Prime Minister Theresa May on Monday warned MPs against supporting <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/what-next-for-brexit-four-main-scenarios-184840">a second Brexit referendum</a>, as calls mounted for a public vote to break the political impasse over the deal she has struck with the EU.

"Let us not break faith with the British people by trying to stage another referendum," she told parliament.

"Another vote... would do irreparable damage to the integrity of our politics," May said, adding that a second vote "would likely leave us no further forward".

Britain voted to leave the European Union in a shock referendum in 2016 and is set to do so on March 29 next year, although the prime minister is struggling to persuade parliament to accept a divorce deal she struck last month.

'We must honour our duty' 
The government postponed a scheduled parliamentary vote on the agreement last week and on Monday May said it would finally be held in the week starting on January 14.

"We must honour our duty to finish this job," she said.

May has said she is engaged in talks with the EU to seek "assurances" about the Brexit deal, but European Commission spokesman Margaritis Schinas on Monday said "no further meetings with the United Kingdom are foreseen".

The draft deal was agreed only after tortuous talks in Brussels that began in March last year and EU leaders have ruled out any renegotiation, while the British economy has been languishing due to uncertainty over Brexit.

Blair vs May 
May last week survived a confidence vote initiated by members of her own Conservative Party because of her Brexit strategy, but she is badly weakened after a third of her parliamentary party voted to be rid of her.

Jeremy Corbyn, leader of the main opposition Labour Party, on Monday said Britain was in "a constitutional crisis and the prime minister is the architect of it".

"The prime minister has cynically run down the clock, trying to manoeuvre parliament into a choice between two unacceptable outcomes" -- her deal or no deal, Corbyn said.

In the face of calls for a second referendum to resolve the impasse, May has argued that this would betray the 2016 result and undermine public confidence in politics.

The issue provoked an extraordinary public clash on Sunday between May and former prime minister Tony Blair, a leading supporter of continued EU membership and of holding another poll.

May accused Blair of insulting voters and trying to undermine her government by meeting officials in Brussels.

Blair, who was premier between 1997 and 2007, in turn accused the Conservative leader of being "irresponsible".

But campaigners for a referendum said May's comments on Monday showed that the idea was being taken seriously.

"A new public vote would be different from the referendum in 2016 because we now know more about what Brexit means," said Margaret Beckett, an MP from the main opposition Labour Party and "People's Vote" supporter.

"Any effort to force Brexit over the line without checking that it has the continued consent of the British people will only reinforce divisions," she said.

MPs to vote on options? 
May has delayed a crucial vote by MPs on the draft Brexit deal until next month, leaving the political scene in limbo.

If parliament fails to approve the text, Britain could crash out of the EU regardless -- a prospect that experts warn could lead to serious trade disruption and trigger a financial crisis.

Dozens of MPs from all sides support a second referendum and there have been reports that officials are considering the possibility of giving the public a vote.

Another proposal being put forward if May's deal does not pass parliament is for MPs to hold indicative votes on different options to work out what steps to take next.

Business Secretary Greg Clark told BBC radio that "parliament should be invited to say what it would agree with" instead of just criticising May's deal.

Other cabinet ministers are also reported to favour a scenario of asking MPs to vote on options that could include a no-deal Brexit, a second referendum, and a "Norway option" to keep closer economic ties with the EU.

Asked about the possibility of holding a series of votes like this, May's spokesman on Monday said there were&nbsp;

Prime Minister Theresa May on Monday warned MPs against supporting a second Brexit referendum, as calls mounted for a public vote to break the political impasse over the deal she has struck with the EU.

Prime Minister Theresa May on Monday warned MPs against supporting a second Brexit referendum, as calls mounted for a public vote to break the political impasse over the deal she has struck with the EU. "Let us not break faith with the British people by trying to stage another referendum," she told parliament. "Another vote... would do irreparable damage to the integrity of our politics," May said, adding that a second vote "would likely leave us no further forward". Britain voted to leave the European Union in a shock referendum in 2016 and is set to do so on March 29 next year, although the prime minister is struggling to persuade parliament to accept a divorce deal she struck last month. 'We must honour our duty' The government postponed a scheduled parliamentary vote on the agreement last week and on Monday May said it would finally be held in the week starting on January 14. "We must honour our duty to finish this job," she said. May has said she is engaged in talks with the EU to seek "assurances" about the Brexit deal, but European Commission spokesman Margaritis Schinas on Monday said "no further meetings with the United Kingdom are foreseen". The draft deal was agreed only after tortuous talks in Brussels that began in March last year and EU leaders have ruled out any renegotiation, while the British economy has been languishing due to uncertainty over Brexit. Blair vs May May last week survived a confidence vote initiated by members of her own Conservative Party because of her Brexit strategy, but she is badly weakened after a third of her parliamentary party voted to be rid of her. Jeremy Corbyn, leader of the main opposition Labour Party, on Monday said Britain was in "a constitutional crisis and the prime minister is the architect of it". "The prime minister has cynically run down the clock, trying to manoeuvre parliament into a choice between two unacceptable outcomes" -- her deal or no deal, Corbyn said. In the face of calls for a second referendum to resolve the impasse, May has argued that this would betray the 2016 result and undermine public confidence in politics. The issue provoked an extraordinary public clash on Sunday between May and former prime minister Tony Blair, a leading supporter of continued EU membership and of holding another poll. May accused Blair of insulting voters and trying to undermine her government by meeting officials in Brussels. Blair, who was premier between 1997 and 2007, in turn accused the Conservative leader of being "irresponsible". But campaigners for a referendum said May's comments on Monday showed that the idea was being taken seriously. "A new public vote would be different from the referendum in 2016 because we now know more about what Brexit means," said Margaret Beckett, an MP from the main opposition Labour Party and "People's Vote" supporter. "Any effort to force Brexit over the line without checking that it has the continued consent of the British people will only reinforce divisions," she said. MPs to vote on options? May has delayed a crucial vote by MPs on the draft Brexit deal until next month, leaving the political scene in limbo. If parliament fails to approve the text, Britain could crash out of the EU regardless -- a prospect that experts warn could lead to serious trade disruption and trigger a financial crisis. Dozens of MPs from all sides support a second referendum and there have been reports that officials are considering the possibility of giving the public a vote. Another proposal being put forward if May's deal does not pass parliament is for MPs to hold indicative votes on different options to work out what steps to take next. Business Secretary Greg Clark told BBC radio that "parliament should be invited to say what it would agree with" instead of just criticising May's deal. Other cabinet ministers are also reported to favour a scenario of asking MPs to vote on options that could include a no-deal Brexit, a second referendum, and a "Norway option" to keep closer economic ties with the EU. Asked about the possibility of holding a series of votes like this, May's spokesman on Monday said there were

As calls mount, UK PM May warns MPs against second Brexit referendum

Prime Minister Theresa May on Monday will warn MPs against supporting <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/britain-not-planning-second-referendum-on-brexit-minister-184494">a second referendum</a>, saying it would do "irreparable damage" to British politics.

"Let us not break faith with the British people by trying to stage another referendum," she is expected to tell parliament, according to extracts from her speech released by Downing Street.

"Another vote... would do irreparable damage to the integrity of our politics," she will say, adding that a second vote "would likely leave us no further forward".

She will warn that another referendum would also "further divide our country at the very moment we should be working to unite it".

Britain voted to leave the European Union in a referendum in 2016 and is set to leave on March 29 next year, although May is struggling to get parliament to accept a divorce agreement she struck last month.

May has faced calls for a second referendum to resolve the impasse but has argued that this would betray the 2016 result and undermine public confidence in politics.

Campaigners for a referendum said May's comments on Monday showed that the idea is being taken seriously.

"A new public vote would be different from the referendum in 2016 because we now know more about what Brexit means," said Margaret Beckett, an MP from the main opposition Labour Party and "People's Vote" supporter.

"Any effort to force Brexit over the line without checking that it has the continued consent of the British people will only reinforce divisions," she said.

Dozens of MPs from all the main parties also support a second referendum, as do former prime ministers John Major and Tony Blair.

There have also been reports that government officials are considering giving the public a vote.

May has delayed a crucial vote by MPs on the draft Brexit deal until next month, leaving the political scene in limbo.

If parliament fails to approve the text, Britain will crash out of the European Union regardless -- a prospect that experts warn could lead to serious trade disruption and trigger a financial crisis.

But former foreign secretary Boris Johnson, a leading Brexit campaigner, said anyone considering a second referendum was "out of their minds".

"A second referendum would provoke instant, deep and ineradicable feelings of betrayal," he wrote on Monday in his weekly column in the Daily Telegraph.

Prime Minister Theresa May on Monday will warn MPs against supporting a second referendum, saying it would do "irreparable damage" to British politics. "Let us not break faith with the British people by trying to stage another referendum," she is expected to tell parliament, according to extracts from her speech released by Downing Street.

Prime Minister Theresa May on Monday will warn MPs against supporting a second referendum, saying it would do "irreparable damage" to British politics. "Let us not break faith with the British people by trying to stage another referendum," she is expected to tell parliament, according to extracts from her speech released by Downing Street. "Another vote... would do irreparable damage to the integrity of our politics," she will say, adding that a second vote "would likely leave us no further forward". She will warn that another referendum would also "further divide our country at the very moment we should be working to unite it". Britain voted to leave the European Union in a referendum in 2016 and is set to leave on March 29 next year, although May is struggling to get parliament to accept a divorce agreement she struck last month. May has faced calls for a second referendum to resolve the impasse but has argued that this would betray the 2016 result and undermine public confidence in politics. Campaigners for a referendum said May's comments on Monday showed that the idea is being taken seriously. "A new public vote would be different from the referendum in 2016 because we now know more about what Brexit means," said Margaret Beckett, an MP from the main opposition Labour Party and "People's Vote" supporter. "Any effort to force Brexit over the line without checking that it has the continued consent of the British people will only reinforce divisions," she said. Dozens of MPs from all the main parties also support a second referendum, as do former prime ministers John Major and Tony Blair. There have also been reports that government officials are considering giving the public a vote. May has delayed a crucial vote by MPs on the draft Brexit deal until next month, leaving the political scene in limbo. If parliament fails to approve the text, Britain will crash out of the European Union regardless -- a prospect that experts warn could lead to serious trade disruption and trigger a financial crisis. But former foreign secretary Boris Johnson, a leading Brexit campaigner, said anyone considering a second referendum was "out of their minds". "A second referendum would provoke instant, deep and ineradicable feelings of betrayal," he wrote on Monday in his weekly column in the Daily Telegraph.

UK PM May to warn against 'damage' of second Brexit vote

Perhaps one of the most important events of 2018, Brexit will completely change&nbsp;the fabric of the UK's economy.

And while its impact is still to be understood full, HBO has created a drama on it. Titled 'Brexit', the movie's trailer was recently released.&nbsp;

The film has Benedict Cumberbatch playing the man — Dominic Cummings — who orchestrated the "Vote Leave"&nbsp;campaign. Cummings was the Vote Leave campaign director from its creation in October 2015.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/E5S1EMmCWAE" width="560"></iframe>

The trailer has Cumberbatch playing the 'man behind Brexit', who goes around asking questions to the people of UK and creating an awareness about why the country had to leave the European Union. &nbsp;“Is it immigration? You can be honest. Is it race? Which countries don’t you like?” Cumberbatch can be seen asking.&nbsp;

The film’s trailer though received criticism on social media platforms as UK remains undivided on whether the decision to leave EU was taken fairly or not.&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
How dare you make money from a criminal activity that its investigations are still ongoing!!!!
— Minoo Osborne (@MinooOsborne) <a href="https://twitter.com/MinooOsborne/status/1073881895736406017?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Perhaps one of the most important events of 2018, Brexit will completely change the fabric of the UK's economy. And while its impact is still to be understood full, HBO has created a drama on it.

Perhaps one of the most important events of 2018, Brexit will completely change the fabric of the UK's economy. And while its impact is still to be understood full, HBO has created a drama on it. Titled 'Brexit', the movie's trailer was recently released. The film has Benedict Cumberbatch playing the man — Dominic Cummings — who orchestrated the "Vote Leave" campaign. Cummings was the Vote Leave campaign director from its creation in October 2015. The trailer has Cumberbatch playing the 'man behind Brexit', who goes around asking questions to the people of UK and creating an awareness about why the country had to leave the European Union. “Is it immigration? You can be honest. Is it race? Which countries don’t you like?” Cumberbatch can be seen asking. The film’s trailer though received criticism on social media platforms as UK remains undivided on whether the decision to leave EU was taken fairly or not. How dare you make money from a criminal activity that its investigations are still ongoing!!!! — Minoo Osborne (@MinooOsborne) December 15, 2018 ×

'Brexit' trailer: Benedict Cumberbatch plays man behind the 'Vote Leave' campaign

British Prime Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/theresa-may-survives-confidence-vote-but-her-brexit-deal-is-still-in-deep-trouble-183608">Theresa May</a> faces a dwindling number of options over <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/what-next-for-brexit-as-may-faces-a-leadership-battle-183491">Brexit</a> after EU leaders at a summit last week rebuffed her attempts to tweak a Brexit deal she struck with them.

Here are the four main scenarios facing Britain while the clock ticks down to March 29, 2019,&nbsp;the day it is scheduled to depart the European project after 46 years:

Deal&nbsp;

This is the Brexit that the British government and EU leaders want&nbsp;and one which the British parliament refuses to accept.

The deal has been rejected from opposing wings of parliament for either keeping Britain tied too closely or remotely to the European Union.

May aborted a vote on the deal set for last week because of its certain defeat.

Brexit backers in her party then plotted an ultimately unsuccessful coup that saw more than a third back a motion to force May out.

May promised them she would wring concessions from Brussels but apparently failed to do so at a summit last week.

May's government intends to reintroduce the very same draft for a vote sometime between January 7 and January 21.

It will hope that fear of the chaos that a no-deal exit might bring will force lawmakers to put aside their reservations.

No-deal&nbsp;

This is billed as the doomsday scenario that threatens to trigger a recession in Britain and markedly slow the European Union's economic growth.

It is the default option if the British parliament votes against the deal and there are no other solutions.

May's agreement was meant to keep trade rules between the world's fifth-biggest economy and largest single market almost unchanged for a transition period running through the end of 2020.

A sudden shift to different standards would impact almost every economic sector&nbsp;and possibly see the costs of everyday products in Britain soar.

Both sides have been forced to ramp up their preparations for a disorderly Brexit over the past few weeks.

UK businesses are stockpiling goods while Brussels is trying to find a way to maintain free-flowing operations involving London's massive financial services hub.

Second referendum&nbsp;

EU supporters have been calling for another vote ever since the first one backed Leave by a 52-48 margin in June 2016.

There is no law keeping Britain from doing it all over again, but many questions whether this would be democratic and why a second attempt should take precedence over the first.

It also threatens to be just as divisive with opinion polls showing the country still split over the issue.

Calls for another vote have ramped up over the last few months, with former prime minister Tony Blair on Sunday saying "what seemed a few months ago unlikely is now I would say above a 50 per cent likelihood."

Proponents argue that the Brexit people were promised looks nothing like the deal on offer and that Britons never backed a no-deal scenario.

Some members of May's cabinet are reported to be pushing for a second vote, but the prime minister is against the move, warning it "would do irreparable damage to the integrity of our politics."

It is also unclear what options to give people in a second ballot and what happens if Brexit wins again.

Parliament votes on options&nbsp;

Another possibility that has come to the fore in recent days is for several non-binding votes to be held in parliament on different Brexit options to effectively determine the government's strategy.

The first would be on May's deal but others could include a no-deal Brexit, a second referendum or a "Norway deal" that would keep Britain much more closely anchored to the European single market and allow unfettered immigration.

Business secretary Greg Clark appeared to hint at this on Monday, telling BBC radio that parliament should be "invited to say what it would agree with" if it votes against the draft Brexit agreement on the table.

Other cabinet ministers including finance minister Philip Hammond are reportedly in favour of this solution as a democratic way to end the current limbo.

British Prime Minister Theresa May faces a dwindling number of options over Brexit after EU leaders at a summit last week rebuffed her attempts to tweak a Brexit deal she struck with them.

British Prime Minister Theresa May faces a dwindling number of options over Brexit after EU leaders at a summit last week rebuffed her attempts to tweak a Brexit deal she struck with them. Here are the four main scenarios facing Britain while the clock ticks down to March 29, 2019, the day it is scheduled to depart the European project after 46 years: Deal This is the Brexit that the British government and EU leaders want and one which the British parliament refuses to accept. The deal has been rejected from opposing wings of parliament for either keeping Britain tied too closely or remotely to the European Union. May aborted a vote on the deal set for last week because of its certain defeat. Brexit backers in her party then plotted an ultimately unsuccessful coup that saw more than a third back a motion to force May out. May promised them she would wring concessions from Brussels but apparently failed to do so at a summit last week. May's government intends to reintroduce the very same draft for a vote sometime between January 7 and January 21. It will hope that fear of the chaos that a no-deal exit might bring will force lawmakers to put aside their reservations. No-deal This is billed as the doomsday scenario that threatens to trigger a recession in Britain and markedly slow the European Union's economic growth. It is the default option if the British parliament votes against the deal and there are no other solutions. May's agreement was meant to keep trade rules between the world's fifth-biggest economy and largest single market almost unchanged for a transition period running through the end of 2020. A sudden shift to different standards would impact almost every economic sector and possibly see the costs of everyday products in Britain soar. Both sides have been forced to ramp up their preparations for a disorderly Brexit over the past few weeks. UK businesses are stockpiling goods while Brussels is trying to find a way to maintain free-flowing operations involving London's massive financial services hub. Second referendum EU supporters have been calling for another vote ever since the first one backed Leave by a 52-48 margin in June 2016. There is no law keeping Britain from doing it all over again, but many questions whether this would be democratic and why a second attempt should take precedence over the first. It also threatens to be just as divisive with opinion polls showing the country still split over the issue. Calls for another vote have ramped up over the last few months, with former prime minister Tony Blair on Sunday saying "what seemed a few months ago unlikely is now I would say above a 50 per cent likelihood." Proponents argue that the Brexit people were promised looks nothing like the deal on offer and that Britons never backed a no-deal scenario. Some members of May's cabinet are reported to be pushing for a second vote, but the prime minister is against the move, warning it "would do irreparable damage to the integrity of our politics." It is also unclear what options to give people in a second ballot and what happens if Brexit wins again. Parliament votes on options Another possibility that has come to the fore in recent days is for several non-binding votes to be held in parliament on different Brexit options to effectively determine the government's strategy. The first would be on May's deal but others could include a no-deal Brexit, a second referendum or a "Norway deal" that would keep Britain much more closely anchored to the European single market and allow unfettered immigration. Business secretary Greg Clark appeared to hint at this on Monday, telling BBC radio that parliament should be "invited to say what it would agree with" if it votes against the draft Brexit agreement on the table. Other cabinet ministers including finance minister Philip Hammond are reportedly in favour of this solution as a democratic way to end the current limbo.

What next for Brexit? Four main scenarios

Asian markets mostly rose Monday as traders look ahead to a key meeting of the Federal Reserve, and a Chinese policy-setting conference this week.

However, there is <a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/imf-says-trade-war-already-hurting-asia-may-cut-global-growth-forecasts-184777">still caution on trading floors </a>after Friday's sharp sell-off fuelled by concerns over China's economy, and despite a tweet from Donald Trump suggesting a trade deal could be hammered out between Washington and Beijing.

While there are signs the world's top two economies are beginning to move towards a resolution in their bitter tariffs spat, there are increasing concerns about the global outlook following another dour set of indicators out of China.

A string of below-par readings this year have highlighted a slowdown in the Asian giant and observers are forecasting leaders will unveil fresh measures to pep up the economy, which is on course for another year of relatively weak growth.

A speech from President Xi Jinping on Tuesday to mark 40 years since China's economy began opening up will be closely watched, and that is expected to be followed by the start of a conference setting out the country's 2019 economic plan.

"We should expect a raft of stimulus measures from China policymakers in an attempt to stabilise the domestic economy," said Stephen Innes, head of Asia-Pacific trade at OANDA.

The Fed will conclude its rate-setting policy meeting Wednesday and while expectations are for another hike in borrowing costs, comments from chairman Jerome Powell will be closely watched for an idea of its plans for 2019.

'A lot of volatility'

In light of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/the-trump-china-trade-war-how-will-it-end-171248">China-US trade</a> row and signs of weakness in the global economy, the bank has sounded a little more dovish in recent weeks, fuelling speculation it will slow down its pace of rate hikes -- which has provided some much-needed support to equities.

"The upcoming (Fed) meeting and China's policy-setting meeting have been the most actively discussed topics around the markets," Innes added. "And both events have a smoothing effect on risk sentiment."

Shanghai climbed 0.2 per cent and Tokyo finished 0.6 per cent higher, while Sydney put on one per cent and Singapore jumped 1.2 per cent.

Seoul and Taipei each gained 0.1 per cent while Wellington added 0.3 per cent. There were also gains in Mumbai and Manila, though Hong Kong inched down marginally.

In early European trade London dipped 0.1 per cent, Paris dropped 0.3 per cent and Frankfurt eased 0.2 per cent.

Steve Goldman, fund manager at Kapstream Capital, told Bloomberg TV in Sydney that "we're going to see a lot of volatility" in the new year because of global uncertainty.

Hopes that China and the US can reach a deal to end their trade war were given a boost by Trump on Friday when he tweeted: "China wants to make a big and very comprehensive deal. It could happen, and rather soon!"&nbsp;

That came after China earlier in the day backed off fresh levies imposed this summer on US-made cars and auto parts.

While a full-blown deal is some way off, the developments have provided some hope to dealers.

On currency markets, the pound remains bogged down around 20-month lows as Prime Minister Theresa May struggles to win concessions from EU leaders over her <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/brexit-vote-postponed-what-parliament-must-do-now-to-fix-theresa-mays-mess-183154">Brexit agreement</a>, which a majority of lawmakers in Westminster oppose.

Facing growing calls for another referendum to break the deadlock, May is expected to tell MPs that such a move will do "irreparable damage" to British politics.

However, with her agreement all but dead in the water, there is a growing expectation Britain will leave the EU without a deal, which commentators warn could hammer the British economy.

Asian markets mostly rose Monday as traders look ahead to a key meeting of the Federal Reserve, and a Chinese policy-setting conference this week. However, there is still caution on trading floors after Friday's sharp sell-off fuelled by concerns over China's economy, and despite a tweet from Donald Trump suggesting a trade deal could be hammered out between Washington and Beijing.

Asian markets mostly rose Monday as traders look ahead to a key meeting of the Federal Reserve, and a Chinese policy-setting conference this week. However, there is still caution on trading floors after Friday's sharp sell-off fuelled by concerns over China's economy, and despite a tweet from Donald Trump suggesting a trade deal could be hammered out between Washington and Beijing. While there are signs the world's top two economies are beginning to move towards a resolution in their bitter tariffs spat, there are increasing concerns about the global outlook following another dour set of indicators out of China. A string of below-par readings this year have highlighted a slowdown in the Asian giant and observers are forecasting leaders will unveil fresh measures to pep up the economy, which is on course for another year of relatively weak growth. A speech from President Xi Jinping on Tuesday to mark 40 years since China's economy began opening up will be closely watched, and that is expected to be followed by the start of a conference setting out the country's 2019 economic plan. "We should expect a raft of stimulus measures from China policymakers in an attempt to stabilise the domestic economy," said Stephen Innes, head of Asia-Pacific trade at OANDA. The Fed will conclude its rate-setting policy meeting Wednesday and while expectations are for another hike in borrowing costs, comments from chairman Jerome Powell will be closely watched for an idea of its plans for 2019. 'A lot of volatility' In light of the China-US trade row and signs of weakness in the global economy, the bank has sounded a little more dovish in recent weeks, fuelling speculation it will slow down its pace of rate hikes -- which has provided some much-needed support to equities. "The upcoming (Fed) meeting and China's policy-setting meeting have been the most actively discussed topics around the markets," Innes added. "And both events have a smoothing effect on risk sentiment." Shanghai climbed 0.2 per cent and Tokyo finished 0.6 per cent higher, while Sydney put on one per cent and Singapore jumped 1.2 per cent. Seoul and Taipei each gained 0.1 per cent while Wellington added 0.3 per cent. There were also gains in Mumbai and Manila, though Hong Kong inched down marginally. In early European trade London dipped 0.1 per cent, Paris dropped 0.3 per cent and Frankfurt eased 0.2 per cent. Steve Goldman, fund manager at Kapstream Capital, told Bloomberg TV in Sydney that "we're going to see a lot of volatility" in the new year because of global uncertainty. Hopes that China and the US can reach a deal to end their trade war were given a boost by Trump on Friday when he tweeted: "China wants to make a big and very comprehensive deal. It could happen, and rather soon!" That came after China earlier in the day backed off fresh levies imposed this summer on US-made cars and auto parts. While a full-blown deal is some way off, the developments have provided some hope to dealers. On currency markets, the pound remains bogged down around 20-month lows as Prime Minister Theresa May struggles to win concessions from EU leaders over her Brexit agreement, which a majority of lawmakers in Westminster oppose. Facing growing calls for another referendum to break the deadlock, May is expected to tell MPs that such a move will do "irreparable damage" to British politics. However, with her agreement all but dead in the water, there is a growing expectation Britain will leave the EU without a deal, which commentators warn could hammer the British economy.

Asian markets rise ahead of key meetings in China and US

As Britain's divorce from the European Union stumbles ahead, hardliners pushing for a full break are finding support in one foreign capital -- Washington.

Prime Minister Theresa May, who is barely holding on to power at home, found a frosty reception on her latest mission to Brussels as she struggles to sell Brexit on her terms.

Nor is she finding much support from US President Donald Trump, who has openly questioned her Brexit deal, instead favoring a full break.&nbsp;

Right-wing critics fear the current deal could leave Britain indefinitely in the EU customs union so as to prevent restoration of the border between Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Trump, speaking to reporters soon after May announced her Brexit package, dismissed it as "a great deal for the EU."

He suggested that the agreement could hold back a trade deal between the United States and Britain -- which conservatives in both countries have dangled as an incentive if Britain leaves the European Union.

"That would be a very big negative for the deal," Trump said.

'Back of the queue'

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has also embraced Brexit since he took over from the less ideological Rex Tillerson.&nbsp;

In a recent Fox News interview, Pompeo promised to pursue the vaunted US-Britain "special relationship" in the increasingly likely scenario of a "hard Brexit" without a negotiated deal.

Trump's enthusiasm for Brexit stands in marked contrast to the views of his predecessor Barack Obama, who had warned that Britain would be at the "back of the queue" for a US trade deal if it left the European Union.

In line with the thinking of much of the foreign policy establishment in both countries, Obama said that a Britain integrated within a forward-looking European Union was better for all sides economically and politically.

For Trump, Britain's 2016 referendum to leave the European Union foreshadowed his own election, with few experts predicting the groundswell of support outside major cities.

Looser ties to Europe

Nile Gardiner, an aide to former prime minister Margaret Thatcher now at the Heritage Foundation, a conservative US think tank, said Brexit was a natural philosophical fit for Trump. The American president has championed an "America First" policy suspicious of multinational institutions.

Gardiner said that Brexit would also have a practical benefit for Trump in pulling Britain out of a common EU foreign policy.

"Britain has been very heavily EU-focused for the last few decades," Gardiner said. "I would envisage a British foreign policy that is much more closely aligned with the United States."

He said, for example, that a successor to May supportive of hard Brexit could part ways with the European Union on championing a denuclearization deal with Iran.

Trump has enjoyed no support among Western leaders after exiting the multiparty deal negotiated by Obama and has reimposed punishing sanctions on Iran.

A post-Brexit Britain would also be certain to steer clear of a common European defense separate from NATO, as proposed by French President Emmanuel Macron with the support of German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Gardiner said.

'Very disruptive'

Yet even as part of the EU, Britain has been the premier international ally of the United States, controversially joining the invasion of Iraq despite widespread European opposition.

Kelly Magsamen, a vice president at the left-leaning Center for American Progress, called Trump's impact on Brexit "very disruptive." She said that US policy toward such a close ally should be, fundamentally, to "do no harm."

"Our objective at this point should be to contain whatever economic damage there may be from Brexit for both us and our allies. But also our objective should not be to make things worse for Theresa May or Angela Merkel," she said.

She said she doubted that Britain's core international policies would change much after Brexit -- but feared that a newly preoccupied Britain might be less active.

"The UK is going to be so inwardly consumed with managing the impact of Brexit that we could lose a focused partner on the international stage for a period of time," Magsamen said.

A recent survey by Emerson College in Boston found that the US public lacks firm views on whether Britain or the European Union would be a more important partner after Brexit.

But more than 90 percent of those surveyed said they valued a good relationship with Britain, with a strong majority supportive of a trade agreement.

As Britain's divorce from the European Union stumbles ahead, hardliners pushing for a full break are finding support in one foreign capital -- Washington. Prime Minister Theresa May, who is barely holding on to power at home, found a frosty reception on her latest mission to Brussels as she struggles to sell Brexit on her terms.

As Britain's divorce from the European Union stumbles ahead, hardliners pushing for a full break are finding support in one foreign capital -- Washington. Prime Minister Theresa May, who is barely holding on to power at home, found a frosty reception on her latest mission to Brussels as she struggles to sell Brexit on her terms. Nor is she finding much support from US President Donald Trump, who has openly questioned her Brexit deal, instead favoring a full break. Right-wing critics fear the current deal could leave Britain indefinitely in the EU customs union so as to prevent restoration of the border between Ireland and Northern Ireland. Trump, speaking to reporters soon after May announced her Brexit package, dismissed it as "a great deal for the EU." He suggested that the agreement could hold back a trade deal between the United States and Britain -- which conservatives in both countries have dangled as an incentive if Britain leaves the European Union. "That would be a very big negative for the deal," Trump said. 'Back of the queue' US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has also embraced Brexit since he took over from the less ideological Rex Tillerson. In a recent Fox News interview, Pompeo promised to pursue the vaunted US-Britain "special relationship" in the increasingly likely scenario of a "hard Brexit" without a negotiated deal. Trump's enthusiasm for Brexit stands in marked contrast to the views of his predecessor Barack Obama, who had warned that Britain would be at the "back of the queue" for a US trade deal if it left the European Union. In line with the thinking of much of the foreign policy establishment in both countries, Obama said that a Britain integrated within a forward-looking European Union was better for all sides economically and politically. For Trump, Britain's 2016 referendum to leave the European Union foreshadowed his own election, with few experts predicting the groundswell of support outside major cities. Looser ties to Europe Nile Gardiner, an aide to former prime minister Margaret Thatcher now at the Heritage Foundation, a conservative US think tank, said Brexit was a natural philosophical fit for Trump. The American president has championed an "America First" policy suspicious of multinational institutions. Gardiner said that Brexit would also have a practical benefit for Trump in pulling Britain out of a common EU foreign policy. "Britain has been very heavily EU-focused for the last few decades," Gardiner said. "I would envisage a British foreign policy that is much more closely aligned with the United States." He said, for example, that a successor to May supportive of hard Brexit could part ways with the European Union on championing a denuclearization deal with Iran. Trump has enjoyed no support among Western leaders after exiting the multiparty deal negotiated by Obama and has reimposed punishing sanctions on Iran. A post-Brexit Britain would also be certain to steer clear of a common European defense separate from NATO, as proposed by French President Emmanuel Macron with the support of German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Gardiner said. 'Very disruptive' Yet even as part of the EU, Britain has been the premier international ally of the United States, controversially joining the invasion of Iraq despite widespread European opposition. Kelly Magsamen, a vice president at the left-leaning Center for American Progress, called Trump's impact on Brexit "very disruptive." She said that US policy toward such a close ally should be, fundamentally, to "do no harm." "Our objective at this point should be to contain whatever economic damage there may be from Brexit for both us and our allies. But also our objective should not be to make things worse for Theresa May or Angela Merkel," she said. She said she doubted that Britain's core international policies would change much after Brexit -- but feared that a newly preoccupied Britain might be less active. "The UK is going to be so inwardly consumed with managing the impact of Brexit that we could lose a focused partner on the international stage for a period of time," Magsamen said. A recent survey by Emerson College in Boston found that the US public lacks firm views on whether Britain or the European Union would be a more important partner after Brexit. But more than 90 percent of those surveyed said they valued a good relationship with Britain, with a strong majority supportive of a trade agreement.

As Brexit muddles along, Trump roots for a full break

An extraordinary public row broke out Sunday between British Prime Minister Theresa May and former Labour party leader Tony Blair over her Brexit deal.

May accused Blair of insulting voters and trying to undermine her government with calls for a second referendum to break the political deadlock over the divorce deal she struck with the EU.

"For Tony Blair to go to Brussels and seek to undermine our negotiations by advocating for a second referendum is an insult to the office he once held and the people he once served," May said in a statement issued late Saturday.

"We cannot, as he would, abdicate responsibility for this decision. Parliament has a democratic duty to deliver what the British people voted for."

Blair, who was Labour prime minister between 1997 and 2007, on Sunday accused the Conservative leader of being "irresponsible".

"The sensible thing is now to allow parliament to vote on each of the forms of Brexit canvassed, including the prime minister's deal," he said in a statement.

"If they can't reach agreement then the logical thing is to go back to the people."

He added: "What is irresponsible however is to try to steamroller MPs into accepting a deal they genuinely think is a bad one with the threat that if they do not fall into line, the government will have the country crash out (of the EU) without a deal."

Blair opposes Brexit and, as May's deal faces opposition on all sides of the House of Commons, he has stepped up calls for the public to vote again.

His latest speech on the issue came on Friday, as May was meeting EU leaders in Brussels to discuss how to save the agreement.

May has repeatedly ruled out holding a new referendum, saying the result in 2016 was clear.

But growing numbers of MPs believe a "people's vote" is the only way to break an impasse that risks Britain leaving the EU on March 29 without any agreement at all.

May's chief of staff, Gavin Barwell, was on Sunday forced to deny reports that he was planning for such an outcome.

The same reports also said May's effective deputy, David Lidington, was in talks with opposition Labour MPs about a new vote.

Lidington replied that he always listened to MPs' views but pointed to recent remarks in parliament where he said a second referendum may not be decisive and could damage confidence in democracy.

Separately, Foreign Minister Jeremy Hunt suggested Britain could thrive if it left the EU with no deal, and admitted he would like to "have a crack" at May's job.

"But I think the first thing is to get us through this challenging next few months and I passionately believe Theresa May is the person to do that," he told the Sunday Telegraph.

An extraordinary public row broke out Sunday between British Prime Minister Theresa May and former Labour party leader Tony Blair over her Brexit deal. May accused Blair of insulting voters and trying to undermine her government with calls for a second referendum to break the political deadlock over the divorce deal she struck with the EU.

An extraordinary public row broke out Sunday between British Prime Minister Theresa May and former Labour party leader Tony Blair over her Brexit deal. May accused Blair of insulting voters and trying to undermine her government with calls for a second referendum to break the political deadlock over the divorce deal she struck with the EU. "For Tony Blair to go to Brussels and seek to undermine our negotiations by advocating for a second referendum is an insult to the office he once held and the people he once served," May said in a statement issued late Saturday. "We cannot, as he would, abdicate responsibility for this decision. Parliament has a democratic duty to deliver what the British people voted for." Blair, who was Labour prime minister between 1997 and 2007, on Sunday accused the Conservative leader of being "irresponsible". "The sensible thing is now to allow parliament to vote on each of the forms of Brexit canvassed, including the prime minister's deal," he said in a statement. "If they can't reach agreement then the logical thing is to go back to the people." He added: "What is irresponsible however is to try to steamroller MPs into accepting a deal they genuinely think is a bad one with the threat that if they do not fall into line, the government will have the country crash out (of the EU) without a deal." Blair opposes Brexit and, as May's deal faces opposition on all sides of the House of Commons, he has stepped up calls for the public to vote again. His latest speech on the issue came on Friday, as May was meeting EU leaders in Brussels to discuss how to save the agreement. May has repeatedly ruled out holding a new referendum, saying the result in 2016 was clear. But growing numbers of MPs believe a "people's vote" is the only way to break an impasse that risks Britain leaving the EU on March 29 without any agreement at all. May's chief of staff, Gavin Barwell, was on Sunday forced to deny reports that he was planning for such an outcome. The same reports also said May's effective deputy, David Lidington, was in talks with opposition Labour MPs about a new vote. Lidington replied that he always listened to MPs' views but pointed to recent remarks in parliament where he said a second referendum may not be decisive and could damage confidence in democracy. Separately, Foreign Minister Jeremy Hunt suggested Britain could thrive if it left the EU with no deal, and admitted he would like to "have a crack" at May's job. "But I think the first thing is to get us through this challenging next few months and I passionately believe Theresa May is the person to do that," he told the Sunday Telegraph.

Britain's May clashes with Blair over Brexit

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/un-calls-for-credible-probe-into-khashoggi-murder-184518">UN chief Guterres calls for 'credible' probe into Khashoggi murder</a>

The UN chief said he had no information on the case except what had been reported in the media. "It is absolutely essential to have a credible investigation and to have the punishment of those that were guilty," Guterres said at a conference in Doha.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/game-of-building-pressure-on-the-judiciary-has-begun-pm-modi-184537">Game of building pressure on the judiciary has begun: PM Modi</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi repeated his allegation Sunday that the Congress was putting pressure on the judiciary. "In such a situation," he said, "it's essential to alert the nation and young generation."&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/hope-no-one-will-question-me-about-my-final-losses-anymore-sindhu-184512">Hope no one will now question my ability to win big titles: Sindhu after maiden WTF title</a>

After losing seven successive summit clashes, Olympic silver medallist Sindhu finally settled her finals blues with a 21-19 21-17 win over Japan's Nozomi Okuhara to lift the prestigious season-ending trophy.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/britain-not-planning-second-referendum-on-brexit-minister-184494">Britain not planning the second referendum on Brexit: Minister</a>

British Education Minister Damian Hinds said on Sunday the government was not planning for a second referendum, denying reports that ministers were looking at such a vote to break the deadlock over Brexit.

He described Prime Minister Theresa May's deal to the leave the European Union as a "balanced" agreement that lawmakers should support.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/transgenders-on-way-to-sabarimala-sent-back-by-police-184510">Now, transgenders en route to Sabarimala sent back by police</a>

The transgenders alleged that the police harassed them and said they were not banned from darshan at the shrine, but the police said there was a need to get some legal clarity in this issue.

 
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UN chief Guterres calls for 'credible' probe into Khashoggi murder The UN chief said he had no information on the case except what had been reported in the media.

UN chief Guterres calls for 'credible' probe into Khashoggi murder The UN chief said he had no information on the case except what had been reported in the media. "It is absolutely essential to have a credible investigation and to have the punishment of those that were guilty," Guterres said at a conference in Doha. Game of building pressure on the judiciary has begun: PM Modi Prime Minister Narendra Modi repeated his allegation Sunday that the Congress was putting pressure on the judiciary. "In such a situation," he said, "it's essential to alert the nation and young generation." Hope no one will now question my ability to win big titles: Sindhu after maiden WTF title After losing seven successive summit clashes, Olympic silver medallist Sindhu finally settled her finals blues with a 21-19 21-17 win over Japan's Nozomi Okuhara to lift the prestigious season-ending trophy. Britain not planning the second referendum on Brexit: Minister British Education Minister Damian Hinds said on Sunday the government was not planning for a second referendum, denying reports that ministers were looking at such a vote to break the deadlock over Brexit. He described Prime Minister Theresa May's deal to the leave the European Union as a "balanced" agreement that lawmakers should support. Now, transgenders en route to Sabarimala sent back by police The transgenders alleged that the police harassed them and said they were not banned from darshan at the shrine, but the police said there was a need to get some legal clarity in this issue.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Britain's main opposition Labour Party will do all it can to force the government to bring a vote on Prime Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/theresa-may-survives-confidence-vote-but-her-brexit-deal-is-still-in-deep-trouble-183608">Theresa May</a>'s <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/as-brexit-muddles-along-trump-roots-for-a-full-break-184425">Brexit</a> deal to parliament next week, its election coordinator Andrew Gwynne said on Sunday.

Gwynne, who is Labour’s policy chief for communities and local government, told the BBC's Andrew Marr show: "We will be using whatever mechanisms we have at our disposal next week to try and force the government to bring forward that deal for a vote before Christmas."

He did not offer any detail how Labour would try to force the government to bring the vote forward.

Britain's main opposition Labour Party will do all it can to force the government to bring a vote on Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit deal to parliament next week, its election coordinator Andrew Gwynne said on Sunday.

Britain's main opposition Labour Party will do all it can to force the government to bring a vote on Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit deal to parliament next week, its election coordinator Andrew Gwynne said on Sunday. Gwynne, who is Labour’s policy chief for communities and local government, told the BBC's Andrew Marr show: "We will be using whatever mechanisms we have at our disposal next week to try and force the government to bring forward that deal for a vote before Christmas." He did not offer any detail how Labour would try to force the government to bring the vote forward.

Britain's Labour will try to force parliament Brexit vote next week

British Education Minister Damian Hinds said on Sunday the government was not planning for a second referendum, denying reports that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/brexit-is-it-possible-to-stop-it-182138">ministers were looking at such a vote to break the deadlock over Brexit</a>.

Asked if the government was preparing for a vote, Hinds told Sky News: "No, a second referendum would be divisive. We've had the people's vote, we've had the referendum and now we've got to get on with implementing it."

He described Prime Minister Theresa May's deal to the leave the European Union as a "balanced" agreement that lawmakers should support.

British Education Minister Damian Hinds said on Sunday the government was not planning for a second referendum, denying reports that ministers were looking at such a vote to break the deadlock over Brexit.

British Education Minister Damian Hinds said on Sunday the government was not planning for a second referendum, denying reports that ministers were looking at such a vote to break the deadlock over Brexit. Asked if the government was preparing for a vote, Hinds told Sky News: "No, a second referendum would be divisive. We've had the people's vote, we've had the referendum and now we've got to get on with implementing it." He described Prime Minister Theresa May's deal to the leave the European Union as a "balanced" agreement that lawmakers should support.

Britain not planning second referendum on Brexit: Minister

Britain's exit from the European Union was heading for an impasse, one senior minister said on Saturday, after a week in which Prime Minister Theresa May failed to win EU assurances on her deal and pulled a vote because UK lawmakers would defeat it.

With just over 100 days until Britain leaves the bloc on March 29, Brexit remains up in the air with growing calls for a no-deal exit, a potentially disorderly divorce that business fears would be highly damaging, or for a second referendum.

May pulled a vote on her deal on Monday after acknowledging it would be heavily defeated over concerns about the "backstop", an insurance policy designed to avoid any hard land border for Ireland but which critics say could bind Britain to EU rules indefinitely.

Two days later, she survived a plot to oust her from her those in her own party who support a hardline Brexit, showing the level of opposition she faced.

May herself has acknowledged that Britain's parliament appears deadlocked with no clear support for any option, with the small Northern Irish party that props up her government leading the criticism of her deal.

"Brexit is in danger of getting stuck – and that is something that should worry us all," pensions minister Amber Rudd wrote in Saturday's Daily Mail newspaper.

"If MPs (lawmakers) dig in against the prime minister’s deal and then hunker down in their different corners, none with a majority, the country will face serious trouble."

At a summit in Brussels, May's attempts to get legal assurances from the EU that the Irish backstop would only be a temporary measure was rebuffed with the bloc's other 27 leaders saying they would not renegotiate the treaty.

However, May insisted at the summit's conclusion on Friday that further clarification was still possible with German Chancellor Angela Merkel saying: "We want to be helpful".

Britain's Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said parliament could still rally behind May's agreement with additional assurances and said such clarifications were likely because EU countries knew no deal would be a disaster for them.

"When the dust has settled, the only way we're going to get this through the House of Commons ... is to have a version of the deal that the government has negotiated," Hunt told BBC radio. "I don't think the EU could be remotely sure that if we don't find a way through this we wouldn't end up with no deal."

Ministers divided

However, the Times newspaper reported on Saturday that most of May's ministers thought her deal was dead and were divided over the way forward.

Some were reluctantly leaning towards a second referendum, others favoured a closer, Norway-style relationship and a number, including Hunt, were willing to leave with no deal, the paper said.

One senior minister told Reuters on Friday that the risk of a "managed" no-deal Brexit was rising as was the likelihood of a second vote on EU membership.

"We are not ready for no deal, the public is not ready for no deal," said the minister, who spoke on condition of anonymity. "There is no plan B, at least, not that will get the support of the House (of Commons)."

Rudd said a no-deal scenario "mustn't be allowed to happen" and urged lawmakers from all parties come together to stop it.

"We need to try something different. Something that people do in the real world all the time, but which seems so alien in our political culture – to engage with others," she said.

"We need to acknowledge the risk that parliament could spend the next precious few months debating about preferred solutions and end up with no compromise, no agreement and no deal."

Former Prime Minister Tony Blair, a leading pro-EU advocate, said on Friday a second Brexit referendum was now the most likely outcome to break the stalemate, a view shared by ardent Brexit campaigner Nigel Farage, former leader of the UK Independence Party (UKIP).

"We're actually becoming more divided on this subject than perhaps we were two-and-a-half years ago and that's why I think a second referendum gets closer," Farage told BBC TV. "I hate the thought of it, but I tell you what, I'm going to spend every minute getting ready for it."

Britain's exit from the European Union was heading for an impasse, one senior minister said on Saturday, after a week in which Prime Minister Theresa May failed to win EU assurances on her deal and pulled a vote because UK lawmakers would defeat it.

Britain's exit from the European Union was heading for an impasse, one senior minister said on Saturday, after a week in which Prime Minister Theresa May failed to win EU assurances on her deal and pulled a vote because UK lawmakers would defeat it. With just over 100 days until Britain leaves the bloc on March 29, Brexit remains up in the air with growing calls for a no-deal exit, a potentially disorderly divorce that business fears would be highly damaging, or for a second referendum. May pulled a vote on her deal on Monday after acknowledging it would be heavily defeated over concerns about the "backstop", an insurance policy designed to avoid any hard land border for Ireland but which critics say could bind Britain to EU rules indefinitely. Two days later, she survived a plot to oust her from her those in her own party who support a hardline Brexit, showing the level of opposition she faced. May herself has acknowledged that Britain's parliament appears deadlocked with no clear support for any option, with the small Northern Irish party that props up her government leading the criticism of her deal. "Brexit is in danger of getting stuck – and that is something that should worry us all," pensions minister Amber Rudd wrote in Saturday's Daily Mail newspaper. "If MPs (lawmakers) dig in against the prime minister’s deal and then hunker down in their different corners, none with a majority, the country will face serious trouble." At a summit in Brussels, May's attempts to get legal assurances from the EU that the Irish backstop would only be a temporary measure was rebuffed with the bloc's other 27 leaders saying they would not renegotiate the treaty. However, May insisted at the summit's conclusion on Friday that further clarification was still possible with German Chancellor Angela Merkel saying: "We want to be helpful". Britain's Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said parliament could still rally behind May's agreement with additional assurances and said such clarifications were likely because EU countries knew no deal would be a disaster for them. "When the dust has settled, the only way we're going to get this through the House of Commons ... is to have a version of the deal that the government has negotiated," Hunt told BBC radio. "I don't think the EU could be remotely sure that if we don't find a way through this we wouldn't end up with no deal." Ministers divided However, the Times newspaper reported on Saturday that most of May's ministers thought her deal was dead and were divided over the way forward. Some were reluctantly leaning towards a second referendum, others favoured a closer, Norway-style relationship and a number, including Hunt, were willing to leave with no deal, the paper said. One senior minister told Reuters on Friday that the risk of a "managed" no-deal Brexit was rising as was the likelihood of a second vote on EU membership. "We are not ready for no deal, the public is not ready for no deal," said the minister, who spoke on condition of anonymity. "There is no plan B, at least, not that will get the support of the House (of Commons)." Rudd said a no-deal scenario "mustn't be allowed to happen" and urged lawmakers from all parties come together to stop it. "We need to try something different. Something that people do in the real world all the time, but which seems so alien in our political culture – to engage with others," she said. "We need to acknowledge the risk that parliament could spend the next precious few months debating about preferred solutions and end up with no compromise, no agreement and no deal." Former Prime Minister Tony Blair, a leading pro-EU advocate, said on Friday a second Brexit referendum was now the most likely outcome to break the stalemate, a view shared by ardent Brexit campaigner Nigel Farage, former leader of the UK Independence Party (UKIP). "We're actually becoming more divided on this subject than perhaps we were two-and-a-half years ago and that's why I think a second referendum gets closer," Farage told BBC TV. "I hate the thought of it, but I tell you what, I'm going to spend every minute getting ready for it."

British minister warns Brexit is stuck as no-deal or referendum loom

Foreign Secretary c said on Saturday that the British parliament could back Prime Minister Theresa May's deal if lawmakers received assurances from the European Union, but warned that a no deal Brexit was still on the table.

May pulled a vote on her deal this week after acknowledging it would be heavily defeated over concerns about the divorce agreement's "backstop", an insurance policy designed to avoid any hard land border for Ireland but which critics say could bind Britain to EU rules indefinitely.

"When the dust has settled, the only way we're going to get this through the House of Commons ... is to have a version of the deal that the government has negotiated," Hunt told BBC radio.

Following a summit in Brussels on Friday, May said it was possible that the EU could give further guarantees that the backstop would be temporary although the bloc's other 27 leaders told her they would not renegotiate the treaty.

Hunt said the EU was likely to make concessions to avoid Britain leaving without any deal, a scenario that both sides say would be highly damaging for business and their economies.

"The EU cannot be sure that if they choose not to be helpful and flexible ... that we would not end up with no deal," Hunt said. "We cannot in these negotiations take no deal off the table. I don't think the EU could be remotely sure that if we don't find a way through this we wouldn't end up with no deal."

The Times newspaper reported on Saturday that most of May's senior ministerial team thought her deal was dead and were discussing a range of options including a second referendum.

"Brexit is in danger of getting stuck – and that is something that should worry us all," pensions minister Amber Rudd wrote in the Daily Mail newspaper.

"If MPs (lawmakers) dig in against the Prime Minister’s deal and then hunker down in their different corners, none with a majority, the country will face serious trouble."

Foreign Secretary c said on Saturday that the British parliament could back Prime Minister Theresa May's deal if lawmakers received assurances from the European Union, but warned that a no deal Brexit was still on the table.

Foreign Secretary c said on Saturday that the British parliament could back Prime Minister Theresa May's deal if lawmakers received assurances from the European Union, but warned that a no deal Brexit was still on the table. May pulled a vote on her deal this week after acknowledging it would be heavily defeated over concerns about the divorce agreement's "backstop", an insurance policy designed to avoid any hard land border for Ireland but which critics say could bind Britain to EU rules indefinitely. "When the dust has settled, the only way we're going to get this through the House of Commons ... is to have a version of the deal that the government has negotiated," Hunt told BBC radio. Following a summit in Brussels on Friday, May said it was possible that the EU could give further guarantees that the backstop would be temporary although the bloc's other 27 leaders told her they would not renegotiate the treaty. Hunt said the EU was likely to make concessions to avoid Britain leaving without any deal, a scenario that both sides say would be highly damaging for business and their economies. "The EU cannot be sure that if they choose not to be helpful and flexible ... that we would not end up with no deal," Hunt said. "We cannot in these negotiations take no deal off the table. I don't think the EU could be remotely sure that if we don't find a way through this we wouldn't end up with no deal." The Times newspaper reported on Saturday that most of May's senior ministerial team thought her deal was dead and were discussing a range of options including a second referendum. "Brexit is in danger of getting stuck – and that is something that should worry us all," pensions minister Amber Rudd wrote in the Daily Mail newspaper. "If MPs (lawmakers) dig in against the Prime Minister’s deal and then hunker down in their different corners, none with a majority, the country will face serious trouble."

Britain's Hunt says version of PM May's deal can get through parliament

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/britains-exit-agreement-will-not-be-changed-german-chancellor-angela-merkel-183534">German Chancellor Angela&nbsp;Merkel</a>&nbsp;said on Thursday the European Union is working for an orderly&nbsp;Brexit, but&nbsp;must&nbsp;also&nbsp;prepare&nbsp;for a no-deal&nbsp;scenario if the British parliament rejected the&nbsp;agreement&nbsp;presented by <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/theresa-may-survives-confidence-vote-but-her-brexit-deal-is-still-in-deep-trouble-183608">Prime Minister Theresa May</a>.

May was met largely by readiness to help from European Union leaders but also by a warning: we will not reopen the divorce&nbsp;agreement&nbsp;struck last month, with&nbsp;Merkel&nbsp;saying the&nbsp;deal could not 'be opened again and renegotiated.'

May launched her pitch over dinner to leaders who have said that some kind of declaratory text aimed at easing British concerns could be delivered on Thursday, with possibly more to come next month before May puts her package to lawmakers.

Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz said the EU leaders made clear that the so-called backstop for Northern Ireland will not be a permanent one.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said on Thursday the European Union is working for an orderly Brexit, but must also prepare for a no-deal scenario if the British parliament rejected the agreement presented by Prime Minister Theresa May.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said on Thursday the European Union is working for an orderly Brexit, but must also prepare for a no-deal scenario if the British parliament rejected the agreement presented by Prime Minister Theresa May. May was met largely by readiness to help from European Union leaders but also by a warning: we will not reopen the divorce agreement struck last month, with Merkel saying the deal could not 'be opened again and renegotiated.' May launched her pitch over dinner to leaders who have said that some kind of declaratory text aimed at easing British concerns could be delivered on Thursday, with possibly more to come next month before May puts her package to lawmakers. Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz said the EU leaders made clear that the so-called backstop for Northern Ireland will not be a permanent one.

Wishes for agreement, but must prepare for Brexit with no deal: Merkel

European Council President Donald Tusk said on Friday (December 14) he had no mandate to reopen Brexit negotiations with Britain, while the head of the bloc's executive, Jean-Claude Juncker, said the EU stood ready to start discussions on the future relationship as soon as the text is ratified.

Tusk and Juncker were speaking at a news conference after two days of talks at an EU summit that were dominated by the issue of Brexit and saw the other 27 national leaders of the bloc offer British prime Minister Theresa May only vague assurances over their tentative Brexit deal.

May, who on Wednesday survived a plot in her party to oust her, rejected EU criticism of "nebulous" demands from a divided British political system and asked EU leaders for political and legal assurances to help her win parliament around to her deal.

Commenting on British media reports describing the EU leaders' response to May's plea as a 'humiliation,' Tusk said EU leaders treated the prime minister with 'a much greater empathy and respect than some British MPs ,' while Juncker said they had 'the highest respect' for her.

European Union leaders on Friday also called for urgent action to combat fake news on the Internet, saying more needed to be done to safeguard next year's EU election against disinformation. Juncker said he had warned EU leaders around the table that some of them were spreading fake news themselves, naming Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban as one of them.

European Council President Donald Tusk said on Friday (December 14) he had no mandate to reopen Brexit negotiations with Britain, while the head of the bloc's executive, Jean-Claude Juncker, said the EU stood ready to start discussions on the future relationship as soon as the text is ratified.

European Council President Donald Tusk said on Friday (December 14) he had no mandate to reopen Brexit negotiations with Britain, while the head of the bloc's executive, Jean-Claude Juncker, said the EU stood ready to start discussions on the future relationship as soon as the text is ratified. Tusk and Juncker were speaking at a news conference after two days of talks at an EU summit that were dominated by the issue of Brexit and saw the other 27 national leaders of the bloc offer British prime Minister Theresa May only vague assurances over their tentative Brexit deal. May, who on Wednesday survived a plot in her party to oust her, rejected EU criticism of "nebulous" demands from a divided British political system and asked EU leaders for political and legal assurances to help her win parliament around to her deal. Commenting on British media reports describing the EU leaders' response to May's plea as a 'humiliation,' Tusk said EU leaders treated the prime minister with 'a much greater empathy and respect than some British MPs ,' while Juncker said they had 'the highest respect' for her. European Union leaders on Friday also called for urgent action to combat fake news on the Internet, saying more needed to be done to safeguard next year's EU election against disinformation. Juncker said he had warned EU leaders around the table that some of them were spreading fake news themselves, naming Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban as one of them.

EU's Tusk said no more Brexit negotiations

British Prime Minister Theresa May on Friday denied reports that&nbsp;bloc leaders refused her plea for reassurances on her&nbsp;Brexit plan and added that Britain and the European Union&nbsp;would hold more talks on Brexit in the coming days.

May said,&nbsp;"I note there has been reporting that the EU is not willing to consider any further clarification. The EU is clear -- as I am -- that if we are going to leave with a deal this is it".

"My discussions with colleagues today have shown that future clarification and discussion... is, in fact, possible. We will be holding talks in coming days".

May's&nbsp;confirmation has come after reports on Friday stated that EU leaders rebuffed her pleas for help to sell her Brexit plan back home. The reports also said that the&nbsp;leaders also warned of the growing threat of a "no deal."

She welcomed a statement issued by the other 27 EU leaders restating their position on arrangements for the Irish border, which has caused MPs in Britain to threaten to reject the deal.

"There is work still to do and we will be holding talks in coming days about how to obtain the further assurances that the UK parliament needs in order to be able to approve the deal."

The British prime minister came to a Brussels summit a day after seeing off a challenge to her leadership by her own Conservative MPs.

May on Wednesday survived a confidence vote by her own MPs. She, however,&nbsp;lost the support of one-third of her colleagues, signalling the battle she still faces to get her Brexit deal through parliament.

She won the backing of 200 Conservative lawmakers, 117 voted to oust her.

(With inputs from agencies)

 
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British Prime Minister Theresa May on Friday denied reports that bloc leaders refused her plea for reassurances on her Brexit plan and added that Britain and the European Union would hold more talks on Brexit in the coming days.

British Prime Minister Theresa May on Friday denied reports that bloc leaders refused her plea for reassurances on her Brexit plan and added that Britain and the European Union would hold more talks on Brexit in the coming days. May said, "I note there has been reporting that the EU is not willing to consider any further clarification. The EU is clear -- as I am -- that if we are going to leave with a deal this is it". "My discussions with colleagues today have shown that future clarification and discussion... is, in fact, possible. We will be holding talks in coming days". May's confirmation has come after reports on Friday stated that EU leaders rebuffed her pleas for help to sell her Brexit plan back home. The reports also said that the leaders also warned of the growing threat of a "no deal." She welcomed a statement issued by the other 27 EU leaders restating their position on arrangements for the Irish border, which has caused MPs in Britain to threaten to reject the deal. "There is work still to do and we will be holding talks in coming days about how to obtain the further assurances that the UK parliament needs in order to be able to approve the deal." The British prime minister came to a Brussels summit a day after seeing off a challenge to her leadership by her own Conservative MPs. May on Wednesday survived a confidence vote by her own MPs. She, however, lost the support of one-third of her colleagues, signalling the battle she still faces to get her Brexit deal through parliament. She won the backing of 200 Conservative lawmakers, 117 voted to oust her. (With inputs from agencies)

Theresa May says further Brexit talks with EU in coming days

What happens to the Brexit process now Prime Minister Theresa May has defeated Wednesday's challenge to her leadership?

Her victory means she will continue to helm Britain's exit from the European Union next March, and she will likely continue to press the bloc for concessions to sell her under fire withdrawal deal back home.

But the EU has repeatedly vowed not to budge and with less than four months before the date when Britain is set to leave the European Union, the path forward remains highly uncertain.

Here are some of the most probable scenarios:

Tweaks to the deal

May's 200 to 117 win over her rebel Conservative MPs was closer than expected, but means she cannot face another no-confidence challenge from within her party for 12 months, giving her some breathing space as she attempts to tweak her deal and get it through parliament.

The British leader has said she still plans to bring her Brexit deal to a parliamentary vote some time before January 21, but Wednesday's result shows the daunting task which lies ahead.

May held talks with European counterparts on Tuesday over the so-called "backstop plan" for the Irish border as she attempts to drum up support.

She will meet with European counterparts to discuss Brexit during a two-day summit in Brussels starting Thursday, seeking "political and legal assurances" over the backstop.

Bloc leaders have said only clarifications or tweaks in the accompanying declaration on post-Brexit ties might be possible.

Norway option

If May's Brexit deal is rejected when lawmakers eventually vote on it, MPs are set to take more control over the whole process.

They could push for a "plan B", which would see Britain adopt a softer Brexit, such as staying in the EU's satellite trading bloc the European Economic Area -- the so-called Norway option.

Although being in the single market would require maintaining freedom of movement of EU citizens into Britain -- a contentious issue for pro-Brexit voters -- this approach is considered more likely to command a majority in parliament and potentially pass a vote.

Another potential obstacle, however, is that Britain would have to continue paying large amounts of money into the EU budget, which would prove hugely unpopular.

No-deal Brexit

Britain is due to leave the European Union on March 29, 2019, after triggering Article 50 -- the treaty mechanism used to exit the bloc - two years prior. &nbsp;

May has warned that if MPs vote down her Brexit plan the country risks crashing out on this date with no agreement.

That would sever ties overnight with Britain's closest trading partner, amid fears of grounded flights, medicine shortages and gridlocked ports and motorways.

But many Brexiteers say they favour leaving the bloc in a "managed" no-deal with last-minute agreements struck in key areas.

Second referendum

Calls for a new referendum now attract cross-party support from dozens of MPs.

May has repeatedly ruled out a second public vote, but could face pressure to call one if Britain slips into political paralysis.

Supporters of a second referendum received a boost from the European Court of Justice on Monday, which ruled that Britain has the unilateral right to revoke its Brexit decision.

General election

The prime minister could try to break the parliamentary deadlock by calling a general election - but would need the backing of two-thirds of all MPs.

Despite surviving Wednesday's party vote, a simple majority of all lawmakers could topple her government with a vote of no confidence, with some opposition MPs on Monday calling for such a move in parliament.

But a Labour spokesperson said that the party would only submit such a motion "when we judge it most likely to be successful".

Losing a confidence vote tabled by the opposition could lead to the formation of a new government - possibly a coalition of parties with a new leader - if MPs can agree on it within two weeks.

Otherwise, a general election would be called.

What happens to the Brexit process now Prime Minister Theresa May has defeated Wednesday's challenge to her leadership? Her victory means she will continue to helm Britain's exit from the European Union next March, and she will likely continue to press the bloc for concessions to sell her under fire withdrawal deal back home.

What happens to the Brexit process now Prime Minister Theresa May has defeated Wednesday's challenge to her leadership? Her victory means she will continue to helm Britain's exit from the European Union next March, and she will likely continue to press the bloc for concessions to sell her under fire withdrawal deal back home. But the EU has repeatedly vowed not to budge and with less than four months before the date when Britain is set to leave the European Union, the path forward remains highly uncertain. Here are some of the most probable scenarios: Tweaks to the deal May's 200 to 117 win over her rebel Conservative MPs was closer than expected, but means she cannot face another no-confidence challenge from within her party for 12 months, giving her some breathing space as she attempts to tweak her deal and get it through parliament. The British leader has said she still plans to bring her Brexit deal to a parliamentary vote some time before January 21, but Wednesday's result shows the daunting task which lies ahead. May held talks with European counterparts on Tuesday over the so-called "backstop plan" for the Irish border as she attempts to drum up support. She will meet with European counterparts to discuss Brexit during a two-day summit in Brussels starting Thursday, seeking "political and legal assurances" over the backstop. Bloc leaders have said only clarifications or tweaks in the accompanying declaration on post-Brexit ties might be possible. Norway option If May's Brexit deal is rejected when lawmakers eventually vote on it, MPs are set to take more control over the whole process. They could push for a "plan B", which would see Britain adopt a softer Brexit, such as staying in the EU's satellite trading bloc the European Economic Area -- the so-called Norway option. Although being in the single market would require maintaining freedom of movement of EU citizens into Britain -- a contentious issue for pro-Brexit voters -- this approach is considered more likely to command a majority in parliament and potentially pass a vote. Another potential obstacle, however, is that Britain would have to continue paying large amounts of money into the EU budget, which would prove hugely unpopular. No-deal Brexit Britain is due to leave the European Union on March 29, 2019, after triggering Article 50 -- the treaty mechanism used to exit the bloc - two years prior. May has warned that if MPs vote down her Brexit plan the country risks crashing out on this date with no agreement. That would sever ties overnight with Britain's closest trading partner, amid fears of grounded flights, medicine shortages and gridlocked ports and motorways. But many Brexiteers say they favour leaving the bloc in a "managed" no-deal with last-minute agreements struck in key areas. Second referendum Calls for a new referendum now attract cross-party support from dozens of MPs. May has repeatedly ruled out a second public vote, but could face pressure to call one if Britain slips into political paralysis. Supporters of a second referendum received a boost from the European Court of Justice on Monday, which ruled that Britain has the unilateral right to revoke its Brexit decision. General election The prime minister could try to break the parliamentary deadlock by calling a general election - but would need the backing of two-thirds of all MPs. Despite surviving Wednesday's party vote, a simple majority of all lawmakers could topple her government with a vote of no confidence, with some opposition MPs on Monday calling for such a move in parliament. But a Labour spokesperson said that the party would only submit such a motion "when we judge it most likely to be successful". Losing a confidence vote tabled by the opposition could lead to the formation of a new government - possibly a coalition of parties with a new leader - if MPs can agree on it within two weeks. Otherwise, a general election would be called.

What next for Brexit as Theresa May wins leadership battle?

From the shock Brexit vote to Wednesday's unsuccessful challenge against British Prime Minister Theresa May, here are the milestones on Britain's rocky road out of the European Union.

Britons vote to leave

In a referendum on June 23, 2016, Britons choose to end their membership of the EU by 52 percent to 48 percent.

It prompts the resignation the next day of Conservative prime minister David Cameron, who had called the referendum and led the campaign to remain in the EU.

May becomes prime minister

In a race to replace Cameron, Brexit campaigner Boris Johnson withdraws at the last minute and Theresa May, the interior minister who had backed remaining in the bloc, becomes prime minister on July 13.

On January 17, 2017, May gives a speech setting out her Brexit strategy, saying Britain will also leave Europe's single market in order to control immigration.

She warns she would be willing to walk away from negotiations with the EU, saying: "No deal for Britain is better than a bad deal for Britain."

Exit process triggered

On March 13, Britain's parliament gives final approval to a bill empowering May to trigger Article 50 of the EU treaty which lays out the process for leaving the union.

With a letter to EU President Donald Tusk on March 29 formally announcing the intention to leave, the government sets in motion Article 50.

Its two-year timetable for withdrawal puts Britain on course to exit on March 29, 2019.

Lost majority

To capitalise on the perceived weakness of the opposition Labour party and strengthen her hand in Brexit negotiations, May calls a snap election for June 8, 2017.

Her gamble backfires as the Conservatives lose their parliamentary majority. They are forced to strike a deal with Northern Ireland's Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) to govern.

The issue of British guarantees to keep an open border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland after Brexit becomes a key sticking point in negotiations.

First terms agreed

Britain and the EU reach an outline agreement on December 8 on three key areas of the divorce: Britain's financial settlement to the union, citizens' rights and the Irish border.

EU leaders give the go-ahead for the next stage of Brexit talks, including on how Britain will continue to trade with the bloc after the split.

A bill enacting the decision to leave the EU becomes law on June 26, 2018.

Top ministers quit

On July 6, 2018, May wins agreement from her warring cabinet to pursue "a UK-EU free trade area" that would retain a strong alignment with the EU after Brexit.

But two days later David Davis, the eurosceptic Brexit minister, quits saying May is giving "too much away too easily".

Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson resigns on July 9, becoming a leading critic of May's plans.

EU leaders meeting in Salzburg on September 19 and 20 tell May that her Brexit proposals are unacceptable and need to be reworked.

Draft deal agreed

The European Union on November 13 publishes contingency plans for a "no-deal" Brexit.

But a few hours later, May's office says negotiating teams have reached a draft agreement for the divorce.

On November 14, her cabinet backs the agreement.

However the following day four ministers, including new Brexit secretary Dominic Raab, quit in protest.

EU leaders approve the accord on November 25. "This is the only deal possible," says European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker.

Confidence vote

May's deal faces intense criticism in parliament over the "backstop" provision designed to prevent border checks in Ireland.

On December 10, May postpones a House of Commons vote on the deal due the following day, acknowledging she faced a heavy defeat.

She heads off to Europe for further talks, but EU leaders reject any substantive renegotiation.

On December 12, May's Conservative party announces that enough MPs are unhappy with her leadership to trigger a confidence vote.

But the embattled leader survived the challenge, securing the backing of 200 Tory colleagues, while 117 voted against her.

The result meant May is immune from further internal party challenges for a year.

From the shock Brexit vote to Wednesday's unsuccessful challenge against British Prime Minister Theresa May, here are the milestones on Britain's rocky road out of the European Union.

From the shock Brexit vote to Wednesday's unsuccessful challenge against British Prime Minister Theresa May, here are the milestones on Britain's rocky road out of the European Union. Britons vote to leave In a referendum on June 23, 2016, Britons choose to end their membership of the EU by 52 percent to 48 percent. It prompts the resignation the next day of Conservative prime minister David Cameron, who had called the referendum and led the campaign to remain in the EU. May becomes prime minister In a race to replace Cameron, Brexit campaigner Boris Johnson withdraws at the last minute and Theresa May, the interior minister who had backed remaining in the bloc, becomes prime minister on July 13. On January 17, 2017, May gives a speech setting out her Brexit strategy, saying Britain will also leave Europe's single market in order to control immigration. She warns she would be willing to walk away from negotiations with the EU, saying: "No deal for Britain is better than a bad deal for Britain." Exit process triggered On March 13, Britain's parliament gives final approval to a bill empowering May to trigger Article 50 of the EU treaty which lays out the process for leaving the union. With a letter to EU President Donald Tusk on March 29 formally announcing the intention to leave, the government sets in motion Article 50. Its two-year timetable for withdrawal puts Britain on course to exit on March 29, 2019. Lost majority To capitalise on the perceived weakness of the opposition Labour party and strengthen her hand in Brexit negotiations, May calls a snap election for June 8, 2017. Her gamble backfires as the Conservatives lose their parliamentary majority. They are forced to strike a deal with Northern Ireland's Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) to govern. The issue of British guarantees to keep an open border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland after Brexit becomes a key sticking point in negotiations. First terms agreed Britain and the EU reach an outline agreement on December 8 on three key areas of the divorce: Britain's financial settlement to the union, citizens' rights and the Irish border. EU leaders give the go-ahead for the next stage of Brexit talks, including on how Britain will continue to trade with the bloc after the split. A bill enacting the decision to leave the EU becomes law on June 26, 2018. Top ministers quit On July 6, 2018, May wins agreement from her warring cabinet to pursue "a UK-EU free trade area" that would retain a strong alignment with the EU after Brexit. But two days later David Davis, the eurosceptic Brexit minister, quits saying May is giving "too much away too easily". Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson resigns on July 9, becoming a leading critic of May's plans. EU leaders meeting in Salzburg on September 19 and 20 tell May that her Brexit proposals are unacceptable and need to be reworked. Draft deal agreed The European Union on November 13 publishes contingency plans for a "no-deal" Brexit. But a few hours later, May's office says negotiating teams have reached a draft agreement for the divorce. On November 14, her cabinet backs the agreement. However the following day four ministers, including new Brexit secretary Dominic Raab, quit in protest. EU leaders approve the accord on November 25. "This is the only deal possible," says European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker. Confidence vote May's deal faces intense criticism in parliament over the "backstop" provision designed to prevent border checks in Ireland. On December 10, May postpones a House of Commons vote on the deal due the following day, acknowledging she faced a heavy defeat. She heads off to Europe for further talks, but EU leaders reject any substantive renegotiation. On December 12, May's Conservative party announces that enough MPs are unhappy with her leadership to trigger a confidence vote. But the embattled leader survived the challenge, securing the backing of 200 Tory colleagues, while 117 voted against her. The result meant May is immune from further internal party challenges for a year.

Brexit in dates: From Leave shock to no-confidence vote

By seeing off a revolt by her own MPs, British Prime Minister Theresa May has once again proved her ability to survive a political crisis - but in the process acknowledged her time in office is limited.

May responded to a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-theresa-may-wins-vote-of-confidence-with-majority-of-83-183571">no-confidence vote</a> with a passion she reserves for when her back is against the wall, defending her Brexit deal and warning that ousting her could derail the whole process.

She said she had devoted herself "unsparingly" to delivering the 2016 vote to leave the European Union and was "ready to finish the job".

But addressing colleagues ahead of the vote, she also acknowledged the weakness of her position, by telling them she would not fight the next scheduled election in 2022.

It was a rare chink in the armour of a prime minister praised by her supporters as resilient but accused by her critics of ploughing on oblivious to the changing circumstances around her.

And while she won the vote, the numbers against her - 117 out of a total of 317 MPs - will be deeply uncomfortable.

Meanwhile the biggest test awaits. She delayed a House of Commons vote on her Brexit deal this week after finally acknowledging the depth of the opposition against it.

She has promised to secure assurances from EU leaders and return it to MPs by January 21 - but those leaders have repeatedly said they have little more to offer.

'Difficult woman'

May took over after her predecessor David Cameron quit following the shock vote for Brexit in June 2016, winning by default after her rivals fought among themselves or withdrew.

She had campaigned to stay in the EU, but has repeatedly stressed the importance of implementing the verdict, rejecting calls for a rethink by those who believe it was a terrible mistake.

Yet her moves to minimise the economic damage of the break sparked anger among hardline Brexit supporters, who accuse her of undermining the whole project.

Despite the near constant criticism, including from inside her own government, May has kept at it and compares herself to her cricketing hero Geoffrey Boycott, who was a byword for doggedness as a batsman.

The vicar's daughter has also gleefully seized on a putdown by a party elder that she was a "bloody difficult woman".

May eschews gossip and networking, proving herself through hard work, spending six years in the tough job of interior minister before entering Downing Street.

But her reserved nature often makes for stilted relations with world leaders and voters, while her style of repeating phrases and avoiding direct questions earned her the media nickname "Maybot".

Responding to Wednesday's vote, May once again fell back on trusted phrases, saying she was determined to "get on with the job".

'Goody two shoes'

May, 62, described herself in a 2012 interview as a "goody two shoes" whose Protestant faith defined her upbringing.

She knew she wanted to become a politician when she was just 12, and once said the naughtiest thing she had done was running through a field of wheat.

May studied geography at the University of Oxford, where she met her husband Philip, a banker, after reportedly being introduced by future Pakistan premier Benazir Bhutto.

The couple never had children and May devoted herself to a life of public service that saw her become Conservative Party chairwoman in 2002.

She made her first splash by telling Tories at an annual conference to stop being "the nasty party" if they wanted to win.

But as interior minister she drew criticism over a clampdown on illegal migration, which caused a major scandal this year over the attempted deportation of Britons from the Caribbean.

The apparent ease with which May positioned herself to become prime minister after the referendum drew praise for her political skills - but this evaporated the following year.

Faced with an apparently unassailable poll lead, she called a snap election in June 2017 to bolster her position and Brexit plan - only to lose the Conservatives' majority in the Commons.

Since then, May has struggled to contain the various factions of her party, and her Northern Irish allies, the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), on who she relies to govern.

The DUP, like the Brexit hardliners, strongly oppose her deal, meaning that any respite afforded by Wednesday's vote will only be temporary.

By seeing off a revolt by her own MPs, British Prime Minister Theresa May has once again proved her ability to survive a political crisis - but in the process acknowledged her time in office is limited.

By seeing off a revolt by her own MPs, British Prime Minister Theresa May has once again proved her ability to survive a political crisis - but in the process acknowledged her time in office is limited. May responded to a no-confidence vote with a passion she reserves for when her back is against the wall, defending her Brexit deal and warning that ousting her could derail the whole process. She said she had devoted herself "unsparingly" to delivering the 2016 vote to leave the European Union and was "ready to finish the job". But addressing colleagues ahead of the vote, she also acknowledged the weakness of her position, by telling them she would not fight the next scheduled election in 2022. It was a rare chink in the armour of a prime minister praised by her supporters as resilient but accused by her critics of ploughing on oblivious to the changing circumstances around her. And while she won the vote, the numbers against her - 117 out of a total of 317 MPs - will be deeply uncomfortable. Meanwhile the biggest test awaits. She delayed a House of Commons vote on her Brexit deal this week after finally acknowledging the depth of the opposition against it. She has promised to secure assurances from EU leaders and return it to MPs by January 21 - but those leaders have repeatedly said they have little more to offer. 'Difficult woman' May took over after her predecessor David Cameron quit following the shock vote for Brexit in June 2016, winning by default after her rivals fought among themselves or withdrew. She had campaigned to stay in the EU, but has repeatedly stressed the importance of implementing the verdict, rejecting calls for a rethink by those who believe it was a terrible mistake. Yet her moves to minimise the economic damage of the break sparked anger among hardline Brexit supporters, who accuse her of undermining the whole project. Despite the near constant criticism, including from inside her own government, May has kept at it and compares herself to her cricketing hero Geoffrey Boycott, who was a byword for doggedness as a batsman. The vicar's daughter has also gleefully seized on a putdown by a party elder that she was a "bloody difficult woman". May eschews gossip and networking, proving herself through hard work, spending six years in the tough job of interior minister before entering Downing Street. But her reserved nature often makes for stilted relations with world leaders and voters, while her style of repeating phrases and avoiding direct questions earned her the media nickname "Maybot". Responding to Wednesday's vote, May once again fell back on trusted phrases, saying she was determined to "get on with the job". 'Goody two shoes' May, 62, described herself in a 2012 interview as a "goody two shoes" whose Protestant faith defined her upbringing. She knew she wanted to become a politician when she was just 12, and once said the naughtiest thing she had done was running through a field of wheat. May studied geography at the University of Oxford, where she met her husband Philip, a banker, after reportedly being introduced by future Pakistan premier Benazir Bhutto. The couple never had children and May devoted herself to a life of public service that saw her become Conservative Party chairwoman in 2002. She made her first splash by telling Tories at an annual conference to stop being "the nasty party" if they wanted to win. But as interior minister she drew criticism over a clampdown on illegal migration, which caused a major scandal this year over the attempted deportation of Britons from the Caribbean. The apparent ease with which May positioned herself to become prime minister after the referendum drew praise for her political skills - but this evaporated the following year. Faced with an apparently unassailable poll lead, she called a snap election in June 2017 to bolster her position and Brexit plan - only to lose the Conservatives' majority in the Commons. Since then, May has struggled to contain the various factions of her party, and her Northern Irish allies, the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), on who she relies to govern. The DUP, like the Brexit hardliners, strongly oppose her deal, meaning that any respite afforded by Wednesday's vote will only be temporary.

UK's Theresa May survives, weakened and with an exit date

British Prime Minister Theresa May warned she expects no "immediate breakthrough" on her Brexit deal at Thursday's EU summit and confirmed she would step down before the 2022 general election.

"I don't expect an immediate breakthrough but what I do hope is that we can start to work as quickly as possible on the assurances that are necessary," she said on arrival for talks with the 27 other EU leaders to try to find a way to make the controversial deal palatable to the British parliament.

May on Wednesday survived a confidence vote by her own MPs but lost the support of one-third of her colleagues, signalling the battle she still faces to get her Brexit deal through parliament.

Though she won the backing of 200 Conservative lawmakers, 117 voted to oust her.

Theresa May earlier faced series of resignations from her cabinet ministers over the Brexit deal.

(With inputs from agencies)

British Prime Minister Theresa May warned she expects no "immediate breakthrough" on her Brexit deal at Thursday's EU summit and confirmed she would step down before the 2022 general election.

British Prime Minister Theresa May warned she expects no "immediate breakthrough" on her Brexit deal at Thursday's EU summit and confirmed she would step down before the 2022 general election. "I don't expect an immediate breakthrough but what I do hope is that we can start to work as quickly as possible on the assurances that are necessary," she said on arrival for talks with the 27 other EU leaders to try to find a way to make the controversial deal palatable to the British parliament. May on Wednesday survived a confidence vote by her own MPs but lost the support of one-third of her colleagues, signalling the battle she still faces to get her Brexit deal through parliament. Though she won the backing of 200 Conservative lawmakers, 117 voted to oust her. Theresa May earlier faced series of resignations from her cabinet ministers over the Brexit deal. (With inputs from agencies)

Britain's May sees no 'immediate breakthrough' at EU

British Prime Minister Theresa May on Wednesday survived a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-may-to-challenge-leadership-contest-says-ousting-would-delay-brexit-183454">confidence vote</a> by her own MPs but lost the support of one-third of her colleagues, signalling the battle she still faces to get her Brexit deal through parliament.

May won the backing of 200 Conservative lawmakers, but 117 voted to oust her -- and only after she conceded she would step down before the 2022 election.

"I'm pleased to have received the backing of my colleagues in tonight's ballot," she said outside her Downing Street office after the result was announced.

"A significant number of colleagues did cast votes against me and I've listened to what they've said."

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-to-vote-on-brexit-deal-before-january-21-183259">British MPs to vote on Brexit deal 'before January 21'</a>

She said she wanted to "get on with the job of delivering Brexit", and to see "politicians on all sides coming together".

The result, announced after a secret ballot, was met with huge cheers from&nbsp;May's supporters gathered in parliament, while the pound rose on the news.

But leading <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/what-next-for-brexit-as-may-faces-a-leadership-battle-183491">Brexit </a>rebel Jacob Rees-Mogg, one of at least 48 Tory MPs who triggered the vote by writing a letter of no confidence in May, said it was a "terrible result".

"She ought to go and see the queen and resign urgently," he told the BBC.

Brexit figurehead Nigel Farage tweeted that May "limps on to her next failure, the deal won't pass and the real crisis is close".

Rees-Mogg and other eurosceptics hate the divorce deal May agreed with the EU last month, which they fear risks tying Britain to the bloc for years after Brexit on March 29.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/eu-offers-new-brexit-deal-clarity-wont-renegotiate-eu-chief-executive-juncker-says-183230">European Union offers new Brexit deal clarity, won't renegotiate, says EU chief executive Juncker</a>

The confidence vote followed her decision on Monday to postpone a planned vote in the House of Commons on the text, because she feared a crushing defeat.

She has promised to hold that vote by January 21 -- when she may yet still lose, plunging the Brexit process into fresh crisis.

Irish warning

May heads to Brussels on Thursday for a pre-planned EU summit, where she will press fellow leaders to give her something to help sell the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/ireland-to-ramp-up-preparations-for-no-deal-brexit-minister-183246">Brexit deal</a> to sceptical MPs.

Many Conservatives, and the Northern Irish Democratic Unionists (DUP) who prop up the government, fear an arrangement to keep open the Irish border could see Britain trapped in an endless customs union with the EU.

After a whistlestop tour of European capitals on Tuesday, she said on Wednesday she would continue to seek "legal and political assurances" over the temporary nature of the so-called "backstop".

But while EU leaders expressed sympathy for her difficulties, they firmly rejected any attempt to renegotiate a Brexit deal that was only secured last month after 17 months of talks.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said on Wednesday she still "has hope for an orderly exit" but "no intention to change the exit agreement".

Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar had a similar message after a call late Wednesday with European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker.

His office said the pair "agreed to work to provide reassurance to the UK (but) the agreement cannot be reopened or contradicted".

Enough to cling on

MPs and ministers had rallied round May ahead of the vote, and finance minister Philip Hammond said May's victory would unite the party and "flush out the extremists".

But in a private meeting with MPs before they cast their ballots, she acknowledged the weakness of her position by setting a limit on her own leadership, lawmakers said.

"It is not her intention to lead the party in the 2022 general election," Solicitor General Robert Buckland told the BBC afterwards.&nbsp;

May is now immune to further Conservative confidence votes for a year, but if defeated on her Brexit deal, her government could still face a confidence vote in parliament.

Simon Hix, of the London School of Economics, said Wednesday's result was "enough to cling on, but 117 against her means the Commons arithmetic on Brexit is now even tougher".

Labour's Brexit spokesman Keir Starmer said it showed the "Tory civil war... is far from over", adding: "More trouble ahead."

The delays to the Brexit deal have prompted both the EU and Britain to step up preparations for the potentially disastrous scenario where there is no agreement at all.

British Prime Minister Theresa May on Wednesday survived a confidence vote by her own MPs but lost the support of one-third of her colleagues, signalling the battle she still faces to get her Brexit deal through parliament.

British Prime Minister Theresa May on Wednesday survived a confidence vote by her own MPs but lost the support of one-third of her colleagues, signalling the battle she still faces to get her Brexit deal through parliament. May won the backing of 200 Conservative lawmakers, but 117 voted to oust her -- and only after she conceded she would step down before the 2022 election. "I'm pleased to have received the backing of my colleagues in tonight's ballot," she said outside her Downing Street office after the result was announced. "A significant number of colleagues did cast votes against me and I've listened to what they've said." Also read: British MPs to vote on Brexit deal 'before January 21' She said she wanted to "get on with the job of delivering Brexit", and to see "politicians on all sides coming together". The result, announced after a secret ballot, was met with huge cheers from May's supporters gathered in parliament, while the pound rose on the news. But leading Brexit rebel Jacob Rees-Mogg, one of at least 48 Tory MPs who triggered the vote by writing a letter of no confidence in May, said it was a "terrible result". "She ought to go and see the queen and resign urgently," he told the BBC. Brexit figurehead Nigel Farage tweeted that May "limps on to her next failure, the deal won't pass and the real crisis is close". Rees-Mogg and other eurosceptics hate the divorce deal May agreed with the EU last month, which they fear risks tying Britain to the bloc for years after Brexit on March 29. Also read: European Union offers new Brexit deal clarity, won't renegotiate, says EU chief executive Juncker The confidence vote followed her decision on Monday to postpone a planned vote in the House of Commons on the text, because she feared a crushing defeat. She has promised to hold that vote by January 21 -- when she may yet still lose, plunging the Brexit process into fresh crisis. Irish warning May heads to Brussels on Thursday for a pre-planned EU summit, where she will press fellow leaders to give her something to help sell the Brexit deal to sceptical MPs. Many Conservatives, and the Northern Irish Democratic Unionists (DUP) who prop up the government, fear an arrangement to keep open the Irish border could see Britain trapped in an endless customs union with the EU. After a whistlestop tour of European capitals on Tuesday, she said on Wednesday she would continue to seek "legal and political assurances" over the temporary nature of the so-called "backstop". But while EU leaders expressed sympathy for her difficulties, they firmly rejected any attempt to renegotiate a Brexit deal that was only secured last month after 17 months of talks. German Chancellor Angela Merkel said on Wednesday she still "has hope for an orderly exit" but "no intention to change the exit agreement". Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar had a similar message after a call late Wednesday with European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker. His office said the pair "agreed to work to provide reassurance to the UK (but) the agreement cannot be reopened or contradicted". Enough to cling on MPs and ministers had rallied round May ahead of the vote, and finance minister Philip Hammond said May's victory would unite the party and "flush out the extremists". But in a private meeting with MPs before they cast their ballots, she acknowledged the weakness of her position by setting a limit on her own leadership, lawmakers said. "It is not her intention to lead the party in the 2022 general election," Solicitor General Robert Buckland told the BBC afterwards. May is now immune to further Conservative confidence votes for a year, but if defeated on her Brexit deal, her government could still face a confidence vote in parliament. Simon Hix, of the London School of Economics, said Wednesday's result was "enough to cling on, but 117 against her means the Commons arithmetic on Brexit is now even tougher". Labour's Brexit spokesman Keir Starmer said it showed the "Tory civil war... is far from over", adding: "More trouble ahead." The delays to the Brexit deal have prompted both the EU and Britain to step up preparations for the potentially disastrous scenario where there is no agreement at all.

British PM Theresa May survives no-confidence vote in Brexit battle

British lawmakers will vote on <a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/theresa-may-suffers-parliament-defeats-181569">Prime Minister Theresa May</a>'s Brexit deal in January, according to a schedule published Thursday by the leader of the lower house of parliament Andrea Leadsom.

The coming week has been filled by other draft legislation, with parliament then breaking for the holidays until January 7.

May has promised to hold the vote by January 21.

The British leader will brief lawmakers on Monday about her latest visit to Brussels, where she is meeting the other 27 EU leaders in a bid to wrest more concessions on the deal.

EU leaders refuse to renegotiate the actual draft but seem willing to offer May non-binding assurances on the main dispute involving measures to prevent the return of a hard border with Ireland.

May pulled a vote on the draft scheduled for last Tuesday because of its certain defeat.

The decision sparked outrage among MPs across party lines, with her own Conservatives trying to oust her on Wednesday in a no-confidence vote.

May <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-theresa-may-wins-vote-of-confidence-with-majority-of-83-183571">won by a 200-117 margin</a>, underscoring the scale of the resistance from her own ranks to the Brexit draft.

Britain will leave the European Union on March 29 regardless of whether the two sides agree on divorce terms.

British lawmakers will vote on Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit deal in January, according to a schedule published Thursday by the leader of the lower house of parliament Andrea Leadsom.

British lawmakers will vote on Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit deal in January, according to a schedule published Thursday by the leader of the lower house of parliament Andrea Leadsom. The coming week has been filled by other draft legislation, with parliament then breaking for the holidays until January 7. May has promised to hold the vote by January 21. The British leader will brief lawmakers on Monday about her latest visit to Brussels, where she is meeting the other 27 EU leaders in a bid to wrest more concessions on the deal. EU leaders refuse to renegotiate the actual draft but seem willing to offer May non-binding assurances on the main dispute involving measures to prevent the return of a hard border with Ireland. May pulled a vote on the draft scheduled for last Tuesday because of its certain defeat. The decision sparked outrage among MPs across party lines, with her own Conservatives trying to oust her on Wednesday in a no-confidence vote. May won by a 200-117 margin, underscoring the scale of the resistance from her own ranks to the Brexit draft. Britain will leave the European Union on March 29 regardless of whether the two sides agree on divorce terms.

UK lawmakers due to vote on Brexit bill in January

What happens to the Brexit process now, as <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-to-vote-on-brexit-deal-before-january-21-183259">Prime Minister Theresa May</a> fights a challenge to her leadership?

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/may-tours-europe-in-desperate-bid-to-save-brexit-deal-183199">embattled leader toured European capitals on Tuesday</a> in an attempt to seek concessions on her Brexit deal, less than four months before the March 29 date when Britain is set to leave the European Union.

But the EU has vowed not to budge, and she came home to a potential leadership challenge.

She said she will contest Wednesday's challenge and, if victorious, plans to table a vote on her Brexit deal sometime before January 21.

If she loses, the leadership election could take days or even weeks into the New Year and could potentially derail the Brexit timetable.

Here are some of the most probable scenarios:

Tweaks to the deal

Victory for May over her rebel MPs will mean she cannot face another no-confidence challenge from within her party for 12 months, giving her some breathing space as she attempts to tweak her deal and get it through parliament.

May held talks with European counterparts on Tuesday seeking "further assurances" over the so-called "backstop plan" for the Irish border as she attempts to drum up support for her deal.

She will meet with EU leaders to discuss Brexit during a summit in Brussels on Thursday.

European sources privately say only clarifications or tweaks in the accompanying declaration on post-Brexit ties might be possible.

But that could be enough to sway MPs, particularly if the extended uncertainty takes a disastrous toll on the economy and financial markets.

Norway option

If her deal is rejected, MPs are set to take more control over the whole process. They could push for a "plan B", which would see Britain adopt a softer Brexit, such as staying in the EU's satellite trading bloc the European Economic Area -- the so-called Norway option.

Although being in the single market would require maintaining freedom of movement of EU citizens into Britain -- a contentious issue for pro-Brexit voters -- this approach is considered more likely to command a majority in parliament and potentially pass a vote.

Another potential obstacle, however, is that Britain would have to continue paying large amounts of money into the EU budget, which would prove hugely unpopular.

No-deal Brexit

Britain has legislated to leave the European Union on March 29, 2019, after triggering Article 50 -- the treaty mechanism used to exit the bloc -- two years prior. &nbsp;

May has warned that if MPs vote down her plan the country risks crashing out on this date with no agreement.

That would sever ties overnight with Britain's closest trading partner, amid fears of grounded flights, medicine shortages and gridlocked ports and motorways.

If May loses Wednesday's vote, most of the favourites to replace her are pro-Brexit, increasing the chances that Britain would leave without a deal.

Second referendum

Calls for a new referendum now attract cross-party support from dozens of MPs.

May has repeatedly ruled out another vote, but could face pressure to call one if Britain slips into political paralysis. 
Supporters of a second referendum received a boost from the European Court of Justice on Monday, which ruled that Britain has the unilateral right to revoke its Brexit decision.

It could take weeks to elect a new leader if May is deposed, and Justice Secretary David Gauke warned on Wednesday that this could lead to the deadline being extended.

General election

The prime minister could try to break the parliamentary deadlock by calling a general election -- but would need the backing of two-thirds of all MPs.

Even if she survives Wednesday's party vote, a simple majority of all lawmakers could also topple her government with a vote of no confidence, with some opposition MPs on Monday calling for such a move in parliament.

But a Labour spokesperson said that the party would only submit such a motion "when we judge it most likely to be successful".

Losing a confidence vote tabled by the opposition could lead to the formation of a new government -- possibly a coalition of parties with a new leader -- if MPs agreed on it within two weeks.

Otherwise, a general election would be called.

What happens to the Brexit process now, as Prime Minister Theresa May fights a challenge to her leadership? The embattled leader toured European capitals on Tuesday in an attempt to seek concessions on her Brexit deal, less than four months before the March 29 date when Britain is set to leave the European Union.

What happens to the Brexit process now, as Prime Minister Theresa May fights a challenge to her leadership? The embattled leader toured European capitals on Tuesday in an attempt to seek concessions on her Brexit deal, less than four months before the March 29 date when Britain is set to leave the European Union. But the EU has vowed not to budge, and she came home to a potential leadership challenge. She said she will contest Wednesday's challenge and, if victorious, plans to table a vote on her Brexit deal sometime before January 21. If she loses, the leadership election could take days or even weeks into the New Year and could potentially derail the Brexit timetable. Here are some of the most probable scenarios: Tweaks to the deal Victory for May over her rebel MPs will mean she cannot face another no-confidence challenge from within her party for 12 months, giving her some breathing space as she attempts to tweak her deal and get it through parliament. May held talks with European counterparts on Tuesday seeking "further assurances" over the so-called "backstop plan" for the Irish border as she attempts to drum up support for her deal. She will meet with EU leaders to discuss Brexit during a summit in Brussels on Thursday. European sources privately say only clarifications or tweaks in the accompanying declaration on post-Brexit ties might be possible. But that could be enough to sway MPs, particularly if the extended uncertainty takes a disastrous toll on the economy and financial markets. Norway option If her deal is rejected, MPs are set to take more control over the whole process. They could push for a "plan B", which would see Britain adopt a softer Brexit, such as staying in the EU's satellite trading bloc the European Economic Area -- the so-called Norway option. Although being in the single market would require maintaining freedom of movement of EU citizens into Britain -- a contentious issue for pro-Brexit voters -- this approach is considered more likely to command a majority in parliament and potentially pass a vote. Another potential obstacle, however, is that Britain would have to continue paying large amounts of money into the EU budget, which would prove hugely unpopular. No-deal Brexit Britain has legislated to leave the European Union on March 29, 2019, after triggering Article 50 -- the treaty mechanism used to exit the bloc -- two years prior. May has warned that if MPs vote down her plan the country risks crashing out on this date with no agreement. That would sever ties overnight with Britain's closest trading partner, amid fears of grounded flights, medicine shortages and gridlocked ports and motorways. If May loses Wednesday's vote, most of the favourites to replace her are pro-Brexit, increasing the chances that Britain would leave without a deal. Second referendum Calls for a new referendum now attract cross-party support from dozens of MPs. May has repeatedly ruled out another vote, but could face pressure to call one if Britain slips into political paralysis. Supporters of a second referendum received a boost from the European Court of Justice on Monday, which ruled that Britain has the unilateral right to revoke its Brexit decision. It could take weeks to elect a new leader if May is deposed, and Justice Secretary David Gauke warned on Wednesday that this could lead to the deadline being extended. General election The prime minister could try to break the parliamentary deadlock by calling a general election -- but would need the backing of two-thirds of all MPs. Even if she survives Wednesday's party vote, a simple majority of all lawmakers could also topple her government with a vote of no confidence, with some opposition MPs on Monday calling for such a move in parliament. But a Labour spokesperson said that the party would only submit such a motion "when we judge it most likely to be successful". Losing a confidence vote tabled by the opposition could lead to the formation of a new government -- possibly a coalition of parties with a new leader -- if MPs agreed on it within two weeks. Otherwise, a general election would be called.

What next for Brexit as May faces leadership battle?

WION Gravitas: UK PM Theresa May fights leadership revolts

WION Fineprint: Uncertainty over Brexit; PM Theresa May faces no-confidence motion

Brexit vote delay backfires; British MPs submit no confidence letters

The British prime minister said on Wednesday that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-row-britains-conservative-party-lawmakers-trigger-no-confidence-vote-against-pm-theresa-may-183427">she would fight a motion of no confidence</a> lodged by a right-wing faction of her own Conservative Party and warned that a change in leadership now would only serve to delay the United Kingdom's withdrawal from the European Union.

Theresa May, the increasingly embattled leader of the minority Tory government, told reporters outside 10 Downing Street that the timing of the bid could imperil the UK's future.

"A change of leadership in the Conservative Party now would put our country's future at risk and create uncertainty when we can least afford it," May said in a hastily scheduled speech outside her official residence.

She said the vote risked handing Brexit decision making to members of the Labour Party opposition, led by Jeremy Corbyn.

"The new leader would not have the time to renegotiate the withdrawal agreement and get the legislation through parliament by March 29," she added, referring to the date the UK is officially scheduled to leave the bloc.

"So one of their first acts would have to be extending or rescinding Article 50, delaying or even stopping Brexit when people want us to get on with it," she added.

An affiliation of conservative lawmakers known as the European Research Group, which has lobbied for a harder Brexit, mounted the leadership challenge after securing the necessary 48 signatures.

May will need the backing of at least 158 conservative Members of Parliament to see off the challenge.

The Tory leader used a speech to underscore her long-term commitment to the party, in which time she has also served as home secretary under David Cameron, the former PM who called the Brexit referendum held in June 2016.

May took the reins of the party when Cameron, who campaigned to remain in the EU (as did May), resigned after UK voters narrowly opted to withdraw from the bloc.

The Tory party, whose parliamentary minority is propped up by a regional Northern Irish party, the hardline DUP, has hit choppy waters as the Brexit date nears.

Last week, the opposition Labour Party successfully passed a motion of contempt of Parliament against the government, forcing the executive to publish legal advice on May's withdrawal plan that it had retained on the claim it would jeopardize the country's negotiating position.

Then, on Monday, May delayed a crucial parliamentary vote on her withdrawal deal as it faced almost certain defeat in the House of Commons, the lower chamber of UK lawmaking.

She embarked on a whistle-stop tour of European leaders to seek clarification on the Irish backstop, a stipulation in the deal that seeks to maintain a soft border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland in the event of a no deal Brexit.

The PM's last-minute meetings sought to reassure those in her party skeptical about the backstop due to the UK's apparent inability to withdraw from it unilaterally should it ever come into force.

The leadership vote is now expected to take place late on Wednesday.

The British prime minister said on Wednesday that she would fight a motion of no confidence lodged by a right-wing faction of her own Conservative Party and warned that a change in leadership now would only serve to delay the United Kingdom's withdrawal from the European Union.

The British prime minister said on Wednesday that she would fight a motion of no confidence lodged by a right-wing faction of her own Conservative Party and warned that a change in leadership now would only serve to delay the United Kingdom's withdrawal from the European Union. Theresa May, the increasingly embattled leader of the minority Tory government, told reporters outside 10 Downing Street that the timing of the bid could imperil the UK's future. "A change of leadership in the Conservative Party now would put our country's future at risk and create uncertainty when we can least afford it," May said in a hastily scheduled speech outside her official residence. She said the vote risked handing Brexit decision making to members of the Labour Party opposition, led by Jeremy Corbyn. "The new leader would not have the time to renegotiate the withdrawal agreement and get the legislation through parliament by March 29," she added, referring to the date the UK is officially scheduled to leave the bloc. "So one of their first acts would have to be extending or rescinding Article 50, delaying or even stopping Brexit when people want us to get on with it," she added. An affiliation of conservative lawmakers known as the European Research Group, which has lobbied for a harder Brexit, mounted the leadership challenge after securing the necessary 48 signatures. May will need the backing of at least 158 conservative Members of Parliament to see off the challenge. The Tory leader used a speech to underscore her long-term commitment to the party, in which time she has also served as home secretary under David Cameron, the former PM who called the Brexit referendum held in June 2016. May took the reins of the party when Cameron, who campaigned to remain in the EU (as did May), resigned after UK voters narrowly opted to withdraw from the bloc. The Tory party, whose parliamentary minority is propped up by a regional Northern Irish party, the hardline DUP, has hit choppy waters as the Brexit date nears. Last week, the opposition Labour Party successfully passed a motion of contempt of Parliament against the government, forcing the executive to publish legal advice on May's withdrawal plan that it had retained on the claim it would jeopardize the country's negotiating position. Then, on Monday, May delayed a crucial parliamentary vote on her withdrawal deal as it faced almost certain defeat in the House of Commons, the lower chamber of UK lawmaking. She embarked on a whistle-stop tour of European leaders to seek clarification on the Irish backstop, a stipulation in the deal that seeks to maintain a soft border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland in the event of a no deal Brexit. The PM's last-minute meetings sought to reassure those in her party skeptical about the backstop due to the UK's apparent inability to withdraw from it unilaterally should it ever come into force. The leadership vote is now expected to take place late on Wednesday.

UK PM May says will fight no-confidence motion, her ouster will delay Brexit

Just days after British PM Theresa May postponed <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/ireland-to-ramp-up-preparations-for-no-deal-brexit-minister-183246">voting on Brexit in Parliament</a>, Graham Brady, chairman of Britain's Conservative party's 1922 backbench committee said today that threshold of 48 letters were received by him from party members triggering a no-confidence vote against the prime minister.

PM May was due to hold the vote on Tuesday in Parliament on Brexit, but on Monday she announced that she had deferred it in order to seek extra reassurances from the European Union to make sure it goes through the British parliament.

The no-confidence vote is due to take place between 6pm or 8pm tonight.

European Union(EU) had said it won't renegotiate the terms of the Brexit deal. PM Thresa May is chasing a Brexit deal of March 29th next year to ensure the UK pulls out of the European on time.

The European Court of Justice had ruled earlier that Britain has the unilateral right to withdraw its plan to leave the European Union if it decides before Brexit day at the end of March.

Theresa May had warned earlier that Parliament's rejection of her Brexit deal could leave Britain in the European Union and bring the opposition Labour Party to power.

May had said Britain "would truly be in uncharted waters" if the Brexit deal did not go through in Parliament. May had rejected the idea of putting the brakes on Brexit and had ruled out a revote.

Britain had voted 52 per cent in favour of leaving the European Union in June, 2016 which is the world's largest single market.

Just days after British PM Theresa May postponed voting on Brexit in Parliament, Graham Brady, chairman of Britain's Conservative party's 1922 backbench committee said today that threshold of 48 letters were received by him from party members triggering a no-confidence vote against the prime minister.

Just days after British PM Theresa May postponed voting on Brexit in Parliament, Graham Brady, chairman of Britain's Conservative party's 1922 backbench committee said today that threshold of 48 letters were received by him from party members triggering a no-confidence vote against the prime minister. PM May was due to hold the vote on Tuesday in Parliament on Brexit, but on Monday she announced that she had deferred it in order to seek extra reassurances from the European Union to make sure it goes through the British parliament. The no-confidence vote is due to take place between 6pm or 8pm tonight. European Union(EU) had said it won't renegotiate the terms of the Brexit deal. PM Thresa May is chasing a Brexit deal of March 29th next year to ensure the UK pulls out of the European on time. The European Court of Justice had ruled earlier that Britain has the unilateral right to withdraw its plan to leave the European Union if it decides before Brexit day at the end of March. Theresa May had warned earlier that Parliament's rejection of her Brexit deal could leave Britain in the European Union and bring the opposition Labour Party to power. May had said Britain "would truly be in uncharted waters" if the Brexit deal did not go through in Parliament. May had rejected the idea of putting the brakes on Brexit and had ruled out a revote. Britain had voted 52 per cent in favour of leaving the European Union in June, 2016 which is the world's largest single market.

Brexit row: Britain's Conservative party lawmakers trigger no-confidence vote against PM Theresa May

Lawmakers in Prime Minister Theresa May's Conservative Party triggered a vote of no confidence in her leadership on Wednesday as <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-to-vote-on-brexit-deal-before-january-21-183259">Britain's planned divorce</a> from the European Union was plunged into chaos.

Graham Brady, chairman of the party's so-called 1922 committee, said the threshold for a vote had been exceeded.

A ballot will be held between 1800 and 2000 on Wednesday in the House of Commons and an announcement made as soon as possible afterwards, he said.

Lawmakers in Prime Minister Theresa May's Conservative Party triggered a vote of no confidence in her leadership on Wednesday as Britain's planned divorce from the European Union was plunged into chaos.

Lawmakers in Prime Minister Theresa May's Conservative Party triggered a vote of no confidence in her leadership on Wednesday as Britain's planned divorce from the European Union was plunged into chaos. Graham Brady, chairman of the party's so-called 1922 committee, said the threshold for a vote had been exceeded. A ballot will be held between 1800 and 2000 on Wednesday in the House of Commons and an announcement made as soon as possible afterwards, he said.

Conservative lawmakers trigger no confidence vote in UK PM Theresa May's leadership

By Andy Price

Finally, after two tortuous years of negotiations, it looked like the UK’s elected representatives were about to vote on Prime Minister Theresa May’s Brexit deal. Then, despite vowing to go ahead, May decided to postpone the vote the day before. She had faced almost certain defeat and now says she will speak to EU leaders to find a new way forward.

Technically and legally May was within her rights to back out of the vote. However, the political optics are another thing altogether. This is a government, remember, found in contempt of Parliament for withholding information from MPs. Pulling such an important vote out of self-interest does not look good. Doing so a day before the vote is not politic, as Speaker John Bercow pointed out after her statement. Just how much of the normal running order of UK politics is the prime minister ready to jettison?

It seems that May now intends to go back to Brussels and seek concessions around the Irish backstop – a sticking point that riled Brexiteers and Remainers MPs alike – in order to make the vote winnable at a later date. But the question here must be: what concessions? Is she going to ask that the UK as whole to stay in the customs union and maybe even the single market, which is the only real way the Irish border (and the backstop) problem disappears?

Not a chance: this would anger the Brexiteers in her party even more (if that is possible). Rather, the concession she is after is to somehow make the backstop more palatable to the people she has been appealing to from the beginning: the hard Brexiteers. That might be something like agreeing that the backstop becomes a temporary arrangement, somehow.

Corbyn’s alternative?

How will opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn react to this delay? Is he going to try and stick to the line that he wants a general election, promising that if – and it is a big “if” – he won that election he would go back and renegotiate with the EU?

If so, then his fate looks as bleak as May’s. What is it that he imagines he can offer that will provide enough fuel to power the EU27 to reopen the negotiations they have just taken so long to close? And remember, they are not just reopening negotiations with the UK, but among themselves too: they have to reach a unified position before they can agree a position with the UK. The idea that they will be able to reopen talks and get negotiations finished before the end of March is quite frankly ludicrous.

Apart, maybe, from one scenario: that a Labour government would offer to stay in the customs union, in the single market, accept freedom of movement and the jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice. That may be motivation enough for the EU – but it is essentially staying in the EU in anything else but name (and decision-making power).

Parliamentary power 
 
Whatever happens next, one thing is clear: the heads of the UK’s two main parties are no closer to solving this problem from their positions of leadership. It is to other MPs, then, that voters should turn. Only the House of Commons, acting as a collective body, can steer the nation through this political mess.

We should remember that despite all the cries of betrayal from the Brexiteers, this House of Commons as a collective entity was constituted by the people in a vote that superseded the referendum: the snap election of 2017. The MPs that sit in this parliament are the representatives the people chose to enact Brexit in 2017.

And key here is that this house of Commons is hung – there is no outright majority. A clearer display of where the country is at you could not find. As a reflection of that very vote, this house has found it very difficult to agree on anything as the negotiations on Brexit have progressed.

This, then, is the state of the House of Commons as we head into Christmas. And the reality is, everything the government and the opposition have tried so far in terms of Brexit has so far failed. MPs need to find a way to coalesce around a different way forward. There needs to be a proposal, plan or motion that will attract the magic number of 314 MPs needed for a majority in order that a way out can be enacted.

Crucially, we know that if such a plan were to emerge, it would not be a hard Brexit or May’s deal – that much has been proven in the run-up to the originally planned vote. Whatever the proposal would be, we should remind ourselves and others that this will be the will of the people expressed via British constitutional means.

Whatever the focus on the role of the PM and other individual politicians in another crazy week, let’s try to remember that the collective sense of the country’s elective representatives is the key player here. Let’s hope it shows up.

(Andy Price is Head of Politics, Sheffield Hallam University)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/brexit-vote-postponed-what-parliament-must-do-now-to-fix-theresa-mays-mess-108518">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

 
&nbsp;

By Andy Price Finally, after two tortuous years of negotiations, it looked like the UK’s elected representatives were about to vote on Prime Minister Theresa May’s Brexit deal.

By Andy Price Finally, after two tortuous years of negotiations, it looked like the UK’s elected representatives were about to vote on Prime Minister Theresa May’s Brexit deal. Then, despite vowing to go ahead, May decided to postpone the vote the day before. She had faced almost certain defeat and now says she will speak to EU leaders to find a new way forward. Technically and legally May was within her rights to back out of the vote. However, the political optics are another thing altogether. This is a government, remember, found in contempt of Parliament for withholding information from MPs. Pulling such an important vote out of self-interest does not look good. Doing so a day before the vote is not politic, as Speaker John Bercow pointed out after her statement. Just how much of the normal running order of UK politics is the prime minister ready to jettison? It seems that May now intends to go back to Brussels and seek concessions around the Irish backstop – a sticking point that riled Brexiteers and Remainers MPs alike – in order to make the vote winnable at a later date. But the question here must be: what concessions? Is she going to ask that the UK as whole to stay in the customs union and maybe even the single market, which is the only real way the Irish border (and the backstop) problem disappears? Not a chance: this would anger the Brexiteers in her party even more (if that is possible). Rather, the concession she is after is to somehow make the backstop more palatable to the people she has been appealing to from the beginning: the hard Brexiteers. That might be something like agreeing that the backstop becomes a temporary arrangement, somehow. Corbyn’s alternative? How will opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn react to this delay? Is he going to try and stick to the line that he wants a general election, promising that if – and it is a big “if” – he won that election he would go back and renegotiate with the EU? If so, then his fate looks as bleak as May’s. What is it that he imagines he can offer that will provide enough fuel to power the EU27 to reopen the negotiations they have just taken so long to close? And remember, they are not just reopening negotiations with the UK, but among themselves too: they have to reach a unified position before they can agree a position with the UK. The idea that they will be able to reopen talks and get negotiations finished before the end of March is quite frankly ludicrous. Apart, maybe, from one scenario: that a Labour government would offer to stay in the customs union, in the single market, accept freedom of movement and the jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice. That may be motivation enough for the EU – but it is essentially staying in the EU in anything else but name (and decision-making power). Parliamentary power Whatever happens next, one thing is clear: the heads of the UK’s two main parties are no closer to solving this problem from their positions of leadership. It is to other MPs, then, that voters should turn. Only the House of Commons, acting as a collective body, can steer the nation through this political mess. We should remember that despite all the cries of betrayal from the Brexiteers, this House of Commons as a collective entity was constituted by the people in a vote that superseded the referendum: the snap election of 2017. The MPs that sit in this parliament are the representatives the people chose to enact Brexit in 2017. And key here is that this house of Commons is hung – there is no outright majority. A clearer display of where the country is at you could not find. As a reflection of that very vote, this house has found it very difficult to agree on anything as the negotiations on Brexit have progressed. This, then, is the state of the House of Commons as we head into Christmas. And the reality is, everything the government and the opposition have tried so far in terms of Brexit has so far failed. MPs need to find a way to coalesce around a different way forward. There needs to be a proposal, plan or motion that will attract the magic number of 314 MPs needed for a majority in order that a way out can be enacted. Crucially, we know that if such a plan were to emerge, it would not be a hard Brexit or May’s deal – that much has been proven in the run-up to the originally planned vote. Whatever the proposal would be, we should remind ourselves and others that this will be the will of the people expressed via British constitutional means. Whatever the focus on the role of the PM and other individual politicians in another crazy week, let’s try to remember that the collective sense of the country’s elective representatives is the key player here. Let’s hope it shows up. (Andy Price is Head of Politics, Sheffield Hallam University) (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)

Brexit vote postponed: What Parliament must do now to fix Theresa May’s mess

Britain's parliament will vote on whether to approve Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit deal before January 21, her spokesman said on Tuesday.

May had been due to hold the vote later on Tuesday, but on Monday announced she would defer it and seek extra reassurances from the European Union to make sure it got through parliament.

May is looking to resolve the impasse over her deal as quickly as possible, and intends to get the assurances she needs from European leaders before January 21, the spokesman told reporters.

The spokesman also said May had earlier held a productive meeting with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, the first stop on a tour of European capitals. The two agreed to work to find a way through the current situation, he said.

May will hold a meeting of her cabinet on Wednesday afternoon.

Britain's parliament will vote on whether to approve Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit deal before January 21, her spokesman said on Tuesday. May had been due to hold the vote later on Tuesday, but on Monday announced she would defer it and seek extra reassurances from the European Union to make sure it got through parliament.

Britain's parliament will vote on whether to approve Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit deal before January 21, her spokesman said on Tuesday. May had been due to hold the vote later on Tuesday, but on Monday announced she would defer it and seek extra reassurances from the European Union to make sure it got through parliament. May is looking to resolve the impasse over her deal as quickly as possible, and intends to get the assurances she needs from European leaders before January 21, the spokesman told reporters. The spokesman also said May had earlier held a productive meeting with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, the first stop on a tour of European capitals. The two agreed to work to find a way through the current situation, he said. May will hold a meeting of her cabinet on Wednesday afternoon.

British MPs to vote on Brexit deal 'before January 21'

Ireland will ramp up its plans for a no-deal Brexit including accelerating the recruitment of 1,000 customs officials and veterinary inspectors to work at ports and airports, Foreign Minister Simon Coveney said on Tuesday.

Coveney will bring a detailed paper to cabinet on Tuesday on preparations for various Brexit scenarios, including the possibility that Britain will crash out of the European Union without a deal that he said the government must now gear up for.

"We are now actively, not only preparing for that, but taking actions to ensure that if necessary we will be ready on March 29 for Britain to leave the EU without a deal," Simon Coveney told Irish national broadcaster RTE, adding that he still thought a no deal Brexit was unlikely.

Dublin has begun the process of hiring enough veterinary inspectors and customs officials to prepare for the likely changes to trade between Ireland and Britain that would result even in the case of an orderly exit from the EU.

However, Coveney said that rather than having to have those officials in place in two years time, the recruitment would have to be significantly accelerated while senior civil servants would also gear up to put other preparations in place.

With close, intertwined trading links to the United Kingdom and a shared land border, Ireland's fast growing economy is widely considered the most at risk in the rest of the EU when its neighbour leaves the bloc.

The gap between 10-year bond yields in Ireland and those in Germany - considered the safest in the euro zone - hit its widest level in six months at 68 basis points on the Brexit uncertainty.

Ireland has insisted that it will make no such contingency plans along the land border between Northern Ireland and the Irish Republic, the future of which is central to British Prime Minister Theresa May`s problems in winning parliamentary support for her Brexit deal.

After she postponed a vote on the deal on Monday, Coveney said he did not believe the wording of the withdrawal agreement would change "at all", echoing a view shared throughout the EU.

Coveney noted that May strongly defended the so-called Irish "backstop", the problematic insurance policy to ensure no return to a hard border on the island of Ireland, and said he expected EU leaders could provide an additional declaration that the mechanism is just a temporary, fall back option.

"I hope we can provide her with the reassurance she needs now to be able to go back convincingly to Westminster to show that the backstop is not something to be feared by the British parliament but actually something that is very much consistent with the responsibilities of both the British government and Irish government to the people of the island," he said.

Ireland will ramp up its plans for a no-deal Brexit including accelerating the recruitment of 1,000 customs officials and veterinary inspectors to work at ports and airports, Foreign Minister Simon Coveney said on Tuesday.

Ireland will ramp up its plans for a no-deal Brexit including accelerating the recruitment of 1,000 customs officials and veterinary inspectors to work at ports and airports, Foreign Minister Simon Coveney said on Tuesday. Coveney will bring a detailed paper to cabinet on Tuesday on preparations for various Brexit scenarios, including the possibility that Britain will crash out of the European Union without a deal that he said the government must now gear up for. "We are now actively, not only preparing for that, but taking actions to ensure that if necessary we will be ready on March 29 for Britain to leave the EU without a deal," Simon Coveney told Irish national broadcaster RTE, adding that he still thought a no deal Brexit was unlikely. Dublin has begun the process of hiring enough veterinary inspectors and customs officials to prepare for the likely changes to trade between Ireland and Britain that would result even in the case of an orderly exit from the EU. However, Coveney said that rather than having to have those officials in place in two years time, the recruitment would have to be significantly accelerated while senior civil servants would also gear up to put other preparations in place. With close, intertwined trading links to the United Kingdom and a shared land border, Ireland's fast growing economy is widely considered the most at risk in the rest of the EU when its neighbour leaves the bloc. The gap between 10-year bond yields in Ireland and those in Germany - considered the safest in the euro zone - hit its widest level in six months at 68 basis points on the Brexit uncertainty. Ireland has insisted that it will make no such contingency plans along the land border between Northern Ireland and the Irish Republic, the future of which is central to British Prime Minister Theresa May`s problems in winning parliamentary support for her Brexit deal. After she postponed a vote on the deal on Monday, Coveney said he did not believe the wording of the withdrawal agreement would change "at all", echoing a view shared throughout the EU. Coveney noted that May strongly defended the so-called Irish "backstop", the problematic insurance policy to ensure no return to a hard border on the island of Ireland, and said he expected EU leaders could provide an additional declaration that the mechanism is just a temporary, fall back option. "I hope we can provide her with the reassurance she needs now to be able to go back convincingly to Westminster to show that the backstop is not something to be feared by the British parliament but actually something that is very much consistent with the responsibilities of both the British government and Irish government to the people of the island," he said.

Ireland to ramp up preparations for 'no deal' Brexit: Minister

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