress, making an imminent breakthrough seem unlikely, but Barnier said he was still hopeful the process could bear fruit.

Any Brexit delay depends on Theresa May request: EU's Michel Barnier

UK PM Theresa May releases video statement about Brexit

German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron will host Britain Prime Minister Theresa May Tuesday, on the eve of a crucial EU summit when the British premier is hoping to convince the bloc to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/both-sides-must-compromise-in-cross-party-brexit-talks-british-pm-may-208641">grant her a new Brexit extension to June 30</a>.

Macron and May will are scheduled to meet at 6:00 pm on Tuesday. Then May will be travelling to Berlin to meet Merkel.

"The chancellor and the British prime minister will have an exchange of views on Britain's exit from the EU as well as on Wednesday's special summit of the European Council," said Merkel's spokesman Steffen Seibert.

Steffen Seibert also said that the final decisions for Brexit extensions will be made by all remaining 27 members of the European Union.

But there are "always good reasons in such difficult and highly charged situations in Britain and the EU 27 to first talk to each other before the first deadline," Seibert said.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron will host Britain Prime Minister Theresa May Tuesday, on the eve of a crucial EU summit when the British premier is hoping to convince the bloc to grant her a new Brexit extension to June 30.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron will host Britain Prime Minister Theresa May Tuesday, on the eve of a crucial EU summit when the British premier is hoping to convince the bloc to grant her a new Brexit extension to June 30. Macron and May will are scheduled to meet at 6:00 pm on Tuesday. Then May will be travelling to Berlin to meet Merkel. "The chancellor and the British prime minister will have an exchange of views on Britain's exit from the EU as well as on Wednesday's special summit of the European Council," said Merkel's spokesman Steffen Seibert. Steffen Seibert also said that the final decisions for Brexit extensions will be made by all remaining 27 members of the European Union. But there are "always good reasons in such difficult and highly charged situations in Britain and the EU 27 to first talk to each other before the first deadline," Seibert said.

Macron, Merkel to host Theresa May for Brexit talks on Tuesday

British Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-pm-may-holds-out-possibility-of-compromise-with-opposition-labour-party-208558">Theresa May</a> on Sunday conceded that concluding a Brexit deal with the main opposition will need "compromise on both sides" as she faced criticism for being inflexible.

The embattled leader opened negotiations this week with the Labour Party in a bid to end months of political crisis over her divorce deal struck with European leaders last year but repeatedly rejected by MPs.

However after several days of talks Labour complained May's team were rigid over her plan, while the talks sparked fury among some Conservatives who detest involving leftist leader Jeremy Corbyn.

"We need to get a deal over the line and that's why we've been looking for new ways to find an agreement in parliament -- and that means cross-party talks," May said in a video recorded at her country retreat Chequers.

"There's a lot of things on which I disagree with the Labour Party on policy issues but on Brexit I think there are some things we agree on... so we're talking."

On the prospects of reaching a deal, the prime minister added: "It'll mean compromise on both sides."

Time is running out for May to end Britain's 46 years of European Union membership in an orderly manner.

She will head to an EU summit Wednesday seeking to secure another Brexit extension, until June 30, to prevent Britain crashing out the bloc at the end of next week with no deal.

The country's original March 29 departure date was delayed last month to April 12 amid the paralysis in parliament.

EU members, who must unanimously back any further delay, are growing increasingly impatient at the dysfunction in Westminster and want a clear plan to resolve it.

Depending on what May proposes, they could offer just a shorter postponement -- or a longer period of up to a year.

'Prepared to move' 
Negotiations between the government and Labour are set to resume next week after a weekend of exchanges "clarifying our position", according to shadow business secretary Rebecca Long Bailey.

One of the Labour team in the talks, she told the BBC the lack of compromise so far was "disappointing" but the mood was "quite positive and hopeful".

"We are currently waiting for the government to come back to us now to state whether they are prepared to move on any of their red lines," Long Bailey said.

Labour is pushing for a much closer post-Brexit alliance with the EU, including participation in a customs union.

May has previously dismissed the idea because it bars Britain from striking its own trade deals around the world.

Andrea Leadsom, a senior Brexiteer in her divided cabinet, said the government was talking to Labour "through gritted teeth".

She would not confirm if senior Tory eurosceptics would now accept a customs union, and hinted she would back a no-deal departure over a long delay.

"For me, whatever we deliver, it has to be Brexit," she told the BBC.&nbsp;

British Prime Minister Theresa May on Sunday conceded that concluding a Brexit deal with the main opposition will need "compromise on both sides" as she faced criticism for being inflexible.

British Prime Minister Theresa May on Sunday conceded that concluding a Brexit deal with the main opposition will need "compromise on both sides" as she faced criticism for being inflexible. The embattled leader opened negotiations this week with the Labour Party in a bid to end months of political crisis over her divorce deal struck with European leaders last year but repeatedly rejected by MPs. However after several days of talks Labour complained May's team were rigid over her plan, while the talks sparked fury among some Conservatives who detest involving leftist leader Jeremy Corbyn. "We need to get a deal over the line and that's why we've been looking for new ways to find an agreement in parliament -- and that means cross-party talks," May said in a video recorded at her country retreat Chequers. "There's a lot of things on which I disagree with the Labour Party on policy issues but on Brexit I think there are some things we agree on... so we're talking." On the prospects of reaching a deal, the prime minister added: "It'll mean compromise on both sides." Time is running out for May to end Britain's 46 years of European Union membership in an orderly manner. She will head to an EU summit Wednesday seeking to secure another Brexit extension, until June 30, to prevent Britain crashing out the bloc at the end of next week with no deal. The country's original March 29 departure date was delayed last month to April 12 amid the paralysis in parliament. EU members, who must unanimously back any further delay, are growing increasingly impatient at the dysfunction in Westminster and want a clear plan to resolve it. Depending on what May proposes, they could offer just a shorter postponement -- or a longer period of up to a year. 'Prepared to move' Negotiations between the government and Labour are set to resume next week after a weekend of exchanges "clarifying our position", according to shadow business secretary Rebecca Long Bailey. One of the Labour team in the talks, she told the BBC the lack of compromise so far was "disappointing" but the mood was "quite positive and hopeful". "We are currently waiting for the government to come back to us now to state whether they are prepared to move on any of their red lines," Long Bailey said. Labour is pushing for a much closer post-Brexit alliance with the EU, including participation in a customs union. May has previously dismissed the idea because it bars Britain from striking its own trade deals around the world. Andrea Leadsom, a senior Brexiteer in her divided cabinet, said the government was talking to Labour "through gritted teeth". She would not confirm if senior Tory eurosceptics would now accept a customs union, and hinted she would back a no-deal departure over a long delay. "For me, whatever we deliver, it has to be Brexit," she told the BBC.

'Both sides' must compromise in cross-party Brexit talks: British PM May

Britain's government held out the possibility of compromise on Sunday with the opposition Labour Party to try to win support in parliament for leaving the European Union with a deal, just days before the latest Brexit date.

Prime Minister Theresa May, weaker than ever after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-vote-against-all-alternative-brexit-options-206122">her Brexit deal was rejected by parliament three times</a>, has been forced to turn to Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn after giving up on winning over eurosceptics in her Conservative Party, whose opposition has hardened.

With Britain's departure now set for April 12, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-vote-against-all-alternative-brexit-options-206122">May's government is running out of time</a> to get a deal through Britain's divided parliament, and must come up with a new plan to secure a new delay from EU leaders at a summit on Wednesday.

Britain's biggest shift in foreign and trade policy in more than 40 years is mired in uncertainty, with ministers saying Brexit may never happen, businesses worried the country could leave without a deal, and others just wanting to reverse it.

In a last-ditch bid to get her deal through parliament, May opened talks with Corbyn last week to try to strike a deal on Britain's future ties with the EU in exchange for his support for her divorce deal, the Withdrawal Agreement.

So far those talks have failed to yield any kind of accord, with Labour policy chiefs saying the government has yet to move from its "red lines", above all over a customs union, which sets tariffs for goods imported into the EU.

"Specifically provided we are leaving the European Union then it is important that we compromise, that's what this is about and it is through gritted teeth," said Andrea Leadsom, the Brexit-supporting leader of the House of Commons (lower house of parliament).

"But nevertheless the most important thing is to actually leave the EU," she told the BBC's Andrew Marr show, adding that May's proposal for a customs arrangement after Brexit was not too far from Labour's desire for a customs union.

But, while describing the talks so far as positive, Labour's business policy chief Rebecca Long-Bailey said there had as yet been no "real changes" to the deal.

"I think both sides are committed to working quite rigorously to compromise as much as possible so that we can provide that compromise Brexit deal that I think parliament desperately needs at the moment," she told the BBC.

Shami Chakrabarti, Labour's legal policy chief, was more blunt. "It's hard to imagine that we are going to make real progress now without either a general election or a second referendum on any deal she can get over the line in parliament," she told Sky News.

RUNNING OUT OF TIME

Britain voted by 52 to 48 per cent in 2016 to leave the EU, and parliament, May's cabinet and the country at large remain deeply polarised over the terms of Brexit and even whether to depart at all.

Despite the lack of convergence between the two major parties over a deal, there was one thing they did agree on - time is running out for Brexit to be secured.

May, who has been verbally mauled by members of her own party for turning to Labour, herself warned Brexit-supporting lawmakers that "the longer this takes, the greater the risk of the UK never leaving at all".

In an attempt to avoid falling out of the EU without a deal, she again heads to Brussels this week to ask for a further delay until June 30 — something EU leaders have said requires her setting out an alternative path to getting her deal approved.

Any extension would require unanimous approval from the other EU countries, all weary of Britain's Brexit indecision, and could come with conditions. EU summit chair Donald Tusk plans to propose an extension of a year, which could be shortened if Britain's parliament eventually ratifies the deal.

But even the threat of losing Brexit has so far failed to change the minds of hardline eurosceptic Conservative lawmakers, and some are now suggesting that Britain make the EU's life a misery if Britain is forced to accept a long delay.

"If we are forced to remain in we must be the most difficult member possible," Jacob Rees-Mogg, leader of the European Research Group, a Conservative eurosceptic group, told Sky News.

"When the multi-annual financial framework comes forward, if we're still in, this is our one in seven-year opportunity to veto the budget and to be really very difficult."

Britain's government held out the possibility of compromise on Sunday with the opposition Labour Party to try to win support in parliament for leaving the European Union with a deal, just days before the latest Brexit date.

Britain's government held out the possibility of compromise on Sunday with the opposition Labour Party to try to win support in parliament for leaving the European Union with a deal, just days before the latest Brexit date. Prime Minister Theresa May, weaker than ever after her Brexit deal was rejected by parliament three times, has been forced to turn to Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn after giving up on winning over eurosceptics in her Conservative Party, whose opposition has hardened. With Britain's departure now set for April 12, May's government is running out of time to get a deal through Britain's divided parliament, and must come up with a new plan to secure a new delay from EU leaders at a summit on Wednesday. Britain's biggest shift in foreign and trade policy in more than 40 years is mired in uncertainty, with ministers saying Brexit may never happen, businesses worried the country could leave without a deal, and others just wanting to reverse it. In a last-ditch bid to get her deal through parliament, May opened talks with Corbyn last week to try to strike a deal on Britain's future ties with the EU in exchange for his support for her divorce deal, the Withdrawal Agreement. So far those talks have failed to yield any kind of accord, with Labour policy chiefs saying the government has yet to move from its "red lines", above all over a customs union, which sets tariffs for goods imported into the EU. "Specifically provided we are leaving the European Union then it is important that we compromise, that's what this is about and it is through gritted teeth," said Andrea Leadsom, the Brexit-supporting leader of the House of Commons (lower house of parliament). "But nevertheless the most important thing is to actually leave the EU," she told the BBC's Andrew Marr show, adding that May's proposal for a customs arrangement after Brexit was not too far from Labour's desire for a customs union. But, while describing the talks so far as positive, Labour's business policy chief Rebecca Long-Bailey said there had as yet been no "real changes" to the deal. "I think both sides are committed to working quite rigorously to compromise as much as possible so that we can provide that compromise Brexit deal that I think parliament desperately needs at the moment," she told the BBC. Shami Chakrabarti, Labour's legal policy chief, was more blunt. "It's hard to imagine that we are going to make real progress now without either a general election or a second referendum on any deal she can get over the line in parliament," she told Sky News. RUNNING OUT OF TIME Britain voted by 52 to 48 per cent in 2016 to leave the EU, and parliament, May's cabinet and the country at large remain deeply polarised over the terms of Brexit and even whether to depart at all. Despite the lack of convergence between the two major parties over a deal, there was one thing they did agree on - time is running out for Brexit to be secured. May, who has been verbally mauled by members of her own party for turning to Labour, herself warned Brexit-supporting lawmakers that "the longer this takes, the greater the risk of the UK never leaving at all". In an attempt to avoid falling out of the EU without a deal, she again heads to Brussels this week to ask for a further delay until June 30 — something EU leaders have said requires her setting out an alternative path to getting her deal approved. Any extension would require unanimous approval from the other EU countries, all weary of Britain's Brexit indecision, and could come with conditions. EU summit chair Donald Tusk plans to propose an extension of a year, which could be shortened if Britain's parliament eventually ratifies the deal. But even the threat of losing Brexit has so far failed to change the minds of hardline eurosceptic Conservative lawmakers, and some are now suggesting that Britain make the EU's life a misery if Britain is forced to accept a long delay. "If we are forced to remain in we must be the most difficult member possible," Jacob Rees-Mogg, leader of the European Research Group, a Conservative eurosceptic group, told Sky News. "When the multi-annual financial framework comes forward, if we're still in, this is our one in seven-year opportunity to veto the budget and to be really very difficult."

Brexit: PM May holds out possibility of compromise with opposition Labour party

French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said Saturday that it was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-says-premature-to-discuss-further-brexit-delay-208150">time for the Brexit crisis to end</a>, saying that it couldn't continue to dominate EU discussions.

"It's time that this situation ended," he told reporters on the sidelines of a G7 meeting in Dinard, northern France.

"We can't live constantly with Brexit. At some point, there needs to be a departure.''

"The British authorities and the British parliament need to understand that the European Union is not going to be able to constantly exhaust itself with the ups and downs of domestic British politics."&nbsp;

"The British need to tell us very quickly how they are going to get out of this crisis," he added.

France has sought to ramp up pressure on British Prime Minister Theresa May ahead of an emergency summit meeting of European leaders in Brussels from Wednesday.

French President Emmanuel Macron has said that her request for an extension of the deadline for Brexit would not automatically be accepted, meaning Britain could crash out of the bloc without a deal.&nbsp;

French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said Saturday that it was time for the Brexit crisis to end, saying that it couldn't continue to dominate EU discussions.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said Saturday that it was time for the Brexit crisis to end, saying that it couldn't continue to dominate EU discussions. "It's time that this situation ended," he told reporters on the sidelines of a G7 meeting in Dinard, northern France. "We can't live constantly with Brexit. At some point, there needs to be a departure.'' "The British authorities and the British parliament need to understand that the European Union is not going to be able to constantly exhaust itself with the ups and downs of domestic British politics." "The British need to tell us very quickly how they are going to get out of this crisis," he added. France has sought to ramp up pressure on British Prime Minister Theresa May ahead of an emergency summit meeting of European leaders in Brussels from Wednesday. French President Emmanuel Macron has said that her request for an extension of the deadline for Brexit would not automatically be accepted, meaning Britain could crash out of the bloc without a deal.

France on Brexit: 'Time for this situation to end'

Britain has begun issuing passports with the words "European Union" removed from the front cover -- <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-proposes-brexit-extension-to-end-on-june-30th-pm-theresa-may-to-eu-208119">despite Brexit being delayed</a> and uncertainty over when the country will leave the bloc.

The interior ministry confirmed that some passports introduced from March 30, the day after Britain was originally due to depart, no longer include references to the EU following a 2017 decision.

However, it said some newly-issued travel documents would still bear the bloc's name -- which has sat atop British passport covers -- in a bid to save public money.

"In order to use leftover stock and achieve best value for the taxpayer, passports that include the words 'European Union’ will continue to be issued for a short period," a spokeswoman said.

"There will be no difference for British citizens whether they are using a passport that includes the words European Union, or a passport that does not," she added, noting both designs would be "equally valid for travel".

Britain was set to leave the EU on March 29 but has been forced to delay its exit amid political paralysis in Westminster over the terms of the divorce deal.

Prime Minister Theresa May on Friday was forced to ask the bloc for another extension, until June 30, to prevent the country crashing out next Friday without an accord.

But it is unclear whether the other 27 EU members, which must give unanimous backing, will grant the request or insist on an even longer delay.

British passports have become ensnared in the country's Brexit divisions after the government announced in 2017 it would return to traditional blue passports "to restore national identity".

The travel documents had dark blue covers from 1921, but Britain switched to burgundy from 1988, in common with other passports in what was then the European Community.

Brexit backers are thrilled by the highly symbolic change, while those who support remaining in the bloc have mocked their excitement.

Last year it emerged that Franco-Dutch company Gemalto had won the contract to make the new blue passports, prompting fury from Brexit campaigners and more ridicule from Remainers that a British company was not chosen.

The new production contract is to begin in October 2019, with the passports currently being issued without reference to the EU on them still in the burgundy colour.

Britain has begun issuing passports with the words "European Union" removed from the front cover -- despite Brexit being delayed and uncertainty over when the country will leave the bloc.

Britain has begun issuing passports with the words "European Union" removed from the front cover -- despite Brexit being delayed and uncertainty over when the country will leave the bloc. The interior ministry confirmed that some passports introduced from March 30, the day after Britain was originally due to depart, no longer include references to the EU following a 2017 decision. However, it said some newly-issued travel documents would still bear the bloc's name -- which has sat atop British passport covers -- in a bid to save public money. "In order to use leftover stock and achieve best value for the taxpayer, passports that include the words 'European Union’ will continue to be issued for a short period," a spokeswoman said. "There will be no difference for British citizens whether they are using a passport that includes the words European Union, or a passport that does not," she added, noting both designs would be "equally valid for travel". Britain was set to leave the EU on March 29 but has been forced to delay its exit amid political paralysis in Westminster over the terms of the divorce deal. Prime Minister Theresa May on Friday was forced to ask the bloc for another extension, until June 30, to prevent the country crashing out next Friday without an accord. But it is unclear whether the other 27 EU members, which must give unanimous backing, will grant the request or insist on an even longer delay. British passports have become ensnared in the country's Brexit divisions after the government announced in 2017 it would return to traditional blue passports "to restore national identity". The travel documents had dark blue covers from 1921, but Britain switched to burgundy from 1988, in common with other passports in what was then the European Community. Brexit backers are thrilled by the highly symbolic change, while those who support remaining in the bloc have mocked their excitement. Last year it emerged that Franco-Dutch company Gemalto had won the contract to make the new blue passports, prompting fury from Brexit campaigners and more ridicule from Remainers that a British company was not chosen. The new production contract is to begin in October 2019, with the passports currently being issued without reference to the EU on them still in the burgundy colour.

UK starts issuing passports without 'European Union' on cover

The chairman of European Union leaders Donald Tusk is likely to offer Britain a flexible extension of the date of the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-deal-brexit-day-after-day-more-likely-european-unions-chief-negotiator-207400"> country's exit from the EU </a>of up to one year, with the possibility of leaving sooner, a senior EU official said.

The official said the option could be presented to British Prime Minister Theresa May at the EU summit on Brexit on April 10th in Brussels. If May accepted, Britain would have to hold elections to the European Parliament in May, the official said.

"The only reasonable way out would be a long but flexible extension. I would call it a 'flex tension'," the official said.

"We could give the UK a year-long extension, automatically terminated once the Withdrawal Agreement has been accepted and ratified by the House of Commons," the official said.

"And even if this were not possible, then the UK would still have enough time to rethink its Brexit strategy. A short extension if possible, and a long one if necessary. It seems to be a good scenario for both sides, as it gives the UK all the necessary flexibility while avoiding the need to meet every few weeks to further discuss Brexit extensions," he said.

The chairman of European Union leaders Donald Tusk is likely to offer Britain a flexible extension of the date of the country's exit from the EU of up to one year, with the possibility of leaving sooner, a senior EU official said.

The chairman of European Union leaders Donald Tusk is likely to offer Britain a flexible extension of the date of the country's exit from the EU of up to one year, with the possibility of leaving sooner, a senior EU official said. The official said the option could be presented to British Prime Minister Theresa May at the EU summit on Brexit on April 10th in Brussels. If May accepted, Britain would have to hold elections to the European Parliament in May, the official said. "The only reasonable way out would be a long but flexible extension. I would call it a 'flex tension'," the official said. "We could give the UK a year-long extension, automatically terminated once the Withdrawal Agreement has been accepted and ratified by the House of Commons," the official said. "And even if this were not possible, then the UK would still have enough time to rethink its Brexit strategy. A short extension if possible, and a long one if necessary. It seems to be a good scenario for both sides, as it gives the UK all the necessary flexibility while avoiding the need to meet every few weeks to further discuss Brexit extensions," he said.

European Union's Tusk considering 'flexible' Brexit extension up to one year: Senior official

British police on Thursday warned campaigners and politicians to tone down their rhetoric to avoid inflaming the "febrile" <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-proposes-brexit-extension-to-end-on-june-30th-pm-theresa-may-to-eu-208119">atmosphere around Brexit</a>.

Martin Hewitt, head of the National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC), said public figures should be wary.

"This is highly emotive as an issue as we all know and clearly everyone will have their opinions. But I think there is a responsibility on those individuals that have a platform and have a voice, to communicate in a way that is temperate and is not in any way going to inflame people's views," Martin Hewitt said.

Security has been beefed up around MPs in recent months, particularly anti-Brexit ones, because of heated protests around the British parliament.

"We are in an incredibly febrile atmosphere as a result of the whole EU exit scenario," Hewitt said.

Police said the number of crimes linked to Brexit was still small but rising, going up to 26 last week from 11 the week before. Crimes included malicious communications online, harassment and verbal abuse.

Chief Constable Charlie Hall, the NPCC's lead for operations, also said there would be police support only "if absolutely necessary" in case of Brexit-linked issues such as transport disruption.

Under existing national contingency plans, 10,000 riot-trained officers can be deployed anywhere in the country within 24 hours.

Currently, 1,000 have received extra training so that they can be deployed to Northern Ireland if needed.

The issue of what will happen to the currently free-flowing border between the British province of Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland after Brexit has been particularly contentious.

British police on Thursday warned campaigners and politicians to tone down their rhetoric to avoid inflaming the "febrile" atmosphere around Brexit. Martin Hewitt, head of the National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC), said public figures should be wary.

British police on Thursday warned campaigners and politicians to tone down their rhetoric to avoid inflaming the "febrile" atmosphere around Brexit. Martin Hewitt, head of the National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC), said public figures should be wary. "This is highly emotive as an issue as we all know and clearly everyone will have their opinions. But I think there is a responsibility on those individuals that have a platform and have a voice, to communicate in a way that is temperate and is not in any way going to inflame people's views," Martin Hewitt said. Security has been beefed up around MPs in recent months, particularly anti-Brexit ones, because of heated protests around the British parliament. "We are in an incredibly febrile atmosphere as a result of the whole EU exit scenario," Hewitt said. Police said the number of crimes linked to Brexit was still small but rising, going up to 26 last week from 11 the week before. Crimes included malicious communications online, harassment and verbal abuse. Chief Constable Charlie Hall, the NPCC's lead for operations, also said there would be police support only "if absolutely necessary" in case of Brexit-linked issues such as transport disruption. Under existing national contingency plans, 10,000 riot-trained officers can be deployed anywhere in the country within 24 hours. Currently, 1,000 have received extra training so that they can be deployed to Northern Ireland if needed. The issue of what will happen to the currently free-flowing border between the British province of Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland after Brexit has been particularly contentious.

UK police warn against 'febrile' Brexit rhetoric

A source in French presidency Friday said that it is <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-proposes-brexit-extension-to-end-on-june-30th-pm-theresa-may-to-eu-208119">'premature' to discuss additional delay to Brexit</a>.

France said that London&nbsp;present "a clear plan" that would justify pushing Brexit back again.

France had "taken note" of Britain's formal request Friday for an extension to June 30, the source said, adding: "We are waiting for a credible plan between now and the (EU) summit on April 10, when we will study the request."

"A delay is a tool, but not a solution in itself," the source said.

Prime Minister Theresa May has asked the European Union to delay Britain's departure from the bloc until June 30, with the extension ending earlier if parliament approves her Brexit deal.

Earlier an EU official had said Donald Tusk will suggest to member states Friday that they offer Britain a flexible 12-month Brexit delay to allow it time to prepare an orderly withdrawal.

(With inputs from AFP)

A source in French presidency Friday said that it is 'premature' to discuss additional delay to Brexit. France said that London present "a clear plan" that would justify pushing Brexit back again.

A source in French presidency Friday said that it is 'premature' to discuss additional delay to Brexit. France said that London present "a clear plan" that would justify pushing Brexit back again. France had "taken note" of Britain's formal request Friday for an extension to June 30, the source said, adding: "We are waiting for a credible plan between now and the (EU) summit on April 10, when we will study the request." "A delay is a tool, but not a solution in itself," the source said. Prime Minister Theresa May has asked the European Union to delay Britain's departure from the bloc until June 30, with the extension ending earlier if parliament approves her Brexit deal. Earlier an EU official had said Donald Tusk will suggest to member states Friday that they offer Britain a flexible 12-month Brexit delay to allow it time to prepare an orderly withdrawal. (With inputs from AFP)

France says 'premature' to discuss further Brexit delay

Prime Minister Theresa May has asked the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-is-getting-so-stressful-uk-mps-are-being-offered-counselling-208022"> European Union to delay Britain's </a>departure from the bloc until June 30, with the extension ending earlier if parliament approves her Brexit deal.

"The United Kingdom proposes that (the extension) should end on June 30th, 2019. If the parties are able to ratify before this date, the government proposes that the period should be terminated earlier," May wrote in a letter to EU Council president Donald Tusk.

Earlier an EU official had said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brussels-increasingly-wary-of-long-brexit-delay-207574">Donald Tusk will suggest</a> to member states Friday that they offer Britain a flexible 12-month Brexit delay to allow it time to prepare an orderly withdrawal.

"This is Tusk's idea," a senior EU official told AFP, confirming news reports. "It will be presented to member states today."

As things stand, Britain is due to leave the European Union at midnight on April 12 next week. Under the suggested extension, Britain would be able to delay this.

If the House of Commons ratifies the withdrawal agreement that Prime Minister Theresa May has already signed with the EU members, London could leave before the year is up.

But if Britain is still a member when the bloc holds elections to the European Parliament on May 23, it will need to take part in the poll and send another batch of MEPs to Strasbourg.

Prime Minister Theresa May has asked the European Union to delay Britain's departure from the bloc until June 30, with the extension ending earlier if parliament approves her Brexit deal.

Prime Minister Theresa May has asked the European Union to delay Britain's departure from the bloc until June 30, with the extension ending earlier if parliament approves her Brexit deal. "The United Kingdom proposes that (the extension) should end on June 30th, 2019. If the parties are able to ratify before this date, the government proposes that the period should be terminated earlier," May wrote in a letter to EU Council president Donald Tusk. Earlier an EU official had said Donald Tusk will suggest to member states Friday that they offer Britain a flexible 12-month Brexit delay to allow it time to prepare an orderly withdrawal. "This is Tusk's idea," a senior EU official told AFP, confirming news reports. "It will be presented to member states today." As things stand, Britain is due to leave the European Union at midnight on April 12 next week. Under the suggested extension, Britain would be able to delay this. If the House of Commons ratifies the withdrawal agreement that Prime Minister Theresa May has already signed with the EU members, London could leave before the year is up. But if Britain is still a member when the bloc holds elections to the European Parliament on May 23, it will need to take part in the poll and send another batch of MEPs to Strasbourg.

UK proposes Brexit extension to end on June 30: PM Theresa May to EU

The prospect of Britain holding European elections would have been unthinkable just weeks ago but with the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-unions-tusk-considering-flexible-brexit-extension-up-to-one-year-senior-official-208089"> Brexit timetable now uncertain</a>, the country is reluctantly planning for a possible campaign.

Village halls and schools across the country are being booked as polling centres, and orders placed with specialist stationers for tens of millions of ballots in case the May 23 vote goes ahead.

The government has yet to give formal notice of the poll, with the deadline next Friday, but this week agreed to pay for initial preparations.

And after Prime Minister Theresa May&nbsp;admitted she would seek to again delay Brexit, amid continuing deadlock over her plan to leave, officials believe such notice is inevitable.

"If we were to still be a member of the EU, which is not our government's intention, but if we were, we would need to have European Parliament elections," Brexit Secretary Steve Barclay told MPs on Thursday.

Yet both the ruling Conservatives and the main opposition Labour Party are keeping quiet about any campaign plans, wary of how voters might respond.

Zombie election

May has previously said it would be "unacceptable" to ask Britons to take part in the elections three years after they voted to leave the European Union.

Her spokesman emphasised that once called, Britain could still cancel the polls up until May 22 if it has secured a deal to leave the EU by then.

This would cause anger in Brussels, not least because 27 of Britain's 73 MEPs have already been reallocated to other countries.

And it leaves Conservative candidates in the unenviable position of asking voters to back them in an election they themselves do not want, and still may not happen.

"That is not a conversation I relish having on the doorsteps of my constituency," said the party's leader in the European Parliament, Ashley Fox.

He said polls predicted voters would punish the Tories for betraying them on Brexit, with the best prediction suggesting it would lose half its 20 MEPs.

"It could be worse if our members decide they do not want to spend their evenings and weekends promoting a zombie election," he wrote on the ConservativeHome website.

Superhuman effort

Election officials, who would normally have begun planning for the European polls before Christmas, are now under intense pressure.

After pressing the government for weeks, ministers finally confirmed on Monday they would reimburse costs of preparations that were strictly necessary.

The process of booking venues and ordering stationery is now underway -- a mammoth task.

At the last European elections in 2014, they sent out 7.2 million postal votes, printed 46.5 million poll cards and had 39,000 polling stations.

Letters must also be sent out to more than three million EU citizens living in Britain to ask if they want to vote here or in their home country.

Laura Lock, deputy chief executive of the Association of Electoral Administrators, told AFP her members would do what was necessary, but that it would require a "superhuman effort".

Return of Farage

The Conservative Party has so far refused to confirm what it is doing to select or field candidates for the elections, while Labour says only that it is "making contingency plans".

But smaller parties sense an opportunity.

The Scottish National Party (SNP) which wants to reverse the whole Brexit process, said it would contest any election "very vigorously".

The newly formed Independent Group, made up of pro-European former Conservative and Labour MPs, last week applied to the election authorities to be allowed to take part.

And Nigel Farage, a lead campaigner in the 2016 EU referendum, has said he would stand for his new Brexit party.

He condemned May's delay as the latest "Brexit betrayal" and said: "It is now clear we will have to fight our political classes again. I'm up for it."

European elections in Britain are typically marked by poor turnout, but Lock acknowledged Brexit could change this.&nbsp;

"People are planning for a higher turnout," she said.

The prospect of Britain holding European elections would have been unthinkable just weeks ago but with the Brexit timetable now uncertain, the country is reluctantly planning for a possible campaign.

The prospect of Britain holding European elections would have been unthinkable just weeks ago but with the Brexit timetable now uncertain, the country is reluctantly planning for a possible campaign. Village halls and schools across the country are being booked as polling centres, and orders placed with specialist stationers for tens of millions of ballots in case the May 23 vote goes ahead. The government has yet to give formal notice of the poll, with the deadline next Friday, but this week agreed to pay for initial preparations. And after Prime Minister Theresa May admitted she would seek to again delay Brexit, amid continuing deadlock over her plan to leave, officials believe such notice is inevitable. "If we were to still be a member of the EU, which is not our government's intention, but if we were, we would need to have European Parliament elections," Brexit Secretary Steve Barclay told MPs on Thursday. Yet both the ruling Conservatives and the main opposition Labour Party are keeping quiet about any campaign plans, wary of how voters might respond. Zombie election May has previously said it would be "unacceptable" to ask Britons to take part in the elections three years after they voted to leave the European Union. Her spokesman emphasised that once called, Britain could still cancel the polls up until May 22 if it has secured a deal to leave the EU by then. This would cause anger in Brussels, not least because 27 of Britain's 73 MEPs have already been reallocated to other countries. And it leaves Conservative candidates in the unenviable position of asking voters to back them in an election they themselves do not want, and still may not happen. "That is not a conversation I relish having on the doorsteps of my constituency," said the party's leader in the European Parliament, Ashley Fox. He said polls predicted voters would punish the Tories for betraying them on Brexit, with the best prediction suggesting it would lose half its 20 MEPs. "It could be worse if our members decide they do not want to spend their evenings and weekends promoting a zombie election," he wrote on the ConservativeHome website. Superhuman effort Election officials, who would normally have begun planning for the European polls before Christmas, are now under intense pressure. After pressing the government for weeks, ministers finally confirmed on Monday they would reimburse costs of preparations that were strictly necessary. The process of booking venues and ordering stationery is now underway -- a mammoth task. At the last European elections in 2014, they sent out 7.2 million postal votes, printed 46.5 million poll cards and had 39,000 polling stations. Letters must also be sent out to more than three million EU citizens living in Britain to ask if they want to vote here or in their home country. Laura Lock, deputy chief executive of the Association of Electoral Administrators, told AFP her members would do what was necessary, but that it would require a "superhuman effort". Return of Farage The Conservative Party has so far refused to confirm what it is doing to select or field candidates for the elections, while Labour says only that it is "making contingency plans". But smaller parties sense an opportunity. The Scottish National Party (SNP) which wants to reverse the whole Brexit process, said it would contest any election "very vigorously". The newly formed Independent Group, made up of pro-European former Conservative and Labour MPs, last week applied to the election authorities to be allowed to take part. And Nigel Farage, a lead campaigner in the 2016 EU referendum, has said he would stand for his new Brexit party. He condemned May's delay as the latest "Brexit betrayal" and said: "It is now clear we will have to fight our political classes again. I'm up for it." European elections in Britain are typically marked by poor turnout, but Lock acknowledged Brexit could change this. "People are planning for a higher turnout," she said.

On the quiet, UK prepares for 'zombie' European polls

Brexit is confusing. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-vote-against-all-alternative-brexit-options-206122">Is the United Kingdom going to leave the European Union or not</a>? When is it going to leave? And is it going to leave with a deal or not?&nbsp;For now, nobody seems to know.&nbsp;

What we do know is that it all seems to be getting fairly stressful.&nbsp;

The Daily Telegraph has reported that House of Commons Deputy Speaker Lindsay Hoyle has written to all British MPs to inform them that a 24-hour counselling phone line has been made available to them.

"It is vital that in times of heightened stress in the workplace we can access the necessary health and wellbeing support," Hoyle wrote.

"Members of Parliament and staff are resilient but Brexit has meant we are all working very long hours for extended periods of time whilst facing extraordinary pressure.

"In order to fulfil our duties and do our work on behalf of constituents we must take care of our health and wellbeing," Hoyle wrote in his letter.

Hoyle said anyone ringing the confidential phone line would find trained counsellors or advisers.

"Your needs will be discussed and together you will agree what support is required," he said.

"This could be immediate support given there and then or it may be agreed structured counselling is required".&nbsp;

Britain has been a part of the European Union since 1973. It decided in a referendum held on June 23, 2016 that it would leave.&nbsp;

The leaving date had been March 29 but the exit deal UK Prime Minister Theresa May thrashed out with the European Union has been voted down three times by Parliament. For now, the leaving date has been pushed back to April 12 and while May has met with Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-may-to-meet-opposition-leader-corbyn-but-deal-could-tear-her-party-apart-207740">to try and reach an agreement</a> that would allow her deal to be voted through, there is still no certainty for now on what will happen next.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from AFP)

Brexit is confusing. Is the United Kingdom going to leave the European Union or not? When is it going to leave? And is it going to leave with a deal or not? For now, nobody seems to know.

Brexit is confusing. Is the United Kingdom going to leave the European Union or not? When is it going to leave? And is it going to leave with a deal or not? For now, nobody seems to know. What we do know is that it all seems to be getting fairly stressful. The Daily Telegraph has reported that House of Commons Deputy Speaker Lindsay Hoyle has written to all British MPs to inform them that a 24-hour counselling phone line has been made available to them. "It is vital that in times of heightened stress in the workplace we can access the necessary health and wellbeing support," Hoyle wrote. "Members of Parliament and staff are resilient but Brexit has meant we are all working very long hours for extended periods of time whilst facing extraordinary pressure. "In order to fulfil our duties and do our work on behalf of constituents we must take care of our health and wellbeing," Hoyle wrote in his letter. Hoyle said anyone ringing the confidential phone line would find trained counsellors or advisers. "Your needs will be discussed and together you will agree what support is required," he said. "This could be immediate support given there and then or it may be agreed structured counselling is required". Britain has been a part of the European Union since 1973. It decided in a referendum held on June 23, 2016 that it would leave. The leaving date had been March 29 but the exit deal UK Prime Minister Theresa May thrashed out with the European Union has been voted down three times by Parliament. For now, the leaving date has been pushed back to April 12 and while May has met with Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn to try and reach an agreement that would allow her deal to be voted through, there is still no certainty for now on what will happen next. (With inputs from AFP)

Brexit is getting so stressful, UK MPs are being offered counselling

British Prime Minister Theresa May on Wednesday afternoon met with opposition Labor Party leader Jeremy Corbyn as part of her efforts to end Brexit impasse, but it seems that Corbyn is not in a rush to make a deal, according to experts.

Fraser Cameron, senior advisor of the European Policy Center, shared his views at the program Global Insight on the China Global Television Network (CGTN).

"It is obviously different this time in that she's reaching to the Labor Party, something that she should have done obviously two years ago. Having said that, I don't think Mr Corbyn is going to be [in] any rush to make a deal with Mrs May, because I don't think he wants the Labor Party tarnished with the Brexit brush," said Cameron.

"They want the Conservative Party to own this Brexit deal, and then Labor will hopefully win an early election. That is the strategy for Mr. Corbyn. I think there's a better chance, however, of getting a deal through parliament next week, which is the second alternative that Theresa May put to the nation last night," Cameron added.

Thom Brooks, professor of law and government at Durham University, said in the program that the problem of the United Kingdom is about a withdrawal agreement instead of a trade deal. He said that the Conservatives are divided over the Brexit deal, which makes the situation even worse.

"This big disagreement, this problem that Britain is in right now, is not about any trade deal, it's about a withdrawal agreement, it's about agreeing to the terms of leaving the European Union, not about the terms of the new wonderful trade deal that many who campaigned for Brexit were hoping to be moving on to. The largest party in parliament, the Conservatives, they are this divided as to what they want. It seems you get three people in the room, you get three different views as to what Brexit means. And the way they have been publicly attacking leaders of the European Union does not bode well for the kind of trade deals that they want to have in the future. So I think it is very much political," said Brooks.

In addition, Cameron said the EU will agree to extend the Brexit deadline again.

"There are two main reasons for this. One, they don't want to be blamed for no deal. So I think that's a very important concern, even for the French. Secondly, a no-deal will be extremely sort of damaging to the EU, as well as the UK. It is obviously, damage to UK more, but they don't want to have to go through all the very bad repercussions of a no-deal," Cameron said.

"I think if they want an extension, and I think this time what will be a lengthy extension, I think Britain will have to take part in the European Parliament elections in May, but at the end of the day, I think everybody will prefer the UK to stay in, rather than to actually leave. So there may be conditions attached to the decision next week, but I think in general, they will agree to an extension," said Cameron.

British Prime Minister Theresa May on Wednesday afternoon met with opposition Labor Party leader Jeremy Corbyn as part of her efforts to end Brexit impasse, but it seems that Corbyn is not in a rush to make a deal, according to experts.

British Prime Minister Theresa May on Wednesday afternoon met with opposition Labor Party leader Jeremy Corbyn as part of her efforts to end Brexit impasse, but it seems that Corbyn is not in a rush to make a deal, according to experts. Fraser Cameron, senior advisor of the European Policy Center, shared his views at the program Global Insight on the China Global Television Network (CGTN). "It is obviously different this time in that she's reaching to the Labor Party, something that she should have done obviously two years ago. Having said that, I don't think Mr Corbyn is going to be [in] any rush to make a deal with Mrs May, because I don't think he wants the Labor Party tarnished with the Brexit brush," said Cameron. "They want the Conservative Party to own this Brexit deal, and then Labor will hopefully win an early election. That is the strategy for Mr. Corbyn. I think there's a better chance, however, of getting a deal through parliament next week, which is the second alternative that Theresa May put to the nation last night," Cameron added. Thom Brooks, professor of law and government at Durham University, said in the program that the problem of the United Kingdom is about a withdrawal agreement instead of a trade deal. He said that the Conservatives are divided over the Brexit deal, which makes the situation even worse. "This big disagreement, this problem that Britain is in right now, is not about any trade deal, it's about a withdrawal agreement, it's about agreeing to the terms of leaving the European Union, not about the terms of the new wonderful trade deal that many who campaigned for Brexit were hoping to be moving on to. The largest party in parliament, the Conservatives, they are this divided as to what they want. It seems you get three people in the room, you get three different views as to what Brexit means. And the way they have been publicly attacking leaders of the European Union does not bode well for the kind of trade deals that they want to have in the future. So I think it is very much political," said Brooks. In addition, Cameron said the EU will agree to extend the Brexit deadline again. "There are two main reasons for this. One, they don't want to be blamed for no deal. So I think that's a very important concern, even for the French. Secondly, a no-deal will be extremely sort of damaging to the EU, as well as the UK. It is obviously, damage to UK more, but they don't want to have to go through all the very bad repercussions of a no-deal," Cameron said. "I think if they want an extension, and I think this time what will be a lengthy extension, I think Britain will have to take part in the European Parliament elections in May, but at the end of the day, I think everybody will prefer the UK to stay in, rather than to actually leave. So there may be conditions attached to the decision next week, but I think in general, they will agree to an extension," said Cameron.

UK's Labor Party unlikely to make deal with May quickly, say experts

British Prime Minister Theresa May was set to seek a Brexit compromise with opposition leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-soldiers-used-labour-leader-photo-for-target-practice-army-says-its-probing-207709">Jeremy Corbyn</a> on Wednesday, a gamble that could see a European Union divorce deal finally clear parliament but also tear her party apart.

The United Kingdom was supposed to leave the EU last Friday, but, three years after Britons narrowly voted for Brexit in a referendum, it is still unclear how, when or even whether it will exit the bloc.

After her EU withdrawal deal was rejected three times by lawmakers, with parliament and her Conservative Party hopelessly divided over Brexit, May said she would talk to the Labour Party leader in a bid to overcome what is now a national crisis.

"There are actually a number of areas we agree on in relation to Brexit ... what we want to do now is to find a way forward that can command the support of this House and deliver on Brexit," May told parliament.

However, by approaching Corbyn, a veteran socialist loathed by many of May's Conservatives and mocked by May herself as unfit to govern, she risks further inflaming divisions in her party. One minister quit on Wednesday.

"It now seems that you and your cabinet have decided that a deal - cooked up with a Marxist who has never once in his political life put British interests first - is better than 'no- deal'," Nigel Adams said as he resigned as a minister for Wales.

May turned to Labour after a hardcore eurosceptic group of Conservatives repeatedly rejected her divorce deal, saying it would leave Britain a 'vassal state'.

Labour wants to stay in a customs union with the EU, raising the likelihood of a "soft" Brexit option that keeps Britain's economy closely aligned to the world's biggest trading bloc.

Brexit Secretary Stephen Barclay said the government would accept a soft Brexit if parliament voted for it.

Sterling hit its highest level since March 28.&nbsp;

SHORT DELAY?

May said on Tuesday she would seek "as short as possible" a delay to the current Brexit date of April 12, having repeatedly said she did not want Britain to have to take part in European Parliament elections on May 23.

Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney said Ireland would support a delay but Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz said there was currently no reason to agree an extension.

And European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker said Britain would not get any further short delays to Brexit unless its parliament ratified a deal by April 12 - the date set by EU leaders as the effective cut-off for avoiding the European Parliament elections.

"A 'no-deal' at midnight on the 12th of April is now a very likely scenario," he told the European Parliament.

He reiterated that Britain would not get a transition period to soften the impact of leaving the EU unless it ratified the exit deal: "UK will be affected more than EU because there is no such thing as a 'managed or negotiated no-deal' and there is no such thing as a 'no-deal transition'."

As things stand, Britain will still leave the EU on April 12 without a deal, a scenario many Conservative lawmakers would welcome, but that businesses fear could cause huge economic damage.

A survey of services firms ranging from banks to high-street hairdressers on Wednesday suggested the world's fifth-biggest economy was likely to shrink in the coming months because of Brexit uncertainty.

May and Corbyn will meet at 1330 GMT but may struggle to find a compromise position that can satisfy their own parties.

"I realise some of you will be concerned about the government discussing the way forward with the opposition," May said in a letter to Conservative lawmakers on Wednesday.

"However, with some colleagues unwilling to support the government ... this is the only way to deliver the smooth, orderly Brexit that we promised."

Conservative divisions over Europe are decades old and have led to the demise of three prime ministers: David Cameron, John Major and Margaret Thatcher.

'IT'S A TRAP'

Labour is also far from united. Corbyn, who voted against joining the bloc in 1975, has said Brexit should include a customs union with the EU and protection for consumer and environmental standards and workers’ rights.

Many supporters want the party to throw its weight behind a second referendum. But some Labour lawmakers who represent areas that voted strongly to leave the EU not only reject this but also fear that a 'soft' Brexit would be seen as a betrayal.

A Labour spokesman said the party was ready for serious discussion if May was ready to relax the 'red lines' she had so far set in negotiations.

Corbyn said any agreement that he struck with May - who has promised to resign if a Brexit deal is passed - must be set in law to guarantee that it could not be changed by any successor.

Pro-EU Labour lawmaker Ben Bradshaw warned: "It is clearly a trap designed to try to get May’s terrible deal through, which some people have fallen for, but Labour mustn’t."

It is also unclear where May's last-ditch bid will leave her minority government. The Democratic Unionist Party, the small Northern Irish party whose support she needs to govern, said it was wary of making any deal with a man whom many in May's party have demonised.

"I would simply counsel my government and my party and my prime minister: 'Stop, think very carefully what you are doing'," former Conservative leader Iain Duncan Smith told BBC TV.

"If you give legitimacy to a man that I think is genuinely not fit to run Britain and will do it damage, you will damage the very prospects of your own party and, most importantly for people like me, the prospects for our country."

British Prime Minister Theresa May was set to seek a Brexit compromise with opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn on Wednesday, a gamble that could see a European Union divorce deal finally clear parliament but also tear her party apart.

British Prime Minister Theresa May was set to seek a Brexit compromise with opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn on Wednesday, a gamble that could see a European Union divorce deal finally clear parliament but also tear her party apart. The United Kingdom was supposed to leave the EU last Friday, but, three years after Britons narrowly voted for Brexit in a referendum, it is still unclear how, when or even whether it will exit the bloc. After her EU withdrawal deal was rejected three times by lawmakers, with parliament and her Conservative Party hopelessly divided over Brexit, May said she would talk to the Labour Party leader in a bid to overcome what is now a national crisis. "There are actually a number of areas we agree on in relation to Brexit ... what we want to do now is to find a way forward that can command the support of this House and deliver on Brexit," May told parliament. However, by approaching Corbyn, a veteran socialist loathed by many of May's Conservatives and mocked by May herself as unfit to govern, she risks further inflaming divisions in her party. One minister quit on Wednesday. "It now seems that you and your cabinet have decided that a deal - cooked up with a Marxist who has never once in his political life put British interests first - is better than 'no- deal'," Nigel Adams said as he resigned as a minister for Wales. May turned to Labour after a hardcore eurosceptic group of Conservatives repeatedly rejected her divorce deal, saying it would leave Britain a 'vassal state'. Labour wants to stay in a customs union with the EU, raising the likelihood of a "soft" Brexit option that keeps Britain's economy closely aligned to the world's biggest trading bloc. Brexit Secretary Stephen Barclay said the government would accept a soft Brexit if parliament voted for it. Sterling hit its highest level since March 28. SHORT DELAY? May said on Tuesday she would seek "as short as possible" a delay to the current Brexit date of April 12, having repeatedly said she did not want Britain to have to take part in European Parliament elections on May 23. Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney said Ireland would support a delay but Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz said there was currently no reason to agree an extension. And European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker said Britain would not get any further short delays to Brexit unless its parliament ratified a deal by April 12 - the date set by EU leaders as the effective cut-off for avoiding the European Parliament elections. "A 'no-deal' at midnight on the 12th of April is now a very likely scenario," he told the European Parliament. He reiterated that Britain would not get a transition period to soften the impact of leaving the EU unless it ratified the exit deal: "UK will be affected more than EU because there is no such thing as a 'managed or negotiated no-deal' and there is no such thing as a 'no-deal transition'." As things stand, Britain will still leave the EU on April 12 without a deal, a scenario many Conservative lawmakers would welcome, but that businesses fear could cause huge economic damage. A survey of services firms ranging from banks to high-street hairdressers on Wednesday suggested the world's fifth-biggest economy was likely to shrink in the coming months because of Brexit uncertainty. May and Corbyn will meet at 1330 GMT but may struggle to find a compromise position that can satisfy their own parties. "I realise some of you will be concerned about the government discussing the way forward with the opposition," May said in a letter to Conservative lawmakers on Wednesday. "However, with some colleagues unwilling to support the government ... this is the only way to deliver the smooth, orderly Brexit that we promised." Conservative divisions over Europe are decades old and have led to the demise of three prime ministers: David Cameron, John Major and Margaret Thatcher. 'IT'S A TRAP' Labour is also far from united. Corbyn, who voted against joining the bloc in 1975, has said Brexit should include a customs union with the EU and protection for consumer and environmental standards and workers’ rights. Many supporters want the party to throw its weight behind a second referendum. But some Labour lawmakers who represent areas that voted strongly to leave the EU not only reject this but also fear that a 'soft' Brexit would be seen as a betrayal. A Labour spokesman said the party was ready for serious discussion if May was ready to relax the 'red lines' she had so far set in negotiations. Corbyn said any agreement that he struck with May - who has promised to resign if a Brexit deal is passed - must be set in law to guarantee that it could not be changed by any successor. Pro-EU Labour lawmaker Ben Bradshaw warned: "It is clearly a trap designed to try to get May’s terrible deal through, which some people have fallen for, but Labour mustn’t." It is also unclear where May's last-ditch bid will leave her minority government. The Democratic Unionist Party, the small Northern Irish party whose support she needs to govern, said it was wary of making any deal with a man whom many in May's party have demonised. "I would simply counsel my government and my party and my prime minister: 'Stop, think very carefully what you are doing'," former Conservative leader Iain Duncan Smith told BBC TV. "If you give legitimacy to a man that I think is genuinely not fit to run Britain and will do it damage, you will damage the very prospects of your own party and, most importantly for people like me, the prospects for our country."

Brexit: May to meet opposition leader Corbyn but a deal, if reached, could tear her party apart

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-approves-anti-submarine-helicopter-sale-to-india-207615">US</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-approves-anti-submarine-helicopter-sale-to-india-207615"> approves 24 anti-submarine helicopter sale to India worth $2.6 billion</a>

The United States said Tuesday it had approved the sale of 24 MH-60R helicopters to India, significantly boosting its emerging ally's firepower to target submarines as China expands in the Indian Ocean.

The United States said Tuesday it had approved the sale of 24 MH-60R helicopters to India, significantly boosting its emerging ally's firepower to target submarines as China expands in the Indian Ocean.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-theresa-may-seeks-new-brexit-delay-to-approve-deal-207606">British PM Theresa May seeks new Brexit delay to approve </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-theresa-may-seeks-new-brexit-delay-to-approve-deal-207606">deal</a>

Prime Minister Theresa May said Tuesday she would ask the EU to delay Brexit again to avoid Britain crashing out of the bloc next week, signalling she could accept a closer relationship with Europe to break months of political deadlock.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuelas-guaido-stripped-of-immunity-can-face-prosecution-official-207607">Venezuela's Constituent Assembly strips Guaido of immunity, may face prosecution</a>

Venezuela's ruling Constituent Assembly stripped opposition leader Juan Guaido's immunity Tuesday and authorised the crisis-hit country's high court to criminally prosecute him for usurpation of functions.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-woman-arrested-at-trumps-resort-with-malware-on-thumb-drive-207610">Chinese woman arrested at Trump's resort with malware on </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-woman-arrested-at-trumps-resort-with-malware-on-thumb-drive-207610">thumb</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-woman-arrested-at-trumps-resort-with-malware-on-thumb-drive-207610"> drive</a>

A Chinese woman carrying multiple cellphones and a thumb drive containing malware was arrested on Saturday at US President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida while he was staying there, court documents revealed Tuesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/english-premier-league-wolverhampton-wanderers-topple-manchester-united-207613">English Premier League: Wolverhampton Wanderers topple Manchester United</a>

Wolverhampton Wanderers repeated their FA Cup defeat of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's Manchester United thanks to a Chris Smalling own goal that gave them a 2-1 comeback win in a pulsating Premier League game on Tuesday.

US approves 24 anti-submarine helicopter sale to India worth $2.6 billion The United States said Tuesday it had approved the sale of 24 MH-60R helicopters to India, significantly boosting its emerging ally's firepower to target submarines as China expands in the Indian Ocean.

US approves 24 anti-submarine helicopter sale to India worth $2.6 billion The United States said Tuesday it had approved the sale of 24 MH-60R helicopters to India, significantly boosting its emerging ally's firepower to target submarines as China expands in the Indian Ocean. The United States said Tuesday it had approved the sale of 24 MH-60R helicopters to India, significantly boosting its emerging ally's firepower to target submarines as China expands in the Indian Ocean. British PM Theresa May seeks new Brexit delay to approve deal Prime Minister Theresa May said Tuesday she would ask the EU to delay Brexit again to avoid Britain crashing out of the bloc next week, signalling she could accept a closer relationship with Europe to break months of political deadlock. Venezuela's Constituent Assembly strips Guaido of immunity, may face prosecution Venezuela's ruling Constituent Assembly stripped opposition leader Juan Guaido's immunity Tuesday and authorised the crisis-hit country's high court to criminally prosecute him for usurpation of functions. Chinese woman arrested at Trump's resort with malware on thumb drive A Chinese woman carrying multiple cellphones and a thumb drive containing malware was arrested on Saturday at US President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida while he was staying there, court documents revealed Tuesday. English Premier League: Wolverhampton Wanderers topple Manchester United Wolverhampton Wanderers repeated their FA Cup defeat of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's Manchester United thanks to a Chris Smalling own goal that gave them a 2-1 comeback win in a pulsating Premier League game on Tuesday.

News brief: Big stories of the day

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-lawmakers-to-try-to-force-pm-may-to-seek-further-brexit-delay-207516">Prime Minister Theresa May</a> said Tuesday she would ask the EU to delay <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-deal-brexit-day-after-day-more-likely-european-unions-chief-negotiator-207400">Brexit again to avoid Britain crashing out of the bloc next week</a>, signalling she could accept a closer relationship with Europe to break months of political deadlock.

After more than seven hours of talks with her ministers, May said she would request a delay that was "as short as possible and which ends when we pass a deal" through the British parliament.

In a move which enraged the Brexit-supporting wing of her Conservative Party, she also offered to work with the leader of the main opposition Labour Party, Jeremy Corbyn, who favours closer ties with the European Union.

"This is a decisive moment in the story of these islands. And it requires national unity to deliver the national interest," May said in a televised address.

Corbyn responded saying he was "very happy" to meet.

Brussels has set Britain an April 12 deadline to either pass the divorce deal it agreed with May four months ago, settle on an alternative, or leave the EU without an agreement.

In reality, the deadline is even closer as the EU has called an emergency leaders summit for April 10.

EU president Donald Tusk responded cautiously to May's statement, saying: "Even if, after today, we don't know what the end result will be, let us be patient."

Break the logjam

Britain voted by 52 to 48 per cent to leave the EU in the 2016 referendum. However, the exit process has only exacerbated divisions among the public and politicians, including May's cabinet.

Her statement follows weeks of turmoil.&nbsp;

MPs have rejected May's divorce deal three times, but after seizing control of the process, were unable to come up with their own plan.

May said she was "taking action to break the logjam".

She noted calls in her own party for Britain simply to end its 46-year-old membership of the bloc without any agreement with the EU, but she said that "leaving with a deal is the best solution".

May said she believed her existing deal was still necessary for an orderly Brexit, but offered to talk to Labour about a new plan for future trade ties.

Corbyn has called for a new customs union with the EU and close alignment to the bloc's single market, two things that until now, May has strongly opposed.

"I recognise my responsibility," Corbyn said, stressing that the most important issue was "to make sure we don't crash out of the EU next week with no deal".

Corbyn said any new proposals could be voted on by parliament "early next week".

If May and Corbyn could agree on a plan that MPs supported, the prime minister said she hoped to take it to the April 10 Brussels summit.

If not, she promised to allow MPs to direct what she does, expressing hope that Britain could still leave with a deal before May 22, so it did not have to take part in European Parliament elections.

The political chaos has already forced May to ask the EU to postpone the original Brexit date of March 29, but European leaders have warned they will not delay Brexit indefinitely.

French President Emmanuel Macron said Tuesday that while he was "open" to a lengthy delay on certain conditions, it was "neither certainty nor automatic".

The EU's chief Brexit negotiator, Michel Barnier, warned that the other 27 EU nations were prepared for a "no deal" situation, and "it becomes day after day more likely".

Future relationship&nbsp;

The EU has repeatedly refused to renegotiate the Brexit divorce deal it agreed with May last November after almost two years of negotiations but has said it could revise the accompanying political declaration on future relations.

"What we need to focus on is our future relationship with the EU," May said of her talks with Corbyn.

Key Conservative Brexit-backers slammed May's move.

Former foreign secretary Boris Johnson said it was "very disappointing" that Corbyn was being given a key role in the Brexit process.

Jacob Rees-Mogg MP suggested the Labour leader could undermine the referendum.

"Getting the support of a known Marxist is not likely to instil confidence in Conservatives," he said.

Prime Minister Theresa May said Tuesday she would ask the EU to delay Brexit again to avoid Britain crashing out of the bloc next week, signalling she could accept a closer relationship with Europe to break months of political deadlock.

Prime Minister Theresa May said Tuesday she would ask the EU to delay Brexit again to avoid Britain crashing out of the bloc next week, signalling she could accept a closer relationship with Europe to break months of political deadlock. After more than seven hours of talks with her ministers, May said she would request a delay that was "as short as possible and which ends when we pass a deal" through the British parliament. In a move which enraged the Brexit-supporting wing of her Conservative Party, she also offered to work with the leader of the main opposition Labour Party, Jeremy Corbyn, who favours closer ties with the European Union. "This is a decisive moment in the story of these islands. And it requires national unity to deliver the national interest," May said in a televised address. Corbyn responded saying he was "very happy" to meet. Brussels has set Britain an April 12 deadline to either pass the divorce deal it agreed with May four months ago, settle on an alternative, or leave the EU without an agreement. In reality, the deadline is even closer as the EU has called an emergency leaders summit for April 10. EU president Donald Tusk responded cautiously to May's statement, saying: "Even if, after today, we don't know what the end result will be, let us be patient." Break the logjam Britain voted by 52 to 48 per cent to leave the EU in the 2016 referendum. However, the exit process has only exacerbated divisions among the public and politicians, including May's cabinet. Her statement follows weeks of turmoil. MPs have rejected May's divorce deal three times, but after seizing control of the process, were unable to come up with their own plan. May said she was "taking action to break the logjam". She noted calls in her own party for Britain simply to end its 46-year-old membership of the bloc without any agreement with the EU, but she said that "leaving with a deal is the best solution". May said she believed her existing deal was still necessary for an orderly Brexit, but offered to talk to Labour about a new plan for future trade ties. Corbyn has called for a new customs union with the EU and close alignment to the bloc's single market, two things that until now, May has strongly opposed. "I recognise my responsibility," Corbyn said, stressing that the most important issue was "to make sure we don't crash out of the EU next week with no deal". Corbyn said any new proposals could be voted on by parliament "early next week". If May and Corbyn could agree on a plan that MPs supported, the prime minister said she hoped to take it to the April 10 Brussels summit. If not, she promised to allow MPs to direct what she does, expressing hope that Britain could still leave with a deal before May 22, so it did not have to take part in European Parliament elections. The political chaos has already forced May to ask the EU to postpone the original Brexit date of March 29, but European leaders have warned they will not delay Brexit indefinitely. French President Emmanuel Macron said Tuesday that while he was "open" to a lengthy delay on certain conditions, it was "neither certainty nor automatic". The EU's chief Brexit negotiator, Michel Barnier, warned that the other 27 EU nations were prepared for a "no deal" situation, and "it becomes day after day more likely". Future relationship The EU has repeatedly refused to renegotiate the Brexit divorce deal it agreed with May last November after almost two years of negotiations but has said it could revise the accompanying political declaration on future relations. "What we need to focus on is our future relationship with the EU," May said of her talks with Corbyn. Key Conservative Brexit-backers slammed May's move. Former foreign secretary Boris Johnson said it was "very disappointing" that Corbyn was being given a key role in the Brexit process. Jacob Rees-Mogg MP suggested the Labour leader could undermine the referendum. "Getting the support of a known Marxist is not likely to instil confidence in Conservatives," he said.

British PM Theresa May seeks new Brexit delay to approve deal

The European Union's chief negotiator Michel Barnier warned Tuesday it is "day after day more likely" that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-parliament-remains-divided-on-brexit-options-207308">Britain will crash out of the bloc</a> without an orderly withdrawal agreement next week.

Barnier was addressing a think tank in Brussels the day after British lawmakers again failed to unite behind any alternative to the Brexit withdrawal agreement Prime Minister Theresa May signed last year.

"No deal was never our desired nor intended scenario. No deal was never my intended scenario, but the EU 27 is now prepared. It becomes day after day more likely," Barnier told the audience.

"Let's not forget first that we have already an agreement, we have already a deal, and it was concluded by Theresa May and the British government and the European Council and European Parliament on November 25 last year, four months ago," he said.

"We tried to make sure that the UK could leave the EU on March 29, just as the UK had foreseen itself... If the UK still wants to leave the EU in an orderly manner, this agreement, this treaty is and will be the only one."

The European Union's chief negotiator Michel Barnier warned Tuesday it is "day after day more likely" that Britain will crash out of the bloc without an orderly withdrawal agreement next week.

The European Union's chief negotiator Michel Barnier warned Tuesday it is "day after day more likely" that Britain will crash out of the bloc without an orderly withdrawal agreement next week. Barnier was addressing a think tank in Brussels the day after British lawmakers again failed to unite behind any alternative to the Brexit withdrawal agreement Prime Minister Theresa May signed last year. "No deal was never our desired nor intended scenario. No deal was never my intended scenario, but the EU 27 is now prepared. It becomes day after day more likely," Barnier told the audience. "Let's not forget first that we have already an agreement, we have already a deal, and it was concluded by Theresa May and the British government and the European Council and European Parliament on November 25 last year, four months ago," he said. "We tried to make sure that the UK could leave the EU on March 29, just as the UK had foreseen itself... If the UK still wants to leave the EU in an orderly manner, this agreement, this treaty is and will be the only one."

No-deal Brexit 'day after day more likely': European Union's chief negotiator

Gravitas: Are referendums healthy for democracy?

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - April 2nd, 2019

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