Donald Trump praises Theresa May as Brexit battle continous

Brexit in quotes: What UK leaders have said since 2016 referendum

British MP's vote on 8 alternatives, agree on none

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning, March 28th, 2019

Asian share markets were painted red on Thursday as recession concerns sent bond yields spiralling lower across the globe, overwhelming central bank efforts to calm frayed nerves.

Sterling was also hit by another bout of Brexit blues after a round of votes in the UK parliament failed to produce any new plan to manage its divorce from the European Union.

A Reuters report that the United States and China had made progress in all areas in trade talks had a little obvious impact since sticking points still remained and there was no definite timetable for a deal.

MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan slipped 0.3 per cent, with South Korea down 0.7 per cent and Shanghai blue chips slipping 0.3 per cent.

Japan's Nikkei fell 1.7 per cent. US stocks could not escape the malaise with E-Mini futures for the S&amp;P 500 off 0.5 per cent.

Worries that the inversion of the US Treasury curve signalled a future recession only deepened as 10-year yields fell to a fresh 15-month low at 2.34 per cent.

"We think that the ongoing flattening, or outright inversion, of the curve is a bad sign for equities, as it usually has been in the past," said Oliver Jones, markets economist at Capital Economics.

"Arguments that the yield curve is no longer a reliable indicator seem to resurface every time it inverts, only to be subsequently proved wrong."

The latest lunge lower was led by German bunds where 10-year yields dived deeper into negative territory after European Central Bank President Mario Draghi said a hike in interest rates could be further delayed.

Plans to mitigate the side-effects of negative interest rates could also be considered, suggesting the central bank was preparing for an extended period below zero.

That shift came hot on the heels of a dovish surprise on Wednesday from the Reserve Bank of New Zealand, which abandoned its neutral bias to say the next rate move would likely be down.

Yields in both New Zealand and neighbour Australia quickly sank to record lows in response.

The RBNZ explicitly cited all the easing moves by other central banks as a reason for its turnaround since they had put unwanted upward pressure on the local dollar.

Easing goes global

That is one reason markets are wagering the Reserve Bank of Australia will also be forced to cut rates, simply to stop its currency from appreciating. Policy easing then becomes a self-fulfilling cycle across the world.

"The continued dovish shift by G7 central banks, ongoing support by the Chinese authorities, and the move by the RBNZ will keep pressure on the RBA to also move in the same direction, however reluctantly," said Su-Lin Ong, head of Australian and New Zealand strategy at RBC Capital Markets.

"It is, essentially, a global policy cycle."

The RBNZ's action had the desired effect on its currency, which was pinned at $0.6786 after diving 1.6 per cent overnight. The Aussie was on the defensive at $0.7078.

Draghi's comments likewise tugged the euro back to $1.1245, and left the US dollar firmer against a basket of its competitors at 96.909.

Only the yen held its own thanks to its safe-haven status and firmed to 110.20 per dollar.

Sterling had its own troubles as an offer by British Prime Minister Theresa May to quit to get her European Union deal through parliament failed, leaving uncertainty hanging over the Brexit process.

That left the pound down at $1.3170, having been as high as $1.3269 at one point on Wednesday.

In commodity markets, palladium was the focus of attention after sliding 7 per cent on Wednesday as its meteoric rally finally ran into profit-taking. It was down 0.4 per cent on Thursday.

Gold was relatively sedated at $1,308.37 per ounce.

Oil prices nursed modest losses after data showed US crude inventories grew more than expected last week as a Texas chemical spill hampered exports.

US crude was last down 21 cents at $59.14 a barrel, while Brent crude futures lost 21 cents to $67.62.

Asian share markets were painted red on Thursday as recession concerns sent bond yields spiralling lower across the globe, overwhelming central bank efforts to calm frayed nerves.

Asian share markets were painted red on Thursday as recession concerns sent bond yields spiralling lower across the globe, overwhelming central bank efforts to calm frayed nerves. Sterling was also hit by another bout of Brexit blues after a round of votes in the UK parliament failed to produce any new plan to manage its divorce from the European Union. A Reuters report that the United States and China had made progress in all areas in trade talks had a little obvious impact since sticking points still remained and there was no definite timetable for a deal. MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan slipped 0.3 per cent, with South Korea down 0.7 per cent and Shanghai blue chips slipping 0.3 per cent. Japan's Nikkei fell 1.7 per cent. US stocks could not escape the malaise with E-Mini futures for the S&P 500 off 0.5 per cent. Worries that the inversion of the US Treasury curve signalled a future recession only deepened as 10-year yields fell to a fresh 15-month low at 2.34 per cent. "We think that the ongoing flattening, or outright inversion, of the curve is a bad sign for equities, as it usually has been in the past," said Oliver Jones, markets economist at Capital Economics. "Arguments that the yield curve is no longer a reliable indicator seem to resurface every time it inverts, only to be subsequently proved wrong." The latest lunge lower was led by German bunds where 10-year yields dived deeper into negative territory after European Central Bank President Mario Draghi said a hike in interest rates could be further delayed. Plans to mitigate the side-effects of negative interest rates could also be considered, suggesting the central bank was preparing for an extended period below zero. That shift came hot on the heels of a dovish surprise on Wednesday from the Reserve Bank of New Zealand, which abandoned its neutral bias to say the next rate move would likely be down. Yields in both New Zealand and neighbour Australia quickly sank to record lows in response. The RBNZ explicitly cited all the easing moves by other central banks as a reason for its turnaround since they had put unwanted upward pressure on the local dollar. Easing goes global That is one reason markets are wagering the Reserve Bank of Australia will also be forced to cut rates, simply to stop its currency from appreciating. Policy easing then becomes a self-fulfilling cycle across the world. "The continued dovish shift by G7 central banks, ongoing support by the Chinese authorities, and the move by the RBNZ will keep pressure on the RBA to also move in the same direction, however reluctantly," said Su-Lin Ong, head of Australian and New Zealand strategy at RBC Capital Markets. "It is, essentially, a global policy cycle." The RBNZ's action had the desired effect on its currency, which was pinned at $0.6786 after diving 1.6 per cent overnight. The Aussie was on the defensive at $0.7078. Draghi's comments likewise tugged the euro back to $1.1245, and left the US dollar firmer against a basket of its competitors at 96.909. Only the yen held its own thanks to its safe-haven status and firmed to 110.20 per dollar. Sterling had its own troubles as an offer by British Prime Minister Theresa May to quit to get her European Union deal through parliament failed, leaving uncertainty hanging over the Brexit process. That left the pound down at $1.3170, having been as high as $1.3269 at one point on Wednesday. In commodity markets, palladium was the focus of attention after sliding 7 per cent on Wednesday as its meteoric rally finally ran into profit-taking. It was down 0.4 per cent on Thursday. Gold was relatively sedated at $1,308.37 per ounce. Oil prices nursed modest losses after data showed US crude inventories grew more than expected last week as a Texas chemical spill hampered exports. US crude was last down 21 cents at $59.14 a barrel, while Brent crude futures lost 21 cents to $67.62.

Bond yields spiral lower, take stocks along for the ride

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-vote-against-all-alternative-brexit-options-206122">British MPs vote against all alternative Brexit options</a>

British MPs on Wednesday voted against eight alternative Brexit options aimed at overcoming the deadlock over Prime Minister Theresa May's unpopular European Union divorce deal.

The biggest vote against was against a second referendum.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sets-up-un-clash-with-china-over-bid-to-blacklist-jaish-e-mohammed-chief-masood-azhar-206142">Masood Azhar listing as global terrorist: </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sets-up-un-clash-with-china-over-bid-to-blacklist-jaish-e-mohammed-chief-masood-azhar-206142">US</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sets-up-un-clash-with-china-over-bid-to-blacklist-jaish-e-mohammed-chief-masood-azhar-206142"> circulates </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sets-up-un-clash-with-china-over-bid-to-blacklist-jaish-e-mohammed-chief-masood-azhar-206142">draft</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sets-up-un-clash-with-china-over-bid-to-blacklist-jaish-e-mohammed-chief-masood-azhar-206142"> resolution to United Nations Security Council</a>

The United States on Wednesday circulated a draft resolution to the UN Security Council that would blacklist the leader of a Pakistan-based Islamist group as a terrorist, setting up a potential clash with China over the move.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uss-pompeo-saddened-by-italy-joining-chinas-belt-and-road-project-206132">US's Pompeo 'saddened' by Italy joining China's Belt and Road project</a>

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo voiced disappointment Wednesday after Italy joined China's "Silk Road" network of transport and trade links, saying it was not in the ally's long-term interest.

Rome's populist government signed a "non-binding" protocol with visiting President Xi Jinping on Saturday that made Italy the first nation in the Group of Seven major economies to become part of the signature Chinese project.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brunei-to-punish-gay-sex-and-adultery-with-death-by-stoning-206138">Brunei to punish gay sex and adultery with death by stoning</a>

Adultery and gay sex in Brunei will be subject to death by stoning from next week, authorities said, under a strict Sharia law that has been on hold for four years amid heavy criticism.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-saudi-trial-detained-women-speak-of-torture-abuse-206126">Saudi women activists say they were sexually abused, tortured while detained</a>

Saudi women activists detained for almost a year offered their defence at an emotionally charged hearing on Wednesday, alleging torture and sexual harassment during interrogation, courtroom sources said.

British MPs vote against all alternative Brexit options British MPs on Wednesday voted against eight alternative Brexit options aimed at overcoming the deadlock over Prime Minister Theresa May's unpopular European Union divorce deal.

British MPs vote against all alternative Brexit options British MPs on Wednesday voted against eight alternative Brexit options aimed at overcoming the deadlock over Prime Minister Theresa May's unpopular European Union divorce deal. The biggest vote against was against a second referendum. Masood Azhar listing as global terrorist: US circulates draft resolution to United Nations Security Council The United States on Wednesday circulated a draft resolution to the UN Security Council that would blacklist the leader of a Pakistan-based Islamist group as a terrorist, setting up a potential clash with China over the move. US's Pompeo 'saddened' by Italy joining China's Belt and Road project US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo voiced disappointment Wednesday after Italy joined China's "Silk Road" network of transport and trade links, saying it was not in the ally's long-term interest. Rome's populist government signed a "non-binding" protocol with visiting President Xi Jinping on Saturday that made Italy the first nation in the Group of Seven major economies to become part of the signature Chinese project. Brunei to punish gay sex and adultery with death by stoning Adultery and gay sex in Brunei will be subject to death by stoning from next week, authorities said, under a strict Sharia law that has been on hold for four years amid heavy criticism. Saudi women activists say they were sexually abused, tortured while detained Saudi women activists detained for almost a year offered their defence at an emotionally charged hearing on Wednesday, alleging torture and sexual harassment during interrogation, courtroom sources said.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The British pound gyrated Wednesday, initially rallying on Prime Minister Theresa May's dramatic appeal for her Brexit plan but later walking back the gains.

May pledged to step down if parliament backs her EU divorce deal, a vow that immediately boosted the British currency against the dollar and euro.

The dramatic gambit, just ahead of votes on last-minute Brexit alternatives to replace May's twice-rejected deal, pushed the British pound to close to $1.3270.&nbsp;

However, the pound was back down at $1.3189 at 2100 GMT as the prospects for May's plan still looked dicey, with the hard-line Democratic Unionist Party in Northern Ireland continuing to balk at the proposal.

British MPs also voted late Wednesday against eight alternative Brexit options aimed at overcoming the deadlock over May's unpopular divorce deal.

The latest Brexit travails came on a mixed day for global stocks, with Wall Street again wobbling on worries about slowing global growth.

Investors have been weighing how seriously to view a big drop in 10-year US Treasury bond yields in recent session, traditionally a sign of medium- and long-term economic weakness.

The yield on the 10-year US Treasury note on Wednesday fell to its lowest level since December 2017.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average dipped 0.1 percent to finish at 25,625.59, about 200 points above its session lows earlier in the day.

"Buyers showed up during the second part of the session," said Adam Sarhan of 50 Park Investment, who considers the market's jitters over bond yields overblown.

But "if the bond market is right, then the stock market can go down further," Sarhan added.

Among individual companies, Boeing rose 1.0 percent &nbsp;as it unveiled proposed changes to flight software on its 737 MAX aircraft, which have been grounded following two deadly plane crashes in five months.&nbsp;

Boeing's plan came as the head of the Federal Aviation Administration, which must approve the fixes, faced tough questioning from Congress concerning its certification of the planes.

Earlier, European equities finished little changed, while Asian equities mostly rose.

The British pound gyrated Wednesday, initially rallying on Prime Minister Theresa May's dramatic appeal for her Brexit plan but later walking back the gains. May pledged to step down if parliament backs her EU divorce deal, a vow that immediately boosted the British currency against the dollar and euro.

The British pound gyrated Wednesday, initially rallying on Prime Minister Theresa May's dramatic appeal for her Brexit plan but later walking back the gains. May pledged to step down if parliament backs her EU divorce deal, a vow that immediately boosted the British currency against the dollar and euro. The dramatic gambit, just ahead of votes on last-minute Brexit alternatives to replace May's twice-rejected deal, pushed the British pound to close to $1.3270. However, the pound was back down at $1.3189 at 2100 GMT as the prospects for May's plan still looked dicey, with the hard-line Democratic Unionist Party in Northern Ireland continuing to balk at the proposal. British MPs also voted late Wednesday against eight alternative Brexit options aimed at overcoming the deadlock over May's unpopular divorce deal. The latest Brexit travails came on a mixed day for global stocks, with Wall Street again wobbling on worries about slowing global growth. Investors have been weighing how seriously to view a big drop in 10-year US Treasury bond yields in recent session, traditionally a sign of medium- and long-term economic weakness. The yield on the 10-year US Treasury note on Wednesday fell to its lowest level since December 2017. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dipped 0.1 percent to finish at 25,625.59, about 200 points above its session lows earlier in the day. "Buyers showed up during the second part of the session," said Adam Sarhan of 50 Park Investment, who considers the market's jitters over bond yields overblown. But "if the bond market is right, then the stock market can go down further," Sarhan added. Among individual companies, Boeing rose 1.0 percent as it unveiled proposed changes to flight software on its 737 MAX aircraft, which have been grounded following two deadly plane crashes in five months. Boeing's plan came as the head of the Federal Aviation Administration, which must approve the fixes, faced tough questioning from Congress concerning its certification of the planes. Earlier, European equities finished little changed, while Asian equities mostly rose.

Sterling gyrates as British PM puts job on line

Brexit: No majority for any options after MPs' votes

British MPs on Wednesday voted against eight alternative <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/heres-how-brexit-endgame-could-play-out-205678">Brexit options</a> aimed at overcoming the deadlock over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-step-down-before-next-phase-of-brexit-negotiations-pm-theresa-may-to-mps-206112">Prime Minister Theresa May</a>'s unpopular European Union divorce deal.

The biggest vote against was against a&nbsp;second referendum.

A call to enter a customs union with the European Union meanwhile fared the best, losing by 272-264, while members voted 295-268 against a motion requiring the eventual Withdrawal Agreement to be submitted to a referendum.

The option of revoking the United Kingdom's Article 50 declaration that it intended to leave the bloc was defeated by 109 votes.

At the other end of the spectrum, 240 members opposed the idea of a no-deal Brexit.

The options being voted on included negotiating for closer economic ties with the EU after Brexit, holding a public vote on any deal or stopping Brexit altogether.

Earlier, May told her conservative lawmakers that she would step down before the "next phase" of Brexit negotiations.

MPs have twice rejected May's Brexit deal, both times by large majorities, but she is still trying to convince them and on Wednesday made what is expected to be her final offer.

"I know there is a desire for a new approach -- and new leadership -- in the second phase of the Brexit negotiations and I won't stand in the way of that," she told a packed meeting of her Conservative MPs.

"But we need to get the deal through and deliver Brexit. I am prepared to leave this job earlier than I intended in order to do what is right for our country and our party."

(With inputs from agencies)

British MPs on Wednesday voted against eight alternative Brexit options aimed at overcoming the deadlock over Prime Minister Theresa May's unpopular European Union divorce deal.

British MPs on Wednesday voted against eight alternative Brexit options aimed at overcoming the deadlock over Prime Minister Theresa May's unpopular European Union divorce deal. The biggest vote against was against a second referendum. A call to enter a customs union with the European Union meanwhile fared the best, losing by 272-264, while members voted 295-268 against a motion requiring the eventual Withdrawal Agreement to be submitted to a referendum. The option of revoking the United Kingdom's Article 50 declaration that it intended to leave the bloc was defeated by 109 votes. At the other end of the spectrum, 240 members opposed the idea of a no-deal Brexit. The options being voted on included negotiating for closer economic ties with the EU after Brexit, holding a public vote on any deal or stopping Brexit altogether. Earlier, May told her conservative lawmakers that she would step down before the "next phase" of Brexit negotiations. MPs have twice rejected May's Brexit deal, both times by large majorities, but she is still trying to convince them and on Wednesday made what is expected to be her final offer. "I know there is a desire for a new approach -- and new leadership -- in the second phase of the Brexit negotiations and I won't stand in the way of that," she told a packed meeting of her Conservative MPs. "But we need to get the deal through and deliver Brexit. I am prepared to leave this job earlier than I intended in order to do what is right for our country and our party." (With inputs from agencies)

British MPs vote against all alternative Brexit options

The EU on Thursday urged London to provide a way forward on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-vote-against-all-alternative-brexit-options-206122">Brexit</a>, taking note that the British Parliament had failed to agree a fresh solution to the UK's divorce from the bloc.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/heres-how-brexit-endgame-could-play-out-205678"> What in the world is going on with Brexit?</a>

"The European Commission takes note of the indicative votes in the House of Commons last night. This is part of an ongoing political process in the UK, which we fully respect," EU spokesman Margaritis Schinas said.

"We counted eight 'no's last night, now we need a 'yes' on the way forward," he added.

Schinas was referring to the parliament's unprecedented step on Tuesday of voting a choice of alternate solutions to the near-dead divorce deal May reached with Brussels after 17 months of talks.

But none of the eight options secured a majority and another vote has been set for Monday on some of the proposals.

A proposal to hold a second referendum -- a popular idea with EU supporters -- came second while those promoting a cleaner break finished near the bottom.

Belgian Prime Minister Charles Michel told journalists in Brussels that without a solution from Britain, EU leaders would meet again on April 10 or 11 to discuss next steps.

EU leaders last week offered Britain a Brexit extension until May 22, but only on condition that parliament votes through the deal by Friday, the day Britain was originally scheduled to leave the European Union.

The May government said Wednesday it wanted a third vote on the EU deal on Friday, but the outcome remained uncertain.

If the vote fails a third time, May will have to spell out to EU leaders what steps Britain will take by a deadline of April 12, or risk crashing out of the bloc without any arrangements in place.

The EU on Thursday urged London to provide a way forward on Brexit, taking note that the British Parliament had failed to agree a fresh solution to the UK's divorce from the bloc.

The EU on Thursday urged London to provide a way forward on Brexit, taking note that the British Parliament had failed to agree a fresh solution to the UK's divorce from the bloc. Also read: What in the world is going on with Brexit? "The European Commission takes note of the indicative votes in the House of Commons last night. This is part of an ongoing political process in the UK, which we fully respect," EU spokesman Margaritis Schinas said. "We counted eight 'no's last night, now we need a 'yes' on the way forward," he added. Schinas was referring to the parliament's unprecedented step on Tuesday of voting a choice of alternate solutions to the near-dead divorce deal May reached with Brussels after 17 months of talks. But none of the eight options secured a majority and another vote has been set for Monday on some of the proposals. A proposal to hold a second referendum -- a popular idea with EU supporters -- came second while those promoting a cleaner break finished near the bottom. Belgian Prime Minister Charles Michel told journalists in Brussels that without a solution from Britain, EU leaders would meet again on April 10 or 11 to discuss next steps. EU leaders last week offered Britain a Brexit extension until May 22, but only on condition that parliament votes through the deal by Friday, the day Britain was originally scheduled to leave the European Union. The May government said Wednesday it wanted a third vote on the EU deal on Friday, but the outcome remained uncertain. If the vote fails a third time, May will have to spell out to EU leaders what steps Britain will take by a deadline of April 12, or risk crashing out of the bloc without any arrangements in place.

EU 'needs yes' on Brexit after UK MPs vote no

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-vote-against-all-alternative-brexit-options-206122">Britain's government</a> said it intended to hold a third parliamentary vote on Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit deal on Friday but was awaiting the go-ahead from House of Commons speaker.

"We recognise that any motion brought forward tomorrow will need to be compliant with the speaker's ruling and that discussion is ongoing," Andrea Leadsom, who represents the government in parliament, told MPs.

"A motion will be tabled just as soon as possible and obviously by later today," Leadsom said Thursday.

Commons Speaker John Bercow has previously blocked a third vote on the deal, invoking a 17th-century statute that prevents parliament from voting on the same thing again and again.

"The only way we ensure we leave in good time on May 22 is by approving the withdrawal agreement by 11:00 pm on March 29," she said.

Leadsom pointed out that EU leaders had granted an extension until May 22 "provided that the withdrawal agreement is approved by the House of Commons this week".

 
&nbsp;

Britain's government said it intended to hold a third parliamentary vote on Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit deal on Friday but was awaiting the go-ahead from House of Commons speaker.

Britain's government said it intended to hold a third parliamentary vote on Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit deal on Friday but was awaiting the go-ahead from House of Commons speaker. "We recognise that any motion brought forward tomorrow will need to be compliant with the speaker's ruling and that discussion is ongoing," Andrea Leadsom, who represents the government in parliament, told MPs. "A motion will be tabled just as soon as possible and obviously by later today," Leadsom said Thursday. Commons Speaker John Bercow has previously blocked a third vote on the deal, invoking a 17th-century statute that prevents parliament from voting on the same thing again and again. "The only way we ensure we leave in good time on May 22 is by approving the withdrawal agreement by 11:00 pm on March 29," she said. Leadsom pointed out that EU leaders had granted an extension until May 22 "provided that the withdrawal agreement is approved by the House of Commons this week".

UK government plans third Brexit deal vote on Friday

British PM Theresa May has told <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-diffrences-tusk-urges-eu-parliament-to-be-open-to-long-brexit-extension-206032">Conservative MPs</a> that she will be stepping down&nbsp;before the "next phase" of Brexit negotiations as the prime minister readied a last ditch effort to win over rebels in her party.

Reports say eight options have been picked by the Speaker for an indicative vote tonight.

May said "she would not remain in post for the next phase of the negotiations," Conservative Party MP James Cartlidge said.

The British prime minister has been facing heat from her own party in her attempt to push the Brexit deal with the EU giving her reprieve till May 22, however, the deal needs to be passed by&nbsp;the British Parliament by April 12th otherwise the country could crash out of the EU with a no-deal.

Amid the confusing Brexit battle, lawmakers on Wednesday took control of the so-called indicative votes on Brexit, with eight options ranging from leaving abruptly with no-deal to revoking the divorce papers or holding a new referendum.

Earlier in the day, European Council chief Donald Tusk had urged the European Parliament to be open to a long extension and not to ignore those British people who wanted to remain in the EU.

Nearly six million people have signed a petition in the past week calling for Britain to cancel Brexit. Hundreds of thousands marched on Saturday in London to demand a new referendum.

May had told lawmakers that she could fulfil her pledge to take Britain out of the European Union if they backed her divorce deal this week.

The government has said it will only bring the twice-defeated deal back to parliament for another vote if it believes it will be successful. The EU agreed to delay Brexit until May 22 if parliament agrees the deal this week.

May faced accusation from Andrew Bridgen, a member of her own Conservative party who supports a hard Brexit, for not keeping her promise to leave the European Union on March 29 and hence losing confidence from his constituents. "They will never trust the prime minister again," he told parliament.

In response, May said: "We can guarantee delivering on Brexit if, this week, he and others in this house supports the deal."

British PM Theresa May has told Conservative MPs that she will be stepping down before the "next phase" of Brexit negotiations as the prime minister readied a last ditch effort to win over rebels in her party.

British PM Theresa May has told Conservative MPs that she will be stepping down before the "next phase" of Brexit negotiations as the prime minister readied a last ditch effort to win over rebels in her party. Reports say eight options have been picked by the Speaker for an indicative vote tonight. May said "she would not remain in post for the next phase of the negotiations," Conservative Party MP James Cartlidge said. The British prime minister has been facing heat from her own party in her attempt to push the Brexit deal with the EU giving her reprieve till May 22, however, the deal needs to be passed by the British Parliament by April 12th otherwise the country could crash out of the EU with a no-deal. Amid the confusing Brexit battle, lawmakers on Wednesday took control of the so-called indicative votes on Brexit, with eight options ranging from leaving abruptly with no-deal to revoking the divorce papers or holding a new referendum. Earlier in the day, European Council chief Donald Tusk had urged the European Parliament to be open to a long extension and not to ignore those British people who wanted to remain in the EU. Nearly six million people have signed a petition in the past week calling for Britain to cancel Brexit. Hundreds of thousands marched on Saturday in London to demand a new referendum. May had told lawmakers that she could fulfil her pledge to take Britain out of the European Union if they backed her divorce deal this week. The government has said it will only bring the twice-defeated deal back to parliament for another vote if it believes it will be successful. The EU agreed to delay Brexit until May 22 if parliament agrees the deal this week. May faced accusation from Andrew Bridgen, a member of her own Conservative party who supports a hard Brexit, for not keeping her promise to leave the European Union on March 29 and hence losing confidence from his constituents. "They will never trust the prime minister again," he told parliament. In response, May said: "We can guarantee delivering on Brexit if, this week, he and others in this house supports the deal."

Will step down before next phase of Brexit negotiations: PM Theresa May to MPs

British MPs are set to hold a series of votes Wednesday on different Brexit options in a bid to break paralysis in parliament on the issue.

Three years after Britain decided to leave the European Union, lawmakers have become deadlocked on how -- or even whether -- the country should proceed with its departure from the bloc.

More than a dozen amendments covering an array of scenarios have been put forward, with parliamentary speaker John Bercow first set to choose which will be voted on. &nbsp;

Some build on Prime Minister Theresa May's twice-rejected divorce deal while others offer stark alternatives -- including leaving without a deal and stopping Brexit altogether.&nbsp;

Here are the main options being considered:

Customs union

Several of the proposals advocate Britain remaining in the EU customs union -- likely after adopting May's withdrawal plan and its implementation period to the end of 2020.&nbsp;

Committing fully to the customs union would end the dispute over her deal's provisions for the Irish border, ensuring it remains open after Brexit.

This option is favoured by the main opposition Labour Party -- alongside close alignment to the EU single market -- as well as cross-party groups of MPs.

But opponents argue it would hinder Britain's ability to strike trade deals with countries around the world, and the Conservative Party manifesto vowed Britain would leave the customs union.

Norwegian model

Although outside the EU, energy-rich Norway is in the European Economic Area (EEA) -- alongside Iceland and Liechtenstein -- meaning they benefit from membership of the single market but do not have a say in the making of its rules.

They must also allow the free movement of goods, capital, services and people -- the EU's four freedoms -- with member states.

However, they are not in the customs union.

Some British lawmakers pushing this approach have also proposed that London adds comprehensive customs arrangements with the EU, in a plan dubbed "Common Market 2.0".

Its advantages are Britain's large services sector -- including the financial hub in the capital -- would be undisturbed, while goods trade, including across the contentious Irish border, could continue unimpeded.

But critics say it would leave Britain hostage to EU rules, and also fall foul of the promise of the Brexit campaign to limit immigration.

Second Brexit referendum

Many Remain-backing MPs see a second referendum as the most viable path towards preventing Brexit, while others believe it could simply break the stalemate.

However, there has never been clarity over what the referendum would ask, other than the cross-party People's Vote campaign insisting that staying in the EU must be one of the choices.

A compromise put forward by some Labour MPs calls only for "a confirmatory public vote" on any government deal reached with the EU -- including the prime minister's current plan.

That could garner more support than a vote earlier this month when a majority of MPs rejected postponing the Brexit date in order to hold another referendum.

Cancel Brexit

The most dramatic option would be to cancel Brexit altogether by revoking Article 50, the departure mechanism that set a two-year clock ticking down to March 29, Britain's original exit day.

With two of the amendments urging this measure to avoid a no-deal departure, Bercow may give MPs the chance to vote on the option.

No-deal

If no alternative course can be agreed, Britain will default to "third country" status with the EU as early as April 12, with trade relations run on World Trade Organization (WTO) rules.

This involves tariffs and increased barriers that could disrupt the seamless supply chains that connect Britain and the EU.

Lawmakers have already voted overwhelmingly to reject this option, meaning the speaker is doubtful to pick a new amendment Wednesday again calling for it. 
&nbsp;

British MPs are set to hold a series of votes Wednesday on different Brexit options in a bid to break paralysis in parliament on the issue. Three years after Britain decided to leave the European Union, lawmakers have become deadlocked on how -- or even whether -- the country should proceed with its departure from the bloc.

British MPs are set to hold a series of votes Wednesday on different Brexit options in a bid to break paralysis in parliament on the issue. Three years after Britain decided to leave the European Union, lawmakers have become deadlocked on how -- or even whether -- the country should proceed with its departure from the bloc. More than a dozen amendments covering an array of scenarios have been put forward, with parliamentary speaker John Bercow first set to choose which will be voted on. Some build on Prime Minister Theresa May's twice-rejected divorce deal while others offer stark alternatives -- including leaving without a deal and stopping Brexit altogether. Here are the main options being considered: Customs union Several of the proposals advocate Britain remaining in the EU customs union -- likely after adopting May's withdrawal plan and its implementation period to the end of 2020. Committing fully to the customs union would end the dispute over her deal's provisions for the Irish border, ensuring it remains open after Brexit. This option is favoured by the main opposition Labour Party -- alongside close alignment to the EU single market -- as well as cross-party groups of MPs. But opponents argue it would hinder Britain's ability to strike trade deals with countries around the world, and the Conservative Party manifesto vowed Britain would leave the customs union. Norwegian model Although outside the EU, energy-rich Norway is in the European Economic Area (EEA) -- alongside Iceland and Liechtenstein -- meaning they benefit from membership of the single market but do not have a say in the making of its rules. They must also allow the free movement of goods, capital, services and people -- the EU's four freedoms -- with member states. However, they are not in the customs union. Some British lawmakers pushing this approach have also proposed that London adds comprehensive customs arrangements with the EU, in a plan dubbed "Common Market 2.0". Its advantages are Britain's large services sector -- including the financial hub in the capital -- would be undisturbed, while goods trade, including across the contentious Irish border, could continue unimpeded. But critics say it would leave Britain hostage to EU rules, and also fall foul of the promise of the Brexit campaign to limit immigration. Second Brexit referendum Many Remain-backing MPs see a second referendum as the most viable path towards preventing Brexit, while others believe it could simply break the stalemate. However, there has never been clarity over what the referendum would ask, other than the cross-party People's Vote campaign insisting that staying in the EU must be one of the choices. A compromise put forward by some Labour MPs calls only for "a confirmatory public vote" on any government deal reached with the EU -- including the prime minister's current plan. That could garner more support than a vote earlier this month when a majority of MPs rejected postponing the Brexit date in order to hold another referendum. Cancel Brexit The most dramatic option would be to cancel Brexit altogether by revoking Article 50, the departure mechanism that set a two-year clock ticking down to March 29, Britain's original exit day. With two of the amendments urging this measure to avoid a no-deal departure, Bercow may give MPs the chance to vote on the option. No-deal If no alternative course can be agreed, Britain will default to "third country" status with the EU as early as April 12, with trade relations run on World Trade Organization (WTO) rules. This involves tariffs and increased barriers that could disrupt the seamless supply chains that connect Britain and the EU. Lawmakers have already voted overwhelmingly to reject this option, meaning the speaker is doubtful to pick a new amendment Wednesday again calling for it.

The alternative Brexit options

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/all-countries-should-will-uphold-peace-tranquility-in-outer-space-china-after-indias-asat-test-206043">All countries should uphold peace &amp; </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/all-countries-should-will-uphold-peace-tranquility-in-outer-space-china-after-indias-asat-test-206043">tranquility</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/all-countries-should-will-uphold-peace-tranquility-in-outer-space-china-after-indias-asat-test-206043"> in outer space: China after India's ASAT test</a>

China expressed hope that all countries will&nbsp;uphold peace and tranquillity&nbsp;in the outer space after &nbsp;India's ASAT(anti-satellite missile) test.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khans-comments-taken-out-of-context-and-misinterpreted-pak-clarifies-to-afghanistan-206022">Imran Khan's comments taken out of context and misinterpreted: Pak clarifies to Afghanistan&nbsp;</a>

Pakistan's Foreign Ministry moved on Wednesday to cool a row with Afghanistan over reported comments by Prime Minister Imran Khan that were taken to suggest that Kabul should set up an interim government to help smooth peace talks with the Taliban.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-diffrences-tusk-urges-eu-parliament-to-be-open-to-long-brexit-extension-206032">Amid differences, Tusk urges EU Parliament to be open to long Brexit extension</a>

EU Council president&nbsp;Donald Tusk has said&nbsp;the organization should be "open to a long extension if the UK wishes to rethink its Brexit strategy".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-intention-of-entering-into-arms-race-in-outer-space-india-after-asat-test-206023">No intention of entering into </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-intention-of-entering-into-arms-race-in-outer-space-india-after-asat-test-206023">arms</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-intention-of-entering-into-arms-race-in-outer-space-india-after-asat-test-206023"> race in outer space: India after ASAT test</a>

India has said it has no intention of&nbsp;entering into an arms race&nbsp;in outer space and Anti-Satellite Missile(ASAT) test was done just to "verify" that the country has the "capability to safeguard our space assets."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-expels-ex-interpol-chief-meng-from-communist-party-206008">China expels ex-Interpol chief Meng from Communist Party</a>

China has expelled&nbsp;former Interpol chief Meng Hongwei&nbsp;from the Communist Party and dismissed him from his official positions, the country's graft watchdog announced Wednesday.

&nbsp;

All countries should uphold peace & tranquility in outer space: China after India's ASAT test China expressed hope that all countries will uphold peace and tranquillity in the outer space after India's ASAT(anti-satellite missile) test.

All countries should uphold peace & tranquility in outer space: China after India's ASAT test China expressed hope that all countries will uphold peace and tranquillity in the outer space after India's ASAT(anti-satellite missile) test. Imran Khan's comments taken out of context and misinterpreted: Pak clarifies to Afghanistan Pakistan's Foreign Ministry moved on Wednesday to cool a row with Afghanistan over reported comments by Prime Minister Imran Khan that were taken to suggest that Kabul should set up an interim government to help smooth peace talks with the Taliban. Amid differences, Tusk urges EU Parliament to be open to long Brexit extension EU Council president Donald Tusk has said the organization should be "open to a long extension if the UK wishes to rethink its Brexit strategy". No intention of entering into arms race in outer space: India after ASAT test India has said it has no intention of entering into an arms race in outer space and Anti-Satellite Missile(ASAT) test was done just to "verify" that the country has the "capability to safeguard our space assets." China expels ex-Interpol chief Meng from Communist Party China has expelled former Interpol chief Meng Hongwei from the Communist Party and dismissed him from his official positions, the country's graft watchdog announced Wednesday.

EU Council president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/theresa-may-might-not-announce-resignation-until-lawmakers-back-brexit-deal-report-206004">Donald Tusk has said</a> the organization should be "open to a long extension if the UK wishes to rethink its Brexit strategy".

"You cannot betray the six million people who signed the petition to revoke Article 50, the one million people who marched for a people's vote or the increasing majority of people who want to remain in the European Union," Tusk said, adding,"They may feel that they are not sufficiently represented by the UK Parliament but they must feel that they are represented by you in this chamber because they are Europeans."

Tusk added that a long extension would also mean UK's participation in the European Parliament elections.

On Sunday, a huge rally of nearly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-to-vote-on-brexit-options-206010">one million in London focussed </a>on demanding a second Brexit referendum to overturn the vote on June 2016.

Political figures including Tom Watson, the deputy leader of the opposition Labor Party, the First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon, and Mayor of London Sadiq Khan all delivered speeches at the rally.

Amid the differences, ex-UKIP Leader and and chairman of the Europe of freedom and direct democracy group at the EU parliament, Nigel Farage said: "Do you really want the United Kingdom to contest the European elections, to send back a very large number of 'Leave' MEPs just at the time when you're fighting populism as you see it across the continent? Do you really want me back in this place?

Differences continued inside the European Parliament as the British member of the European Parliament and Scottish National Party member, Alyn Smith pleaded: "The best Brexit is not Brexit. So, colleagues, please, don't close the doors on us now. There are a lot of us in Scotland and elsewhere across the UK working hard to turn this around, to serve our citizens, to remain within that family of nations." 
&nbsp; 
Last week the European Union had extended the original March 29 deadline for Britain's departure from the bloc to May 22. However, it is subject to British House of Commons approving Prime Minister Theresa May's withdrawal agreement.

In the new scenario, if the UK Parliament decides to again reject May's plan within the deadline date in the British House of Commons then the UK could still crash out of Brexit with a "no-deal" by April 12th.

Prime Minister Theresa May admitted Monday she had still not secured the votes needed to get her Brexit deal through parliament. May's own cabinet including the Conservative Party is deeply divided over the issue.

EU Council president Donald Tusk has said the organization should be "open to a long extension if the UK wishes to rethink its Brexit strategy". "You cannot betray the six million people who signed the petition to revoke Article 50, the one million people who marched for a people's vote or the increasing majority of people who want to remain in the European Union," Tusk said, adding,"They may feel that they are not sufficiently represented by the UK Parliament but they must feel that they are represented by you in this chamber because they are Europeans.

EU Council president Donald Tusk has said the organization should be "open to a long extension if the UK wishes to rethink its Brexit strategy". "You cannot betray the six million people who signed the petition to revoke Article 50, the one million people who marched for a people's vote or the increasing majority of people who want to remain in the European Union," Tusk said, adding,"They may feel that they are not sufficiently represented by the UK Parliament but they must feel that they are represented by you in this chamber because they are Europeans." Tusk added that a long extension would also mean UK's participation in the European Parliament elections. On Sunday, a huge rally of nearly one million in London focussed on demanding a second Brexit referendum to overturn the vote on June 2016. Political figures including Tom Watson, the deputy leader of the opposition Labor Party, the First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon, and Mayor of London Sadiq Khan all delivered speeches at the rally. Amid the differences, ex-UKIP Leader and and chairman of the Europe of freedom and direct democracy group at the EU parliament, Nigel Farage said: "Do you really want the United Kingdom to contest the European elections, to send back a very large number of 'Leave' MEPs just at the time when you're fighting populism as you see it across the continent? Do you really want me back in this place? Differences continued inside the European Parliament as the British member of the European Parliament and Scottish National Party member, Alyn Smith pleaded: "The best Brexit is not Brexit. So, colleagues, please, don't close the doors on us now. There are a lot of us in Scotland and elsewhere across the UK working hard to turn this around, to serve our citizens, to remain within that family of nations." Last week the European Union had extended the original March 29 deadline for Britain's departure from the bloc to May 22. However, it is subject to British House of Commons approving Prime Minister Theresa May's withdrawal agreement. In the new scenario, if the UK Parliament decides to again reject May's plan within the deadline date in the British House of Commons then the UK could still crash out of Brexit with a "no-deal" by April 12th. Prime Minister Theresa May admitted Monday she had still not secured the votes needed to get her Brexit deal through parliament. May's own cabinet including the Conservative Party is deeply divided over the issue.

Amid differences, Tusk urges EU Parliament to be open to long Brexit extension

Aides to British Prime Minister Theresa May are discussing a&nbsp;timetable for her to resign but could delay the announcement of her intention to quit until after a&nbsp;third vote by parliament on her <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/heres-how-brexit-endgame-could-play-out-205678">Brexit </a>plan, the Financial Times said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-to-vote-on-brexit-options-206010">British MPs to vote on Brexit options</a>

"This would avoid the unseemly impression that some Tory MPs, eg Boris (Johnson), were backing the deal for base motives," the FT's political editor George Parker said on Twitter.

There would be an understanding that May would announce her departure when or if eurosceptic lawmakers in her Conservative Party back her <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-vote-to-seize-control-of-brexit-for-a-day-205630">deal </a>and it clears parliament, he said.

May's deal negotiated with Brussels has already been voted down overwhelmingly by parliament twice but the government is widely expected to present it for a third time on Thursday to ensure an orderly Brexit. 
&nbsp;

Aides to British Prime Minister Theresa May are discussing a timetable for her to resign but could delay the announcement of her intention to quit until after a third vote by parliament on her Brexit plan, the Financial Times said.

Aides to British Prime Minister Theresa May are discussing a timetable for her to resign but could delay the announcement of her intention to quit until after a third vote by parliament on her Brexit plan, the Financial Times said. Also read: British MPs to vote on Brexit options "This would avoid the unseemly impression that some Tory MPs, eg Boris (Johnson), were backing the deal for base motives," the FT's political editor George Parker said on Twitter. There would be an understanding that May would announce her departure when or if eurosceptic lawmakers in her Conservative Party back her deal and it clears parliament, he said. May's deal negotiated with Brussels has already been voted down overwhelmingly by parliament twice but the government is widely expected to present it for a third time on Thursday to ensure an orderly Brexit.

Theresa May might not announce resignation until lawmakers back Brexit deal: Report

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-vote-to-seize-control-of-brexit-for-a-day-205630">British MPs</a> will on Wednesday hold votes on various <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/heres-how-brexit-endgame-could-play-out-205678">Brexit </a>options even as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/theresa-may-might-not-announce-resignation-until-lawmakers-back-brexit-deal-report-206004">Prime Minister Theresa May </a>comes under pressure to announce a departure plan to get support for her unpopular divorce deal.

Three years after a referendum in which Britain voted to leave the European Union, the country is gripped by painful uncertainty over how -- or even whether -- it should put an end to its 46-year membership.

May's deal negotiated with Brussels has already been voted down overwhelmingly by parliament twice but the government is widely expected to present it for a third time on Thursday to ensure an orderly<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/can-the-revoke-article-50-petition-change-the-course-of-brexit-205739"> Brexit</a>.

EU leaders said Britain could leave the EU on May 22 if the deal is adopted this week, or face a potential no-deal Brexit as early as April 12.

In a bid to find Brexit alternatives, lawmakers took the unprecedented step on Monday of seizing control of Wednesday's parliamentary business.

MPs will hold a series of "indicative votes" -- indicating their preferences on a piece of paper -- for different Brexit outcomes, although May is not legally-bound to follow their instructions.

The proposals put forward so include a customs union with the EU, remaining in the single market, holding a second referendum or stopping Brexit by revoking Article 50 -- the formal notification for departure.

The alternatives that will actually be voted on will be selected by speaker John Bercow on Wednesday and voting will take place at around 1900 GMT with the results expected at around 2100 GMT.

Time has been set aside next Monday to try and whittle down the most popular options to a final plan.

'Get it over the line'

Parliament's unprecedented power-grab was spearheaded by arch-EU MPs, who want to either reverse Brexit or preserve much closer economic ties with the remaining 27 states.

Three members of May's government quit in order to vote for the move, further piling pressure on their leader.

However, she received a boost on Tuesday when influential Brexiteer Jacob Rees Mogg suggested he could back her deal in order to make sure the whole process was not stopped.

Prominent Brexit supporter Boris Johnson has already indicated that he could back the deal, but only if May agrees to go, raising suggestions that she could announce plans for her departure at a meeting with Conservative MPs at 1700 GMT on Wednesday.

"If the Prime Minister announces a timetable of departure, I think that's going to swing a lot of people behind her deal, we could get it over the line," said Conservative MP Nigel Evans.

'Toxic Brexit'

But the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), the hardline Northern Irish power brokers who prop up the government, have poured cold water on the deal.

The group's Brexit spokesman Sammy Wilson said the party would rather see a one-year Brexit delay.

"Even if we are forced into a one-year extension, we at least would have a say on the things which affect us during that time and would have the right to unilaterally decide to leave at the end of that one-year," he wrote in the Daily Telegraph.

"We won't let the PM or the Remainer horde in parliament bully us into backing a toxic Brexit," he said.

Britain was originally due to exit from the EU on March 29, and MPs will vote on Wednesday to formalise the extension into law.

It has already been written into international law and is expected to pass easily, with May's office saying that "there would be uncertainty for citizens and businesses" if MPs were to reject it.

A group of Brexit-supporting MPs, however, has said that holding the vote after the delay had already entered international law "created serious legal doubts about the legal situation surrounding the extension".

British MPs will on Wednesday hold votes on various Brexit options even as Prime Minister Theresa May comes under pressure to announce a departure plan to get support for her unpopular divorce deal.

British MPs will on Wednesday hold votes on various Brexit options even as Prime Minister Theresa May comes under pressure to announce a departure plan to get support for her unpopular divorce deal. Three years after a referendum in which Britain voted to leave the European Union, the country is gripped by painful uncertainty over how -- or even whether -- it should put an end to its 46-year membership. May's deal negotiated with Brussels has already been voted down overwhelmingly by parliament twice but the government is widely expected to present it for a third time on Thursday to ensure an orderly Brexit. EU leaders said Britain could leave the EU on May 22 if the deal is adopted this week, or face a potential no-deal Brexit as early as April 12. In a bid to find Brexit alternatives, lawmakers took the unprecedented step on Monday of seizing control of Wednesday's parliamentary business. MPs will hold a series of "indicative votes" -- indicating their preferences on a piece of paper -- for different Brexit outcomes, although May is not legally-bound to follow their instructions. The proposals put forward so include a customs union with the EU, remaining in the single market, holding a second referendum or stopping Brexit by revoking Article 50 -- the formal notification for departure. The alternatives that will actually be voted on will be selected by speaker John Bercow on Wednesday and voting will take place at around 1900 GMT with the results expected at around 2100 GMT. Time has been set aside next Monday to try and whittle down the most popular options to a final plan. 'Get it over the line' Parliament's unprecedented power-grab was spearheaded by arch-EU MPs, who want to either reverse Brexit or preserve much closer economic ties with the remaining 27 states. Three members of May's government quit in order to vote for the move, further piling pressure on their leader. However, she received a boost on Tuesday when influential Brexiteer Jacob Rees Mogg suggested he could back her deal in order to make sure the whole process was not stopped. Prominent Brexit supporter Boris Johnson has already indicated that he could back the deal, but only if May agrees to go, raising suggestions that she could announce plans for her departure at a meeting with Conservative MPs at 1700 GMT on Wednesday. "If the Prime Minister announces a timetable of departure, I think that's going to swing a lot of people behind her deal, we could get it over the line," said Conservative MP Nigel Evans. 'Toxic Brexit' But the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), the hardline Northern Irish power brokers who prop up the government, have poured cold water on the deal. The group's Brexit spokesman Sammy Wilson said the party would rather see a one-year Brexit delay. "Even if we are forced into a one-year extension, we at least would have a say on the things which affect us during that time and would have the right to unilaterally decide to leave at the end of that one-year," he wrote in the Daily Telegraph. "We won't let the PM or the Remainer horde in parliament bully us into backing a toxic Brexit," he said. Britain was originally due to exit from the EU on March 29, and MPs will vote on Wednesday to formalise the extension into law. It has already been written into international law and is expected to pass easily, with May's office saying that "there would be uncertainty for citizens and businesses" if MPs were to reject it. A group of Brexit-supporting MPs, however, has said that holding the vote after the delay had already entered international law "created serious legal doubts about the legal situation surrounding the extension".

British MPs to vote on Brexit options

What in the world is going on with Brexit?

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - March 26, 2019

British lawmakers wrested control of the parliamentary agenda from the government for a day in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pms-office-says-reports-of-parliament-seizing-control-from-govt-over-brexit-extremely-concerning-191516">a highly unusual bid</a> to find a way through the Brexit impasse after Prime Minister Theresa May's EU divorce deal was rejected again.

Lawmakers will now vote on a range of Brexit options on Wednesday, giving parliament a chance to indicate whether it can agree on a deal with closer ties to Brussels — and then try to push the government in that direction.

Nearly three years after the 2016 EU membership referendum, and four days before Britain was supposed to leave the bloc, it remains still unclear how, when or even if Brexit will take place, with parliament and the nation still bitterly divided.

The vote underlined the extent to which May has lost authority over her own lawmakers and ministers, though she said the government would not be bound by the results of the so-called indicative votes.

"The government will continue to call for realism — any options considered must be deliverable in negotiations with the EU," said a spokesman for the Department for Exiting the European Union.

Brexit minister Stephen Barclay had said on Sunday that if parliament took control of the Brexit process, a snap election — which the main opposition Labour party would be likely to back — could be the consequence.

May too has made clear that she would not implement a proposal that ran counter to her election manifesto, which promised a clean break with the EU.

THIRD VOTE ON MAY'S DEAL?

But while lawmakers may struggle to turn Wednesday's indicative votes into law, if they do reach some kind of a consensus, it would pile pressure on a prime minister who has accused parliament of having no more viable solution than her deal.

Monday's vote was put forward by Oliver Letwin, a lawmaker in May's Conservative Party. The prime minister had earlier admitted that the deal she had agreed with the EU after two years of talks still did not have enough support to pass.

May has not ruled out bringing back her deal for a third time this week. Thursday would be the most likely day.

The Sun newspaper reported that she had suggested on Sunday that she could resign if that persuaded enough doubters in her party to back her deal.

Some of her lawmakers have already publicly urged her to go.

Parliament backed Letwin's proposal more clearly than had been expected, by 329 votes to 302, helped by three junior ministers who resigned in order to defy the government line.

"The amendment ... upends the balance between our democratic institutions and sets a dangerous, unpredictable precedent for the future," the Brexit department spokesman said.

Sterling rose slightly after the votes but the gains were muted with traders little wiser about when, how and even if Britain will exit the European Union.

"No government could give a blank cheque to commit to an outcome without knowing what it is," May said before the vote. "So I cannot commit the government to delivering the outcome of any votes held by this house."

SNAP ELECTION?

Opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn raised the prospect of putting any proposal supported by lawmakers back to the people.

"This House must also consider whether any deal should be put to the people for a confirmatory vote," he told parliament after the votes.

Last week, the EU agreed to delay Britain's original March 29 departure date because of the deadlock. Now, it will leave the EU on May 22 if May's deal is approved this week. If not, it will have until April 12 to outline its plans.

European Council President Donald Tusk said last week that all Brexit options were still open for Britain until April 12, including a deal, a departure with no deal, a long extension - or even revoking Article 50 and remaining in the EU.

May's deal was defeated in parliament by 149 votes on March 12 and by 230 votes on Jan. 15.

To get her deal passed, May must win over at least 75 MPs who voted against her on March 12 - dozens of rebels in her Conservative Party, some opposition Labour Party MPs and the Northern Irish Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), which props up her minority government but has rejected her deal so far.

Earlier, May's divided cabinet of senior ministers had met to discuss a way forward. Some reports said ministers had "war-gamed" a national election.

"I think we're going to end up with a general election before the end of this year, probably in the summer," Conservative lawmaker Andrew Bridgen, who supports Brexit, told Sky News.

British lawmakers wrested control of the parliamentary agenda from the government for a day in a highly unusual bid to find a way through the Brexit impasse after Prime Minister Theresa May's EU divorce deal was rejected again.

British lawmakers wrested control of the parliamentary agenda from the government for a day in a highly unusual bid to find a way through the Brexit impasse after Prime Minister Theresa May's EU divorce deal was rejected again. Lawmakers will now vote on a range of Brexit options on Wednesday, giving parliament a chance to indicate whether it can agree on a deal with closer ties to Brussels — and then try to push the government in that direction. Nearly three years after the 2016 EU membership referendum, and four days before Britain was supposed to leave the bloc, it remains still unclear how, when or even if Brexit will take place, with parliament and the nation still bitterly divided. The vote underlined the extent to which May has lost authority over her own lawmakers and ministers, though she said the government would not be bound by the results of the so-called indicative votes. "The government will continue to call for realism — any options considered must be deliverable in negotiations with the EU," said a spokesman for the Department for Exiting the European Union. Brexit minister Stephen Barclay had said on Sunday that if parliament took control of the Brexit process, a snap election — which the main opposition Labour party would be likely to back — could be the consequence. May too has made clear that she would not implement a proposal that ran counter to her election manifesto, which promised a clean break with the EU. THIRD VOTE ON MAY'S DEAL? But while lawmakers may struggle to turn Wednesday's indicative votes into law, if they do reach some kind of a consensus, it would pile pressure on a prime minister who has accused parliament of having no more viable solution than her deal. Monday's vote was put forward by Oliver Letwin, a lawmaker in May's Conservative Party. The prime minister had earlier admitted that the deal she had agreed with the EU after two years of talks still did not have enough support to pass. May has not ruled out bringing back her deal for a third time this week. Thursday would be the most likely day. The Sun newspaper reported that she had suggested on Sunday that she could resign if that persuaded enough doubters in her party to back her deal. Some of her lawmakers have already publicly urged her to go. Parliament backed Letwin's proposal more clearly than had been expected, by 329 votes to 302, helped by three junior ministers who resigned in order to defy the government line. "The amendment ... upends the balance between our democratic institutions and sets a dangerous, unpredictable precedent for the future," the Brexit department spokesman said. Sterling rose slightly after the votes but the gains were muted with traders little wiser about when, how and even if Britain will exit the European Union. "No government could give a blank cheque to commit to an outcome without knowing what it is," May said before the vote. "So I cannot commit the government to delivering the outcome of any votes held by this house." SNAP ELECTION? Opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn raised the prospect of putting any proposal supported by lawmakers back to the people. "This House must also consider whether any deal should be put to the people for a confirmatory vote," he told parliament after the votes. Last week, the EU agreed to delay Britain's original March 29 departure date because of the deadlock. Now, it will leave the EU on May 22 if May's deal is approved this week. If not, it will have until April 12 to outline its plans. European Council President Donald Tusk said last week that all Brexit options were still open for Britain until April 12, including a deal, a departure with no deal, a long extension - or even revoking Article 50 and remaining in the EU. May's deal was defeated in parliament by 149 votes on March 12 and by 230 votes on Jan. 15. To get her deal passed, May must win over at least 75 MPs who voted against her on March 12 - dozens of rebels in her Conservative Party, some opposition Labour Party MPs and the Northern Irish Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), which props up her minority government but has rejected her deal so far. Earlier, May's divided cabinet of senior ministers had met to discuss a way forward. Some reports said ministers had "war-gamed" a national election. "I think we're going to end up with a general election before the end of this year, probably in the summer," Conservative lawmaker Andrew Bridgen, who supports Brexit, told Sky News.

British MPs vote to seize control of Brexit for a day

Brexiteer jailed for hitting UK opposition Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn with an egg

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-vote-to-seize-control-of-brexit-for-a-day-205630">British MPs vote to seize control of Brexit for a day</a>

British lawmakers wrested control of the parliamentary agenda from the government for a day in a highly unusual bid to find a way through the Brexit impasse after Prime Minister Theresa May's EU divorce deal was rejected again.

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stormy-daniels-lawyer-charged-with-trying-to-extort-20-million-from-nike-205631">Stormy Daniels' lawyer charged with trying to extort $20 million from Nike</a>

Attorney Michael Avenatti, who represented adult film star Stormy Daniels in her legal battles with US President Donald Trump, was charged on Monday with what prosecutors said was an attempt to "shakedown" Nike Inc for over $20 million.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/apple-unveils-apple-tv-streaming-service-credit-card-205624">Apple starts streaming service to take on Netflix, Amazon</a>

Apple unveiled a new streaming-video service with original TV-series content called Apple TV+ on Monday, aiming to join the audiovisual streaming market mainly dominated by Netflix, Hulu and Amazon.

Pentagon authorises $1 billion for Trump's border wall The Pentagon has authorised $1 billion for US President's Donald Trump's wall along the US-Mexico border. The authorisation was made by acting Pentagon chief Patrick Shanahan.

Pentagon authorises $1 billion for Trump's border wall The Pentagon has authorised $1 billion for US President's Donald Trump's wall along the US-Mexico border. The authorisation was made by acting Pentagon chief Patrick Shanahan. British MPs vote to seize control of Brexit for a day British lawmakers wrested control of the parliamentary agenda from the government for a day in a highly unusual bid to find a way through the Brexit impasse after Prime Minister Theresa May's EU divorce deal was rejected again. 55% Indians happy with way things are going in the country, public satisfaction dips 15 points: US survey Fifty-five per cent of Indians are happy with the way things are going in the country even as the public satisfaction level has gone down by 15 points to 70 per cent, according to a Pew survey released late Monday night. Stormy Daniels' lawyer charged with trying to extort $20 million from Nike Attorney Michael Avenatti, who represented adult film star Stormy Daniels in her legal battles with US President Donald Trump, was charged on Monday with what prosecutors said was an attempt to "shakedown" Nike Inc for over $20 million. Apple starts streaming service to take on Netflix, Amazon Apple unveiled a new streaming-video service with original TV-series content called Apple TV+ on Monday, aiming to join the audiovisual streaming market mainly dominated by Netflix, Hulu and Amazon.

Asian markets staged a tentative recovery Tuesday from the previous day's steep losses, with investors increasingly anxious about the state of the global economy.

With a mixed lead from Wall Street, regional traders had few catalysts to drive buying, while safe-haven flows saw the dollar edge up against high-yielding currencies.

Attention is also back on London, where MPs essentially wrested control of the Brexit debate from Prime Minister Theresa May with a vote that will allow them to decide on a number of possibilities for how to proceed.

Investors in Asia were suffering a hangover from Monday's pummelling, which came on the back of a drop in benchmark 10-year Treasury bond yields below those for three-month bills -- for the first time since before the global financial crisis.

This so-called inverted yield curve shows investors are more willing to buy long-term debt -- usually viewed as a higher risk -- as they consider the short-term outlook more hazardous. Such a scenario has preceded several recessions in recent decades.

"Recession worries may be premature for the US, but the negative signals are consistent with the recent data," said OANDA senior market analyst Edward Moya.

May's fresh crisis&nbsp;

Tokyo led gains, jumping 1.8 per cent by the break -- having dived three per cent Monday -- while Hong Kong edged up 0.4 per cent and Shanghai was flat.

Sydney added 0.1 per cent, Singapore put on 0.7 per cent, while Seoul, Wellington, Taipei and Manila also rose.

In Britain, the Brexit saga took a new twist when lawmakers inflicted yet another defeat on May by voting to take control of parliamentary business that will see them hold a series of ballots on different options for leaving the EU.

They will now choose to revoke Article 50 and cancel Brexit, hold another referendum, vote for a deal including a customs union and single market membership, or leave the EU without a deal.

However, even if they decide a majority course of action, the government is not legally bound to follow their instructions.

The move came after the premier admitted she still had not secured the votes needed to get her Brexit deal through parliament.

EU leaders last week delayed the divorce but warned that unless May can push her withdrawal deal through, Britain must come up with a new plan by April 12 -- or leave its closest trading partner with no deal at all.

While uncertainty reigns, the sterling was slightly higher Tuesday, with investors still hopeful Britain will avoid a no-deal Brexit, which some warn could be an economic calamity for the country.

Asian markets staged a tentative recovery Tuesday from the previous day's steep losses, with investors increasingly anxious about the state of the global economy.

Asian markets staged a tentative recovery Tuesday from the previous day's steep losses, with investors increasingly anxious about the state of the global economy. With a mixed lead from Wall Street, regional traders had few catalysts to drive buying, while safe-haven flows saw the dollar edge up against high-yielding currencies. Attention is also back on London, where MPs essentially wrested control of the Brexit debate from Prime Minister Theresa May with a vote that will allow them to decide on a number of possibilities for how to proceed. Investors in Asia were suffering a hangover from Monday's pummelling, which came on the back of a drop in benchmark 10-year Treasury bond yields below those for three-month bills -- for the first time since before the global financial crisis. This so-called inverted yield curve shows investors are more willing to buy long-term debt -- usually viewed as a higher risk -- as they consider the short-term outlook more hazardous. Such a scenario has preceded several recessions in recent decades. "Recession worries may be premature for the US, but the negative signals are consistent with the recent data," said OANDA senior market analyst Edward Moya. May's fresh crisis Tokyo led gains, jumping 1.8 per cent by the break -- having dived three per cent Monday -- while Hong Kong edged up 0.4 per cent and Shanghai was flat. Sydney added 0.1 per cent, Singapore put on 0.7 per cent, while Seoul, Wellington, Taipei and Manila also rose. In Britain, the Brexit saga took a new twist when lawmakers inflicted yet another defeat on May by voting to take control of parliamentary business that will see them hold a series of ballots on different options for leaving the EU. They will now choose to revoke Article 50 and cancel Brexit, hold another referendum, vote for a deal including a customs union and single market membership, or leave the EU without a deal. However, even if they decide a majority course of action, the government is not legally bound to follow their instructions. The move came after the premier admitted she still had not secured the votes needed to get her Brexit deal through parliament. EU leaders last week delayed the divorce but warned that unless May can push her withdrawal deal through, Britain must come up with a new plan by April 12 -- or leave its closest trading partner with no deal at all. While uncertainty reigns, the sterling was slightly higher Tuesday, with investors still hopeful Britain will avoid a no-deal Brexit, which some warn could be an economic calamity for the country.

Asian markets rise but traders on edge over global outlook

Three junior British ministers quit <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-vote-to-seize-control-of-brexit-for-a-day-205630">Prime Minister Theresa May</a>'s government over Brexit on Monday.

Foreign Office minister Alistair Burt, health minister Steve Brine resigned and business minister Richard Harrington announced&nbsp;his decision to leave the government on Twitter, according to news agency AFP.

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This evening I wrote to the PM to offer her my resignation <a href="https://t.co/Z0QU5lbeJ1">pic.twitter.com/Z0QU5lbeJ1</a>
— Richard Harrington (@Richard4Watford) <a href="https://twitter.com/Richard4Watford/status/1110302682835759106?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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They refused to support Theresa May over giving more say to MPs in leaving the European Union.

Around 30 members of May's Conservative party defied her to vote in favour of a motion giving MPs control of parliamentary business later this week to try to come up with an alternative Brexit plan.

Harrington in his resignation letter said that the government's approach was "playing roulette with the lives and livelihoods of the vast majority of people in this country".

"As the UK's industry minister, the clear message I have been receiving from the business community is that the failure to secure a deal and to rule out a hard Brexit is resulting in cancelled investment decisions, business being placed abroad, and a sense of ridicule for British business, across the world," Harrington wrote.

Several ministers had quit May's government overBrexit.

Last year in November, British Brexit Secretary Dominic Raab resigned. The 44-year-old was appointed to the role of Brexit minister in July last year following the resignation of his predecessor David Davis, who also quit in protest at May's Brexit strategy.

Three junior British ministers quit Prime Minister Theresa May's government over Brexit on Monday. Foreign Office minister Alistair Burt, health minister Steve Brine resigned and business minister Richard Harrington announced his decision to leave the government on Twitter, according to news agency AFP.

Three junior British ministers quit Prime Minister Theresa May's government over Brexit on Monday. Foreign Office minister Alistair Burt, health minister Steve Brine resigned and business minister Richard Harrington announced his decision to leave the government on Twitter, according to news agency AFP. This evening I wrote to the PM to offer her my resignation pic.twitter.com/Z0QU5lbeJ1 — Richard Harrington (@Richard4Watford) March 25, 2019 × They refused to support Theresa May over giving more say to MPs in leaving the European Union. Around 30 members of May's Conservative party defied her to vote in favour of a motion giving MPs control of parliamentary business later this week to try to come up with an alternative Brexit plan. Harrington in his resignation letter said that the government's approach was "playing roulette with the lives and livelihoods of the vast majority of people in this country". "As the UK's industry minister, the clear message I have been receiving from the business community is that the failure to secure a deal and to rule out a hard Brexit is resulting in cancelled investment decisions, business being placed abroad, and a sense of ridicule for British business, across the world," Harrington wrote. Several ministers had quit May's government overBrexit. Last year in November, British Brexit Secretary Dominic Raab resigned. The 44-year-old was appointed to the role of Brexit minister in July last year following the resignation of his predecessor David Davis, who also quit in protest at May's Brexit strategy.

Three junior British ministers quit over Brexit: Sources

The Premier League is taking Europe by storm this season but <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-vote-to-seize-control-of-brexit-for-a-day-205630">the dark clouds of Brexit</a> threaten the English top-flight's long-held position as the richest league in world football.

No deal has yet been agreed on the terms under which the United Kingdom will leave the European Union, leading to uncertainty among British businesses.

Despite its international profile, the Premier League is no different, particularly with so much of its success across the globe based on its cosmopolitan collection of players, coaches and owners.

So what could Brexit mean for the Premier League?

Weak pound&nbsp; 
The value of the British pound has plunged since the referendum result in 2016, making transfer fees paid to European competitors much more expensive.

Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino referred to the weak pound as one of the reasons his side failed to sign any players in pre-season and compared the impacts of Brexit to a car crash.

Football finance experts Deloitte also signalled the weakening of the pound as a contributory factor in Manchester United surrendering top spot in its Football Money League and falling behind Spanish giants Barcelona and Real Madrid.

Restrictions on foreign talent 
In backing the Remain campaign in 2016, the Premier League's former executive chairman Richard Scudamore described leaving the EU as "incongruous" to the league's commitment to openness.&nbsp;

The global appeal of the competition depends on recruiting the best players, no matter where they are from, and an end to free movement for European players make that a more onerous task.

"The Premier League is essentially the hub for a constellation of star brands," Simon Chadwick, professor of sports enterprise at Salford University, told AFP.

"Therefore, any measures that are adapted to restrict the inward flow of overseas talent could ultimately diminish the Premier League's market positioning, thereby undermining its competitive advantage."

EU national players, including many who represent South American and African nations at the international level but hold EU passports, will have to satisfy much stricter requirements to be handed a work permit.

The current system for non-EU players takes into account international appearances, the transfer fee, proposed wages and recent playing history to determine whether they receive a Governing Body Endorsement (GBE) from the Football Association.

Were these restrictions applied across the board, marquee signings would not be stopped. However, in the ever more competitive transfer market, British clubs could be robbed of the opportunity to find hidden gems at the lower end of the market.

Chelsea's N'Golo Kante and Manchester City's record signing Riyad Mahrez, who were both plucked from relative obscurity in France before winning the Premier League for Leicester City, have been cited as players who would be unlikely to receive a work permit.

In 2016, the BBC calculated that 332 players in the top two tiers of English football and the Scottish Premiership would not meet the criteria if the standards set for non-EU players were applied across the board.

Premier League clubs will also lose out on the chance to sign European players before their 18th birthdays, unless, as seems unlikely, the UK remains within the European Economic Area (EEA).

FIFA bans all overseas transfers for under-18s but makes an exception for movement within the EEA, which has allowed players such as Cesc Fabregas and Paul Pogba to move to England as 16-year-olds.

Economic hit 
Despite lucrative overseas TV deals, the success of the Premier League is linked closely to the performance of the British economy.

There are already fears that domestic TV rights deals have peaked, with broadcasters paying less for matches in 2019-2022 than for the previous three-year period.

Guessing the future trajectory of the economy is tricky but if fans are hit in the pocket, clubs will lose out on ticket sales and merchandising revenue.

Boost for homegrown players? 
One potential benefit from Brexit for the English national team is that more restrictions on foreign players will mean more opportunities for homegrown talent.

Currently, England-qualified players account for around 30 per cent of starts in the Premier League.

However, the Premier League argue such restrictions would not help the England team and instead dilute the standard at which English internationals are competing every week.

"There is no evidence that stronger quotas that exist now would have a positive impact on national teams," the league said in a statement in November.

The Premier League is taking Europe by storm this season but the dark clouds of Brexit threaten the English top-flight's long-held position as the richest league in world football.

The Premier League is taking Europe by storm this season but the dark clouds of Brexit threaten the English top-flight's long-held position as the richest league in world football. No deal has yet been agreed on the terms under which the United Kingdom will leave the European Union, leading to uncertainty among British businesses. Despite its international profile, the Premier League is no different, particularly with so much of its success across the globe based on its cosmopolitan collection of players, coaches and owners. So what could Brexit mean for the Premier League? Weak pound The value of the British pound has plunged since the referendum result in 2016, making transfer fees paid to European competitors much more expensive. Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino referred to the weak pound as one of the reasons his side failed to sign any players in pre-season and compared the impacts of Brexit to a car crash. Football finance experts Deloitte also signalled the weakening of the pound as a contributory factor in Manchester United surrendering top spot in its Football Money League and falling behind Spanish giants Barcelona and Real Madrid. Restrictions on foreign talent In backing the Remain campaign in 2016, the Premier League's former executive chairman Richard Scudamore described leaving the EU as "incongruous" to the league's commitment to openness. The global appeal of the competition depends on recruiting the best players, no matter where they are from, and an end to free movement for European players make that a more onerous task. "The Premier League is essentially the hub for a constellation of star brands," Simon Chadwick, professor of sports enterprise at Salford University, told AFP. "Therefore, any measures that are adapted to restrict the inward flow of overseas talent could ultimately diminish the Premier League's market positioning, thereby undermining its competitive advantage." EU national players, including many who represent South American and African nations at the international level but hold EU passports, will have to satisfy much stricter requirements to be handed a work permit. The current system for non-EU players takes into account international appearances, the transfer fee, proposed wages and recent playing history to determine whether they receive a Governing Body Endorsement (GBE) from the Football Association. Were these restrictions applied across the board, marquee signings would not be stopped. However, in the ever more competitive transfer market, British clubs could be robbed of the opportunity to find hidden gems at the lower end of the market. Chelsea's N'Golo Kante and Manchester City's record signing Riyad Mahrez, who were both plucked from relative obscurity in France before winning the Premier League for Leicester City, have been cited as players who would be unlikely to receive a work permit. In 2016, the BBC calculated that 332 players in the top two tiers of English football and the Scottish Premiership would not meet the criteria if the standards set for non-EU players were applied across the board. Premier League clubs will also lose out on the chance to sign European players before their 18th birthdays, unless, as seems unlikely, the UK remains within the European Economic Area (EEA). FIFA bans all overseas transfers for under-18s but makes an exception for movement within the EEA, which has allowed players such as Cesc Fabregas and Paul Pogba to move to England as 16-year-olds. Economic hit Despite lucrative overseas TV deals, the success of the Premier League is linked closely to the performance of the British economy. There are already fears that domestic TV rights deals have peaked, with broadcasters paying less for matches in 2019-2022 than for the previous three-year period. Guessing the future trajectory of the economy is tricky but if fans are hit in the pocket, clubs will lose out on ticket sales and merchandising revenue. Boost for homegrown players? One potential benefit from Brexit for the English national team is that more restrictions on foreign players will mean more opportunities for homegrown talent. Currently, England-qualified players account for around 30 per cent of starts in the Premier League. However, the Premier League argue such restrictions would not help the England team and instead dilute the standard at which English internationals are competing every week. "There is no evidence that stronger quotas that exist now would have a positive impact on national teams," the league said in a statement in November.

Will Brexit hurt the Premier League?

UK lawmakers voted to take control of Brexit process

By Ron Johnston, Charles Pattie and David Manley*

Not surprisingly, much public attention has been given to the online petition asking parliament to revoke Article 50 so that the UK will remain within the European Union. It attracted more than 5m signatures within a week of being launched, making it the most signed petition since the government’s e-petition site began. It crashed the system multiple times over the course of the first few days.&nbsp;

Critics of the petition, largely drawn from those who promoted and continue to support Brexit, claim that it is yet another attempt by those who opposed Leave to subvert the democratic decision reached by a clear majority in the June 2016 referendum. They claim that many of those opposed to leaving the EU cannot accept that decision and are using whatever methods they can to overturn it.&nbsp;

Are they right? The numbers signing the e-petition are remarkable. But even if we assume (as seems reasonable) that almost all signatories were Remain voters, most Remainers have not (yet) signed. As of the time of writing, two-thirds had not done so.

This does not mean, of course, that those who have not signed are therefore opposed to the petition (we cannot know – and there may well be people who have not signed because they never sign petitions at all, even when they support a petition’s cause).

But we can assess whether support for revoking Article 50 is related to support for Remain by comparing their respective geographies. Data are available on the number of signatories to the petition in each of the UK’s 650 parliamentary constituencies (signatories were asked to give a postcode, and this can be matched to the relevant constituency).&nbsp;

As of March 25, the spread varied considerably. Only 2.6 per cent of the people registered to vote in Walsall North in 2018 (1,722), for example, had signed the 2019 petition. Meanwhile, over in Bristol West, 39.9 per cent of the electorate had signed.

By comparison, estimates suggested that 74.2 per cent of Walsall North’s voters supported Brexit in 2016, compared to just 20.7 per cent in Bristol West. These extremes are at the ends of a clear continuum for all 650 UK constituencies: the larger the vote for Brexit in 2016 the smaller the percentage who have signed the petition.&nbsp;

<figure class="align-center ">
<img alt="" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/265680/original/file-20190325-36283-r8mn38.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/265680/original/file-20190325-36283-r8mn38.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=604&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/265680/original/file-20190325-36283-r8mn38.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=604&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/265680/original/file-20190325-36283-r8mn38.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=604&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/265680/original/file-20190325-36283-r8mn38.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=759&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/265680/original/file-20190325-36283-r8mn38.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=759&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/265680/original/file-20190325-36283-r8mn38.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=759&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 2262w" />

Regional surprises

<figcaption>
There are some variations around this general trend, however. For instance, far fewer voters in Wales, Scotland and, especially, Northern Ireland have supported the petition than in England. This is particularly surprising given that both Northern Ireland and Scotland voted to remain in 2016.&nbsp;A statistical model describing the general trend allows us to predict what the typical percentage signing the petition would be in constituencies with different Brexit votes in 2016. Based on such a model, we calculate that in English constituencies where 50 per cent supported Leave in the referendum, on average about 13 per cent signed the petition. In similar Scottish constituencies, it was only 6.1 per cent and in Northern Ireland only 5.4 per cent. Wales, of course, voted Leave, but in constituencies, there were around 50 per cent voted to leave, support for the petition now was about 10.4 per cent.

For some reason, support for revoking Article 50 (as measured by this petition at least) has been smaller in the UK’s Celtic fringe.

The critics – not surprisingly – are right, at least in the sense that the petition appeals most to Remain supporters. The geography of support for revoking Article 50 and the UK remaining in the EU is very largely the same as the geography of support for Remain three years ago: on average there has been no change – although we have to wonder why the Scots and Northern Irish have been relatively silent this time.&nbsp;

*(Ron Johnston is Professor of Geography, University of Bristol, Charles Pattie is a Professor of Electoral Geography, University of Sheffield and David Manley is a Professor of Human Geography, University of Bristol. )

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/revoke-article-50-petition-largely-remainers-signing-but-theres-a-surprising-regional-twist-114258">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;
</figcaption>
</figure>

&nbsp;

By Ron Johnston, Charles Pattie and David Manley* Not surprisingly, much public attention has been given to the online petition asking parliament to revoke Article 50 so that the UK will remain within the European Union.

By Ron Johnston, Charles Pattie and David Manley* Not surprisingly, much public attention has been given to the online petition asking parliament to revoke Article 50 so that the UK will remain within the European Union. It attracted more than 5m signatures within a week of being launched, making it the most signed petition since the government’s e-petition site began. It crashed the system multiple times over the course of the first few days. Critics of the petition, largely drawn from those who promoted and continue to support Brexit, claim that it is yet another attempt by those who opposed Leave to subvert the democratic decision reached by a clear majority in the June 2016 referendum. They claim that many of those opposed to leaving the EU cannot accept that decision and are using whatever methods they can to overturn it. Are they right? The numbers signing the e-petition are remarkable. But even if we assume (as seems reasonable) that almost all signatories were Remain voters, most Remainers have not (yet) signed. As of the time of writing, two-thirds had not done so. This does not mean, of course, that those who have not signed are therefore opposed to the petition (we cannot know – and there may well be people who have not signed because they never sign petitions at all, even when they support a petition’s cause). But we can assess whether support for revoking Article 50 is related to support for Remain by comparing their respective geographies. Data are available on the number of signatories to the petition in each of the UK’s 650 parliamentary constituencies (signatories were asked to give a postcode, and this can be matched to the relevant constituency). As of March 25, the spread varied considerably. Only 2.6 per cent of the people registered to vote in Walsall North in 2018 (1,722), for example, had signed the 2019 petition. Meanwhile, over in Bristol West, 39.9 per cent of the electorate had signed. By comparison, estimates suggested that 74.2 per cent of Walsall North’s voters supported Brexit in 2016, compared to just 20.7 per cent in Bristol West. These extremes are at the ends of a clear continuum for all 650 UK constituencies: the larger the vote for Brexit in 2016 the smaller the percentage who have signed the petition. Regional surprises There are some variations around this general trend, however. For instance, far fewer voters in Wales, Scotland and, especially, Northern Ireland have supported the petition than in England. This is particularly surprising given that both Northern Ireland and Scotland voted to remain in 2016. A statistical model describing the general trend allows us to predict what the typical percentage signing the petition would be in constituencies with different Brexit votes in 2016. Based on such a model, we calculate that in English constituencies where 50 per cent supported Leave in the referendum, on average about 13 per cent signed the petition. In similar Scottish constituencies, it was only 6.1 per cent and in Northern Ireland only 5.4 per cent. Wales, of course, voted Leave, but in constituencies, there were around 50 per cent voted to leave, support for the petition now was about 10.4 per cent. For some reason, support for revoking Article 50 (as measured by this petition at least) has been smaller in the UK’s Celtic fringe. The critics – not surprisingly – are right, at least in the sense that the petition appeals most to Remain supporters. The geography of support for revoking Article 50 and the UK remaining in the EU is very largely the same as the geography of support for Remain three years ago: on average there has been no change – although we have to wonder why the Scots and Northern Irish have been relatively silent this time. *(Ron Johnston is Professor of Geography, University of Bristol, Charles Pattie is a Professor of Electoral Geography, University of Sheffield and David Manley is a Professor of Human Geography, University of Bristol. ) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Can the Revoke Article 50 petition change the course of Brexit?

Another crucial week for Brexit, It's time for another vote

Prime Minister Theresa May admitted Monday she had still not secured the votes needed to get her Brexit deal through parliament, raising again the prospect that Britain could crash out of the European Union in two weeks' time.

With the government's strategy in disarray, MPs are now expected to begin the process of charting their own way forward -- with all options back on the table.

Anxious at the deepening political crisis in London, EU leaders last week agreed to postpone Brexit to avoid a potentially catastrophic "no deal" divorce on March 29, when 46 years of ties were formally scheduled to end.

But they warned that unless May can persuade MPs this week to support her twice-rejected withdrawal deal, Britain must come up with a new plan by April 12 -- or leave its closest trading partner with no deal at all.

"It is with great regret that I have had to conclude that as things stand, there is still not sufficient support in the House to bring back the deal for a third meaningful vote," May told the House of Commons.

However, she voiced hope this might change in the coming days, warning the alternative could be a "slow Brexit" where Britain's departure is delayed for a long time.

Opposition Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said the government was a "national embarrassment", adding, "We will still face the prospect of a disastrous no-deal Brexit."

The EU had earlier ramped up the pressure by announcing its full readiness to deal with the "increasingly likely" event of a no-deal Brexit in three weeks.

'Chicken who bottled Brexit'

The British parliament remains deeply divided over Brexit, reflecting sharp divisions in the country almost three years after the 2016 EU referendum.

MPs have already voted against a "no deal" Brexit but this remains the default position unless they agree an alternative.

A cross-party group will on Monday try to force a debate for later this week on the way forward, which could ultimately see MPs legislate to force May to change course.

However, the prime minister said she was "sceptical" about this process, saying similar efforts in the past "produced contradictory outcomes or no outcomes at all".

May went over her own Brexit scenarios at an emergency cabinet meeting earlier Monday. It followed a weekend of media reports that her own ministers were trying to oust her.

Most of the alleged plotters are Brexit backers who fear the terms of Britain's departure being watered down or even reversed.

"Theresa May is the chicken who bottled Brexit," former foreign minister Boris Johnson wrote in a weekly column for The Telegraph.

"It is time for the PM to channel the spirit of Moses in Exodus, and say to Pharaoh in Brussels – LET MY PEOPLE GO," he wrote, leaving some room however for possibly supporting her deal.

Stop-Brexit petition

What happens to her premiership if parliament rallies around a more EU-friendly Brexit alternative that contradicts her policies is unclear.

Parliament is thought most likely to rally around the idea of keeping Britain in a customs union with the European Union or its single market.

Both of those policies contradict May's position.

A customs union would keep Britain from striking its own trade agreements with non-EU countries.

A single market would require the government to go back on May's promise to regain control of Britain's borders and migration policy.

Other alternatives include holding a second Brexit referendum and even revoking Article 50 -- the clause under which London notified Brussels of its intention to leave.

A petition to annul the two-year-old request had gathered 5.5 million signatures by Monday afternoon.

But the UK government is still busily preparing its EU divorce plans.

It launched a campaign Monday aimed at encouraging the estimated three million EU citizens in Britain to apply for settler status so that they can keep their current employment rights.

Prime Minister Theresa May admitted Monday she had still not secured the votes needed to get her Brexit deal through parliament, raising again the prospect that Britain could crash out of the European Union in two weeks' time.

Prime Minister Theresa May admitted Monday she had still not secured the votes needed to get her Brexit deal through parliament, raising again the prospect that Britain could crash out of the European Union in two weeks' time. With the government's strategy in disarray, MPs are now expected to begin the process of charting their own way forward -- with all options back on the table. Anxious at the deepening political crisis in London, EU leaders last week agreed to postpone Brexit to avoid a potentially catastrophic "no deal" divorce on March 29, when 46 years of ties were formally scheduled to end. But they warned that unless May can persuade MPs this week to support her twice-rejected withdrawal deal, Britain must come up with a new plan by April 12 -- or leave its closest trading partner with no deal at all. "It is with great regret that I have had to conclude that as things stand, there is still not sufficient support in the House to bring back the deal for a third meaningful vote," May told the House of Commons. However, she voiced hope this might change in the coming days, warning the alternative could be a "slow Brexit" where Britain's departure is delayed for a long time. Opposition Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said the government was a "national embarrassment", adding, "We will still face the prospect of a disastrous no-deal Brexit." The EU had earlier ramped up the pressure by announcing its full readiness to deal with the "increasingly likely" event of a no-deal Brexit in three weeks. 'Chicken who bottled Brexit' The British parliament remains deeply divided over Brexit, reflecting sharp divisions in the country almost three years after the 2016 EU referendum. MPs have already voted against a "no deal" Brexit but this remains the default position unless they agree an alternative. A cross-party group will on Monday try to force a debate for later this week on the way forward, which could ultimately see MPs legislate to force May to change course. However, the prime minister said she was "sceptical" about this process, saying similar efforts in the past "produced contradictory outcomes or no outcomes at all". May went over her own Brexit scenarios at an emergency cabinet meeting earlier Monday. It followed a weekend of media reports that her own ministers were trying to oust her. Most of the alleged plotters are Brexit backers who fear the terms of Britain's departure being watered down or even reversed. "Theresa May is the chicken who bottled Brexit," former foreign minister Boris Johnson wrote in a weekly column for The Telegraph. "It is time for the PM to channel the spirit of Moses in Exodus, and say to Pharaoh in Brussels – LET MY PEOPLE GO," he wrote, leaving some room however for possibly supporting her deal. Stop-Brexit petition What happens to her premiership if parliament rallies around a more EU-friendly Brexit alternative that contradicts her policies is unclear. Parliament is thought most likely to rally around the idea of keeping Britain in a customs union with the European Union or its single market. Both of those policies contradict May's position. A customs union would keep Britain from striking its own trade agreements with non-EU countries. A single market would require the government to go back on May's promise to regain control of Britain's borders and migration policy. Other alternatives include holding a second Brexit referendum and even revoking Article 50 -- the clause under which London notified Brussels of its intention to leave. A petition to annul the two-year-old request had gathered 5.5 million signatures by Monday afternoon. But the UK government is still busily preparing its EU divorce plans. It launched a campaign Monday aimed at encouraging the estimated three million EU citizens in Britain to apply for settler status so that they can keep their current employment rights.

Parliament support 'not sufficient' for third Brexit vote: Theresa May

The EU announced Monday it has completed its preparations for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-theresa-may-urged-to-set-her-own-exit-date-to-get-brexit-deal-report-205515">Britain crashing out of the bloc without a divorce accord</a>, as fears of a chaotic "no-deal" Brexit grow.

"As it is increasingly likely that the United Kingdom will leave the European Union without a deal on 12 April, the European Commission has today completed its 'no-deal' preparations," the commission, the bloc's executive arm, said in a statement.

The gloomily worded statement came just days after Brussels agreed to postpone Brexit from its previous March 29 deadline.

Unless British lawmakers approve a withdrawal agreement to ease the country out of the bloc, EU rules and agreements built up over 46 years of membership will cease to apply overnight, threatening havoc in almost every domain of life.

The commission outlined measures in 13 key areas, from rules on flying and road transport to travel regulations, fishing rights and banking -- while stressing that they would only reduce the disruption, not prevent it altogether.

"The EU's contingency measures will not -- and cannot -- mitigate the overall impact of a 'no-deal' scenario, nor do they in any way compensate for the lack of preparedness or replicate the full benefits of EU membership," the commission statements said.

"These proposals are temporary in nature, limited in scope and will be adopted unilaterally by the EU. They are not 'mini-deals' and have not been negotiated with the UK."

This last sentence is aimed at the numerous Brexit supporters in the British parliament who have sought to argue that the contingency measures would mean a no-deal exit would not be as bad as many fear.

Under no deal, the EU will immediately apply its rules at the border with the UK -- including customs checks, food safety inspections and verification of EU standards -- leading to long delays at busy crossing points such as Channel ports and the Channel Tunnel.

British citizens travelling to the EU will be limited to 90-day stays and would immediately be subject to tighter passport checks -- including possibly being asked to prove the purpose of their visit and that they have enough money to support themselves.

The EU announced Monday it has completed its preparations for Britain crashing out of the bloc without a divorce accord, as fears of a chaotic "no-deal" Brexit grow.

The EU announced Monday it has completed its preparations for Britain crashing out of the bloc without a divorce accord, as fears of a chaotic "no-deal" Brexit grow. "As it is increasingly likely that the United Kingdom will leave the European Union without a deal on 12 April, the European Commission has today completed its 'no-deal' preparations," the commission, the bloc's executive arm, said in a statement. The gloomily worded statement came just days after Brussels agreed to postpone Brexit from its previous March 29 deadline. Unless British lawmakers approve a withdrawal agreement to ease the country out of the bloc, EU rules and agreements built up over 46 years of membership will cease to apply overnight, threatening havoc in almost every domain of life. The commission outlined measures in 13 key areas, from rules on flying and road transport to travel regulations, fishing rights and banking -- while stressing that they would only reduce the disruption, not prevent it altogether. "The EU's contingency measures will not -- and cannot -- mitigate the overall impact of a 'no-deal' scenario, nor do they in any way compensate for the lack of preparedness or replicate the full benefits of EU membership," the commission statements said. "These proposals are temporary in nature, limited in scope and will be adopted unilaterally by the EU. They are not 'mini-deals' and have not been negotiated with the UK." This last sentence is aimed at the numerous Brexit supporters in the British parliament who have sought to argue that the contingency measures would mean a no-deal exit would not be as bad as many fear. Under no deal, the EU will immediately apply its rules at the border with the UK -- including customs checks, food safety inspections and verification of EU standards -- leading to long delays at busy crossing points such as Channel ports and the Channel Tunnel. British citizens travelling to the EU will be limited to 90-day stays and would immediately be subject to tighter passport checks -- including possibly being asked to prove the purpose of their visit and that they have enough money to support themselves.

European Union completes no-deal Brexit preparations

British Prime Minister<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/may-leaves-brexit-summit-with-more-time-less-respect-205389"> Theresa May was under pressure </a>on Monday to give a date for leaving office as the price to bring Brexit-supporting rebel lawmakers in her party behind her twice-defeated European Union divorce treaty.

At one of the most important junctures for the country in at least a generation, British politics was at fever pitch and, nearly three years since the 2016 EU membership referendum, it was still unclear how, when or if Brexit will ever take place.

With May humiliated and weakened, ministers lined up to insist she was still in charge and to deny a reported plot to demand she name a date to leave office at a cabinet meeting at 1000 GMT on Monday.

"Time's up, Theresa," Rupert Murdoch's Sun newspaper said in a front-page editorial. It said her one chance of getting the deal approved by parliament was to name a date for her departure.

"I hope that the cabinet will tell the prime minister the game is up," Andrew Bridgen, a Conservative lawmaker who supports Brexit, told Sky News.

"The prime minister does not have the confidence of the parliamentary party. She clearly doesn't have the confidence of the cabinet and she certainly doesn't have the confidence of our members out there in the country," he said.

Ministers will discuss at 0900 GMT how to address parliament's attempts to take control of Brexit before a meeting of May's cabinet team, a government source said.

The United Kingdom, which voted 52-48 per cent to leave the EU in the referendum, remains deeply divided over Brexit.

Just 24 hours after hundreds of thousands of people marched through London on Saturday to demand another referendum, May called rebel lawmakers to her Chequers residence on Sunday in an attempt to find a way to break the deadlock.

"The meeting discussed a range of issues, including whether there is sufficient support in the Commons to bring back a meaningful vote (for her deal) this week," a spokesman for May's Downing Street office said.

Boris Johnson, Jacob Rees-Mogg and Steve Baker attended along with ministers David Lidington and Michael Gove who had been reportedly lined up as caretaker prime ministers. They were forced on Sunday to deny they wanted May's job.

Mayday?

May was told by Brexiteers at the meeting she must set out a timetable to leave office if she wants to get her deal ratified, Buzzfeed reporter Alex Wickham said on Twitter.

May told the lawmakers she would quit if they voted for her twice-defeated European Union divorce deal, ITV news said.

The Sun's political editor, Tom Newton Dunn, said some ministers were urging May to pivot to a no-deal Brexit as the only way to survive in power.

The deal May negotiated with the EU was defeated in parliament by 149 votes on March 12 and by 230 votes on Jan. 15.

To get it passed, she must win over at least 75 MPs - dozens of rebels in her Conservative Party, some opposition Labour Party MPs and the Northern Irish Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), which props up her minority government.

The Sunday Times reported 11 unidentified ministers agreed May should stand down, warning she has become a toxic and erratic figure whose judgment has "gone haywire".

Brexit had been due to happen on March 29 before May secured a delay in talks with the EU. Now a departure date of May 22 will apply if parliament passes May's deal. If she fails, Britain will have until April 12 to offer a new plan or decide to leave without a treaty to smooth the transition and avoid an economic shock.

Lawmakers are due on Monday to debate the government's next steps on Brexit, including the delayed exit date. They have proposed changes, or amendments, including one which seeks to wrest control of the process from the government in order to hold votes on alternative ways forward.

Amendments are not legally binding, but do exert political pressure on May to change course.

British Prime Minister Theresa May was under pressure on Monday to give a date for leaving office as the price to bring Brexit-supporting rebel lawmakers in her party behind her twice-defeated European Union divorce treaty.

British Prime Minister Theresa May was under pressure on Monday to give a date for leaving office as the price to bring Brexit-supporting rebel lawmakers in her party behind her twice-defeated European Union divorce treaty. At one of the most important junctures for the country in at least a generation, British politics was at fever pitch and, nearly three years since the 2016 EU membership referendum, it was still unclear how, when or if Brexit will ever take place. With May humiliated and weakened, ministers lined up to insist she was still in charge and to deny a reported plot to demand she name a date to leave office at a cabinet meeting at 1000 GMT on Monday. "Time's up, Theresa," Rupert Murdoch's Sun newspaper said in a front-page editorial. It said her one chance of getting the deal approved by parliament was to name a date for her departure. "I hope that the cabinet will tell the prime minister the game is up," Andrew Bridgen, a Conservative lawmaker who supports Brexit, told Sky News. "The prime minister does not have the confidence of the parliamentary party. She clearly doesn't have the confidence of the cabinet and she certainly doesn't have the confidence of our members out there in the country," he said. Ministers will discuss at 0900 GMT how to address parliament's attempts to take control of Brexit before a meeting of May's cabinet team, a government source said. The United Kingdom, which voted 52-48 per cent to leave the EU in the referendum, remains deeply divided over Brexit. Just 24 hours after hundreds of thousands of people marched through London on Saturday to demand another referendum, May called rebel lawmakers to her Chequers residence on Sunday in an attempt to find a way to break the deadlock. "The meeting discussed a range of issues, including whether there is sufficient support in the Commons to bring back a meaningful vote (for her deal) this week," a spokesman for May's Downing Street office said. Boris Johnson, Jacob Rees-Mogg and Steve Baker attended along with ministers David Lidington and Michael Gove who had been reportedly lined up as caretaker prime ministers. They were forced on Sunday to deny they wanted May's job. Mayday? May was told by Brexiteers at the meeting she must set out a timetable to leave office if she wants to get her deal ratified, Buzzfeed reporter Alex Wickham said on Twitter. May told the lawmakers she would quit if they voted for her twice-defeated European Union divorce deal, ITV news said. The Sun's political editor, Tom Newton Dunn, said some ministers were urging May to pivot to a no-deal Brexit as the only way to survive in power. The deal May negotiated with the EU was defeated in parliament by 149 votes on March 12 and by 230 votes on Jan. 15. To get it passed, she must win over at least 75 MPs - dozens of rebels in her Conservative Party, some opposition Labour Party MPs and the Northern Irish Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), which props up her minority government. The Sunday Times reported 11 unidentified ministers agreed May should stand down, warning she has become a toxic and erratic figure whose judgment has "gone haywire". Brexit had been due to happen on March 29 before May secured a delay in talks with the EU. Now a departure date of May 22 will apply if parliament passes May's deal. If she fails, Britain will have until April 12 to offer a new plan or decide to leave without a treaty to smooth the transition and avoid an economic shock. Lawmakers are due on Monday to debate the government's next steps on Brexit, including the delayed exit date. They have proposed changes, or amendments, including one which seeks to wrest control of the process from the government in order to hold votes on alternative ways forward. Amendments are not legally binding, but do exert political pressure on May to change course.

UK PM Theresa May urged to set her own exit date to get Brexit deal: Report

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