Prime Minister Theresa May said on Sunday that Britain would be in uncharted territory if her Brexit deal is rejected by parliament later this month, despite little sign that she has won over sceptical lawmakers.

Britain is due to leave the EU on March 29 but May's inability so far to get her deal for a managed exit through parliament has alarmed business leaders and investors who fear the country is heading for a damaging no-deal Brexit.

May said the vote in parliament would be around January 15, as expected, contrary to reports she could delay it.

May has already delayed the vote once, in December, when it became clear she would lose unless extra reassurances from the EU were agreed.

Describing what would happen if she was defeated, May told the BBC: "We're going to be in uncharted territory. I don't think anybody can say exactly what will happen in terms of the reaction we'll see in parliament."

Amid the uncertainty over Britain's next steps - which range from leaving without a deal to not leaving at all - a poll showed more Britons want to remain a member of the EU than leave, and voters want to make the final decision themselves.

May's party itself is divided over its support for her deal, with many fearing that an insurance policy designed to avoid the re-emergence of a hard border between Ireland and Northern Ireland could leave Britain subject to EU rules indefinitely.

One of those leading that opposition, lawmaker Jacob Rees-Mogg, said in a newspaper article that it was "wishful thinking" that time away from parliament over the Christmas holiday could persuade him to change his mind and back the deal.

Work to do

With the parliamentary debate on her deal due to begin on January 9, May said there was still work to do to get reassurances over the backstop from the EU. She also promised parliament would have a greater say in the rest of the Brexit process and warned that rejecting her deal could prevent Britain's exit.

"Don't let the search for the perfect become the enemy of the good, because the danger there is actually we end up with no Brexit at all," May said.

She did not answer whether she would, if defeated, make a second attempt to get the deal passed by parliament.

May also did not directly respond, when asked, if she was leading the country toward a no-deal Brexit, but repeated her objections to holding a fresh public vote on the deal.

She said a second referendum would be divisive and disrespectful to those who voted to leave in the initial vote, and also highlighted the lack of time available to hold a new referendum.

"Practically, actually you couldn't get a referendum in time before the 29th of March - you'd be talking about extending Article 50," she said, referring to the two-year exit notice Britain sent to the EU in March 2017.

Prime Minister Theresa May said on Sunday that Britain would be in uncharted territory if her Brexit deal is rejected by parliament later this month, despite little sign that she has won over sceptical lawmakers.

Prime Minister Theresa May said on Sunday that Britain would be in uncharted territory if her Brexit deal is rejected by parliament later this month, despite little sign that she has won over sceptical lawmakers. Britain is due to leave the EU on March 29 but May's inability so far to get her deal for a managed exit through parliament has alarmed business leaders and investors who fear the country is heading for a damaging no-deal Brexit. May said the vote in parliament would be around January 15, as expected, contrary to reports she could delay it. May has already delayed the vote once, in December, when it became clear she would lose unless extra reassurances from the EU were agreed. Describing what would happen if she was defeated, May told the BBC: "We're going to be in uncharted territory. I don't think anybody can say exactly what will happen in terms of the reaction we'll see in parliament." Amid the uncertainty over Britain's next steps - which range from leaving without a deal to not leaving at all - a poll showed more Britons want to remain a member of the EU than leave, and voters want to make the final decision themselves. May's party itself is divided over its support for her deal, with many fearing that an insurance policy designed to avoid the re-emergence of a hard border between Ireland and Northern Ireland could leave Britain subject to EU rules indefinitely. One of those leading that opposition, lawmaker Jacob Rees-Mogg, said in a newspaper article that it was "wishful thinking" that time away from parliament over the Christmas holiday could persuade him to change his mind and back the deal. Work to do With the parliamentary debate on her deal due to begin on January 9, May said there was still work to do to get reassurances over the backstop from the EU. She also promised parliament would have a greater say in the rest of the Brexit process and warned that rejecting her deal could prevent Britain's exit. "Don't let the search for the perfect become the enemy of the good, because the danger there is actually we end up with no Brexit at all," May said. She did not answer whether she would, if defeated, make a second attempt to get the deal passed by parliament. May also did not directly respond, when asked, if she was leading the country toward a no-deal Brexit, but repeated her objections to holding a fresh public vote on the deal. She said a second referendum would be divisive and disrespectful to those who voted to leave in the initial vote, and also highlighted the lack of time available to hold a new referendum. "Practically, actually you couldn't get a referendum in time before the 29th of March - you'd be talking about extending Article 50," she said, referring to the two-year exit notice Britain sent to the EU in March 2017.

PM May says if Brexit deal is rejected, UK will be in uncharted territory

Britain is more likely to end up leaving the European Union without a deal if parliament rejects the agreement Prime Minister Theresa May has negotiated with Brussels, Brexit minister Stephen Barclay said on Thursday.

"No deal will be far more likely if MPs (Members of Parliament) reject the government's Brexit deal later this month," Barclay wrote in the Daily Express newspaper.&nbsp;

Britain is more likely to end up leaving the European Union without a deal if parliament rejects the agreement Prime Minister Theresa May has negotiated with Brussels, Brexit minister Stephen Barclay said on Thursday.

Britain is more likely to end up leaving the European Union without a deal if parliament rejects the agreement Prime Minister Theresa May has negotiated with Brussels, Brexit minister Stephen Barclay said on Thursday. "No deal will be far more likely if MPs (Members of Parliament) reject the government's Brexit deal later this month," Barclay wrote in the Daily Express newspaper.

UK Brexit minister: No-deal EU exit 'far more likely' if parliament rejects PM May's deal

The ongoing digital transformation taking place globally is making <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/h-1b-visa-row-indian-it-industry-faces-many-challenges-175008">India's information technology (IT) industry</a> stronger, a trend that would continue its growth momentum at least in the foreseeable future, says an expert.

Former President of the industry body NASSCOM (National Association of Software and Services Companies), R Chandrashekhar said 2018 has been a watershed year for the Indian IT industry because in 2016 people were writing its "obituaries."

He said 2017 was a difficult year for the industry and there were many challenges during that period.

"And in 2018 headlines were all about how the IT industry has really made really big strides in digital transformation space globally...Which basically shows that the shift to digital has not killed the IT industry", he told PTI.

"On the contrary, it has actually made it stronger and more important as a partner for its clients," Chandrashekhar said.

"So, that's very big accomplishment by the industry and shows that the growth momentum will continue into at least foreseeable future because this is a trend which is going to remain there for a long time now".

It's a "clear and positive sign" for the industry, he said.

Also, he noted that many big IT companies in India are reporting a very strong deal pipeline and, so, the growth momentum can be expected to continue.

Several companies are forming joint ventures and also acquiring companies which, Chandrashekhar said, are important strategies to keep the growth. "Growth momentum is strong and is expected to continue."

On things in 2019 which could have a dampening effect on the export-dependent IT industry, he said if American economy slows down, it would have an impact, as also a "hard Brexit". Appreciation of rupee would have an impact on the rupee earnings of companies.

But he stressed that one should not be unduly concerned about those factors because they don't fundamentally affect the strength of the Indian IT industry.

Former president of NASSCOM R Chandrashekhar noted that many big IT companies in India are reporting a very strong deal pipeline and, so, the growth momentum can be expected to continue.

The ongoing digital transformation taking place globally is making India's information technology (IT) industry stronger, a trend that would continue its growth momentum at least in the foreseeable future, says an expert. Former President of the industry body NASSCOM (National Association of Software and Services Companies), R Chandrashekhar said 2018 has been a watershed year for the Indian IT industry because in 2016 people were writing its "obituaries." He said 2017 was a difficult year for the industry and there were many challenges during that period. "And in 2018 headlines were all about how the IT industry has really made really big strides in digital transformation space globally...Which basically shows that the shift to digital has not killed the IT industry", he told PTI. "On the contrary, it has actually made it stronger and more important as a partner for its clients," Chandrashekhar said. "So, that's very big accomplishment by the industry and shows that the growth momentum will continue into at least foreseeable future because this is a trend which is going to remain there for a long time now". It's a "clear and positive sign" for the industry, he said. Also, he noted that many big IT companies in India are reporting a very strong deal pipeline and, so, the growth momentum can be expected to continue. Several companies are forming joint ventures and also acquiring companies which, Chandrashekhar said, are important strategies to keep the growth. "Growth momentum is strong and is expected to continue." On things in 2019 which could have a dampening effect on the export-dependent IT industry, he said if American economy slows down, it would have an impact, as also a "hard Brexit". Appreciation of rupee would have an impact on the rupee earnings of companies. But he stressed that one should not be unduly concerned about those factors because they don't fundamentally affect the strength of the Indian IT industry.

Growth momentum is strong for Indian IT companies: Former NASSCOM president

US&nbsp;President Donald Trump might visit Britain in May 2019 after the country's departure in March from the European Union, the US ambassador to Britain, Woody Johnson, said on Monday.

Asked whether a state visit promised by Prime Minister Theresa May last year could be rescheduled to coincide with a commemoration of the end of World War Two in May, Johnson told BBC radio: "Between you and me, I think that would be a good time."

Trump visited Britain in July and although it was not a formal state visit after wide public protests, he met Queen Elizabeth.

Brexit marks a watershed in Britain's diplomatic relations with the world as it tries to reshape ties to Europe and bolster its long-standing "special relationship" with the United States under Trump's unpredictable presidency.

Asked if Trump would like to come again for a state visit, Johnson said: "I would think the President would be in favour of it and looking forward to it because that was mentioned when he was over here, so if we can do that it would be, I think, a big positive."

He said a deadlock in Britain's parliament, which means that it is unclear what shape Brexit will take, meant a solution was necessary. "The country is in need of leadership."

Johnson reiterated Trump's view that the United States was looking forward to a "quick, very massive bilateral trade deal" after Brexit, but that did not "look possible" under the current terms on which Prime Minister Theresa May has agreed a draft deal to leave the EU.

Trump said in November that May's deal sounded like it would be good for the EU and cast doubt on how that would affect US-UK trading arrangements.

Trump visited Britain in July and although it was not a formal state visit after wide public protests, he met Queen Elizabeth.

US President Donald Trump might visit Britain in May 2019 after the country's departure in March from the European Union, the US ambassador to Britain, Woody Johnson, said on Monday. Asked whether a state visit promised by Prime Minister Theresa May last year could be rescheduled to coincide with a commemoration of the end of World War Two in May, Johnson told BBC radio: "Between you and me, I think that would be a good time." Trump visited Britain in July and although it was not a formal state visit after wide public protests, he met Queen Elizabeth. Brexit marks a watershed in Britain's diplomatic relations with the world as it tries to reshape ties to Europe and bolster its long-standing "special relationship" with the United States under Trump's unpredictable presidency. Asked if Trump would like to come again for a state visit, Johnson said: "I would think the President would be in favour of it and looking forward to it because that was mentioned when he was over here, so if we can do that it would be, I think, a big positive." He said a deadlock in Britain's parliament, which means that it is unclear what shape Brexit will take, meant a solution was necessary. "The country is in need of leadership." Johnson reiterated Trump's view that the United States was looking forward to a "quick, very massive bilateral trade deal" after Brexit, but that did not "look possible" under the current terms on which Prime Minister Theresa May has agreed a draft deal to leave the EU. Trump said in November that May's deal sounded like it would be good for the EU and cast doubt on how that would affect US-UK trading arrangements.

Donald Trump may visit UK after Brexit: Envoy

Britain's chances of leaving the European Union are only "50-50" if MPs reject Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit deal, a senior minister warned Sunday.

Liam Fox, the international trade secretary and a vocal Brexit campaigner during the 2016 referendum, warned colleagues planning on voting against May that her plan was the only way to be "100 per cent certain" that Britain would leave.

"If we were not to vote for that, I'm not sure I would give it much more than 50-50," he told The Sunday Times.

May's government is trying to persuade a sceptical British parliament to endorse a broad withdrawal deal she struck with European leaders last month.

But the bill's passage is far from certain, with May having to pull an initial vote with a crushing defeat looking, rescheduling it for the week beginning January 14.

Pro-Brexit supporters are particularly concerned about the deal's so-called "backstop" provision, which could keep Britain locked in a customs union with the EU in order to avoid a "hard" border between British province Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

But Fox urged his colleagues to "put their own pride behind them" and take what was on offer.

"The worst possible outcome of this process would be no Brexit," he told the paper.

"For me, that would induce a sense that we had betrayed the people that voted in the referendum.

"What you can be sure of is that if we vote for the prime minister's deal then its 100 per cent certain that we will leave on March 29."

He also warned parliament against trying to thwart the process through a series of legislative procedures.

"Shattering that bond of trust between parliament and the people, I think, would be incendiary," he said.

Liam Fox warned colleagues planning on voting against May that her plan was the only way to be '100 per cent certain' that Britain would leave.

Britain's chances of leaving the European Union are only "50-50" if MPs reject Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit deal, a senior minister warned Sunday. Liam Fox, the international trade secretary and a vocal Brexit campaigner during the 2016 referendum, warned colleagues planning on voting against May that her plan was the only way to be "100 per cent certain" that Britain would leave. "If we were not to vote for that, I'm not sure I would give it much more than 50-50," he told The Sunday Times. May's government is trying to persuade a sceptical British parliament to endorse a broad withdrawal deal she struck with European leaders last month. But the bill's passage is far from certain, with May having to pull an initial vote with a crushing defeat looking, rescheduling it for the week beginning January 14. Pro-Brexit supporters are particularly concerned about the deal's so-called "backstop" provision, which could keep Britain locked in a customs union with the EU in order to avoid a "hard" border between British province Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. But Fox urged his colleagues to "put their own pride behind them" and take what was on offer. "The worst possible outcome of this process would be no Brexit," he told the paper. "For me, that would induce a sense that we had betrayed the people that voted in the referendum. "What you can be sure of is that if we vote for the prime minister's deal then its 100 per cent certain that we will leave on March 29." He also warned parliament against trying to thwart the process through a series of legislative procedures. "Shattering that bond of trust between parliament and the people, I think, would be incendiary," he said.

Brexit '50-50' if May's deal voted down: Senior British minister

Britain has spent more than £100 million on chartering ferries to mitigate the risk of "severe congestion" at the port of Dover in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/britons-could-face-diet-change-under-hard-brexit-report-185733">the event of a no-deal Brexit</a>, according to government documents.

The government has struck deals worth £107.7 million ($137 million, 117 million euros) with British, French and Danish ferry companies that would allow for almost 4,000 more lorries a week to use other ports on England's south coast to prevent a bottleneck at Dover, it added.

"This significant extra capacity is a small but important element of the Department for Transport's (DfT) no-deal Brexit planning," said a spokesman for the department.

"The department is helping ensure the rest of government are fully prepared for a range of scenarios, including a particular focus on a potential no-deal and to mitigate the impact of any Brexit outcome on all transport modes."

The DfT has signed contracts with French firm Brittany Ferries, Danish company DFDS and Britain's Seaborne, saying the awards were "a small but important element" of its no-deal planning.

The additional services will provide up to half a million tonnes a month in extra capacity, which the government hopes will mitigate the extra time needed to perform customs checks on incoming and outgoing freight.

Liberal Democrat leader Sir Vince Cable called the move "complete madness".

"The government has the power to stop 'no deal' at any time but instead is spending millions on last-minute contracts," he said.

The department also warned that increased border checks could "cause delivery of critical goods to be delayed", and "significant wider disruption to the UK economy".

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/theresa-may-cuts-christmas-break-short-to-prepare-for-brexit-186415">British Prime Minister Theresa May</a> secured an agreement with European Union leaders on Nov 25 that would see Britain leave the bloc on March 29 with continued close trade ties, but the odds look stacked against her getting it through a deeply divided British parliament.

The deal has been criticised from among May's Conservative lawmakers by supporters of a cleaner break with the EU and those who want to keep close ties.

Britain has spent more than £100 million on chartering ferries to mitigate the risk of "severe congestion" at the port of Dover in the event of a no-deal Brexit, according to government documents.

Britain has spent more than £100 million on chartering ferries to mitigate the risk of "severe congestion" at the port of Dover in the event of a no-deal Brexit, according to government documents. The government has struck deals worth £107.7 million ($137 million, 117 million euros) with British, French and Danish ferry companies that would allow for almost 4,000 more lorries a week to use other ports on England's south coast to prevent a bottleneck at Dover, it added. "This significant extra capacity is a small but important element of the Department for Transport's (DfT) no-deal Brexit planning," said a spokesman for the department. "The department is helping ensure the rest of government are fully prepared for a range of scenarios, including a particular focus on a potential no-deal and to mitigate the impact of any Brexit outcome on all transport modes." The DfT has signed contracts with French firm Brittany Ferries, Danish company DFDS and Britain's Seaborne, saying the awards were "a small but important element" of its no-deal planning. The additional services will provide up to half a million tonnes a month in extra capacity, which the government hopes will mitigate the extra time needed to perform customs checks on incoming and outgoing freight. Liberal Democrat leader Sir Vince Cable called the move "complete madness". "The government has the power to stop 'no deal' at any time but instead is spending millions on last-minute contracts," he said. The department also warned that increased border checks could "cause delivery of critical goods to be delayed", and "significant wider disruption to the UK economy". British Prime Minister Theresa May secured an agreement with European Union leaders on Nov 25 that would see Britain leave the bloc on March 29 with continued close trade ties, but the odds look stacked against her getting it through a deeply divided British parliament. The deal has been criticised from among May's Conservative lawmakers by supporters of a cleaner break with the EU and those who want to keep close ties.

UK splashes £100 million on ferries to ease Brexit fears

Germany's leading industry groups said on Wednesday that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/as-brexit-muddles-along-trump-roots-for-a-full-break-184425">Britain's departure from the European Union</a> and trade disputes triggered by US&nbsp;President Donald Trump's 'America First' policies were posing the biggest risks to growth and prosperity.

The German economy, Europe's largest, is expected to post its weakest growth rate in many years in 2018 as exporters are facing headwinds from abroad. But vibrant domestic demand means many companies are still able to expand the business.

In a survey conducted by Reuters, the heads of Germany's leading industry associations said they did not see the economy entering a recession and that most forecasts were predicting a solid growth rate of around 1.5 per cent for 2019.

But the industry associations said the economic woes of company executives were increasing and the government should do more to help them, for example by lowering corporate taxes and investing more in digital infrastructure.

"The biggest risk in the short term is Brexit," said Dieter Kempf, president of the BDI industry association.

If Britain left the EU in March without any agreement on its future relations with the bloc, this would create massive uncertainties for trade and business, Kempf warned.

"The British economy would face the direct threat of a recession which would indirectly also affect Germany," Kempf said.

Holger Bingmann, head of the BGA trade group, said Brexit was the "most urgent problem for the German economy" while an escalation of international trade disputes sparked by the United States could potentially derail the economic upswing

DIHK President Eric Schweitzer said German companies are still worried about the US&nbsp;imposing higher import tariffs on European cars. "The threat of car tariffs is still on the table," Schweitzer warned.

It was vital that both sides increased their efforts to find a solution to the trade dispute through negotiations that ideally would lead to lower tariffs, Schweitzer said.

The German economy likely grew by around 1.5 per cent this year, compared with 2.2 per cent in 2017.

Germany's leading industry groups said on Wednesday that Britain's departure from the European Union and trade disputes triggered by US President Donald Trump's 'America First' policies were posing the biggest risks to growth and prosperity.

Germany's leading industry groups said on Wednesday that Britain's departure from the European Union and trade disputes triggered by US President Donald Trump's 'America First' policies were posing the biggest risks to growth and prosperity. The German economy, Europe's largest, is expected to post its weakest growth rate in many years in 2018 as exporters are facing headwinds from abroad. But vibrant domestic demand means many companies are still able to expand the business. In a survey conducted by Reuters, the heads of Germany's leading industry associations said they did not see the economy entering a recession and that most forecasts were predicting a solid growth rate of around 1.5 per cent for 2019. But the industry associations said the economic woes of company executives were increasing and the government should do more to help them, for example by lowering corporate taxes and investing more in digital infrastructure. "The biggest risk in the short term is Brexit," said Dieter Kempf, president of the BDI industry association. If Britain left the EU in March without any agreement on its future relations with the bloc, this would create massive uncertainties for trade and business, Kempf warned. "The British economy would face the direct threat of a recession which would indirectly also affect Germany," Kempf said. Holger Bingmann, head of the BGA trade group, said Brexit was the "most urgent problem for the German economy" while an escalation of international trade disputes sparked by the United States could potentially derail the economic upswing DIHK President Eric Schweitzer said German companies are still worried about the US imposing higher import tariffs on European cars. "The threat of car tariffs is still on the table," Schweitzer warned. It was vital that both sides increased their efforts to find a solution to the trade dispute through negotiations that ideally would lead to lower tariffs, Schweitzer said. The German economy likely grew by around 1.5 per cent this year, compared with 2.2 per cent in 2017.

German industry views Brexit, Trump as biggest risks to economy

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/theresa-may-says-further-brexit-talks-with-eu-in-coming-days-184100">British Prime Minister Theresa May </a>has cut her Cabinet's Christmas break short to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/britons-could-face-diet-change-under-hard-brexit-report-185733">prepare for Brexit</a> as the March 2019 deadline nears.

Her senior ministers will reconvene for a Cabinet meeting on January 2, five days before the rest of the UK Parliament returns from Christmas recess, to begin preparations for all eventualities including a chaotic no-deal Brexit.

Stephen Barclay, her Brexit Secretary, will lead the Cabinet meeting, which will take place a week before Parliament is scheduled to reconvene for the New Year, according to the Financial Times.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/police-powers-may-be-increased-to-combat-drones-uk-pm-may-185603">Prime Minister May </a>had put off the vote on her controversial Brexit deal two weeks ago amid deep parliamentary divisions, postponing it to mid-January instead. She has been trying to convince her MPs to back her plan, in part through ramping up the threat of no deal.

Writing in the Daily Express, she called on the Conservative Party to "put aside our differences" as the "vast majority of people" want politicians to move on from Brexit to focus on other issues.

May said it is time to "dispense with the titles of 'Leave' and 'Remain,' and instead find common ground and focus on what we can achieve together".

Christmas is a time "to put aside our differences and focus on what really matters", she said.

"Now, two and a half years after the referendum, it is time for us as a country to do the same," she added.

UK Environment Secretary Michael Gove is said to be petrified of a disorderly no-deal Brexit, which he believes will leave Britain with severe food shortages.

May also highlighted the public worries about the shortage of affordable homes.

"The sooner MPs agree the right Brexit deal, the sooner we can all get back to dealing with those issues and building a country that works for everyone," she said while accepting that "hard work" lies ahead for the government over the coming months.

She will spend Christmas Day in her Maidenhead constituency with her husband Philip before heading back to work.

Britain is scheduled to formally leave the European Union (EU) on March 29, 2019, which means the clock is running out on both sides arriving at an amicable exit agreement. However, with all sides of the UK Parliament not yet in favour of May's deal struck with EU leaders, the uncertainty over how Brexit would play out in the New Year remains.&nbsp;

British Prime Minister Theresa May has cut her Cabinet's Christmas break short to prepare for Brexit as the March 2019 deadline nears. Her senior ministers will reconvene for a Cabinet meeting on January 2, five days before the rest of the UK Parliament returns from Christmas recess, to begin preparations for all eventualities including a chaotic no-deal Brexit.

British Prime Minister Theresa May has cut her Cabinet's Christmas break short to prepare for Brexit as the March 2019 deadline nears. Her senior ministers will reconvene for a Cabinet meeting on January 2, five days before the rest of the UK Parliament returns from Christmas recess, to begin preparations for all eventualities including a chaotic no-deal Brexit. Stephen Barclay, her Brexit Secretary, will lead the Cabinet meeting, which will take place a week before Parliament is scheduled to reconvene for the New Year, according to the Financial Times. Prime Minister May had put off the vote on her controversial Brexit deal two weeks ago amid deep parliamentary divisions, postponing it to mid-January instead. She has been trying to convince her MPs to back her plan, in part through ramping up the threat of no deal. Writing in the Daily Express, she called on the Conservative Party to "put aside our differences" as the "vast majority of people" want politicians to move on from Brexit to focus on other issues. May said it is time to "dispense with the titles of 'Leave' and 'Remain,' and instead find common ground and focus on what we can achieve together". Christmas is a time "to put aside our differences and focus on what really matters", she said. "Now, two and a half years after the referendum, it is time for us as a country to do the same," she added. UK Environment Secretary Michael Gove is said to be petrified of a disorderly no-deal Brexit, which he believes will leave Britain with severe food shortages. May also highlighted the public worries about the shortage of affordable homes. "The sooner MPs agree the right Brexit deal, the sooner we can all get back to dealing with those issues and building a country that works for everyone," she said while accepting that "hard work" lies ahead for the government over the coming months. She will spend Christmas Day in her Maidenhead constituency with her husband Philip before heading back to work. Britain is scheduled to formally leave the European Union (EU) on March 29, 2019, which means the clock is running out on both sides arriving at an amicable exit agreement. However, with all sides of the UK Parliament not yet in favour of May's deal struck with EU leaders, the uncertainty over how Brexit would play out in the New Year remains.

UK PM May cuts Christmas break short to prepare for Brexit

Paddy Ashdown, the face of centrist politics in Britain for more than a decade and a one-time marine commando who sought to secure peace in the former Yugoslavia, died on Saturday after being treated for cancer. He was 77.

Ashdown led the Liberal Democrats for 11 years up to 1999, steering it to become a campaigning force in British politics against the Conservatives and the Labour Party.

The party said Ashdown died on Saturday evening after a short illness. He had recently been hospitalised with bladder cancer.

It said he would be remembered as someone who made an immeasurable contribution to furthering the cause of liberalism.

Tributes came in from across the political spectrum. 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> said Ashdown served his country with distinction. "He dedicated his life to public service and he will be sorely missed," she said in a statement.&nbsp;

Calling Ashdown a "true patriot", former Conservative Prime Minister John Major said: "In Government, Paddy Ashdown was my opponent. In Life, he was a much-valued friend."&nbsp;

Jeremy John Ashdown was born in India on February 27, 1941, the eldest son of an Indian army colonel. When he was five, his father became a pig-farmer in Northern Ireland.

He was educated at an English private school where he earned the nickname Paddy because of his strong Irish accent.

He spent years in the Royal Marines and was on active service as a commando in the jungles of Borneo. He entered parliament in 1983 and was virtually unknown when he became the leader of the pro-European party five years later.&nbsp;

However, his craggy good looks he had short sandy hair&nbsp;and an earnest expression swiftly helped him to become one of his country`s most popular leaders and for a time the "Mr Clean" of British politics.

He also gained in stature during the 1991 Gulf War, which allowed him to display his military experience and diplomatic skills.

Ashdown`s image as a family man above the sniping of mainstream politics took a hit in February 1992 when he was forced to admit to a brief extra-marital affair with his secretary.

Having stood down in 1999, he went on to become the United Nations high representative and European Union special representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Ashdown described himself as having few gifts other than strong willpower.

"People said I couldn`t learn Chinese, they said I couldn`t run 30 miles in six hours. This sounds extraordinarily arrogant but I can`t remember a thing upon which I`ve set my mind that I didn`t succeed in doing," he said in early 1992.

He was replaced as head of the party by Charles Kennedy who enjoyed further electoral success when he opposed Blair`s decision to invade Iraq, and the party under Nick Clegg entered power in a coalition David Cameron`s Conservatives in 2010.&nbsp;

It has since been decimated at the polls.&nbsp;

Ashdown, the author of several books, had two children with his wife, Jane.

He had in recent years campaigned alongside Cameron and other leaders for Britain to remain within the European Union. He warned that chaos could ensue if it voted to leave and described Brexit as "a sense of personal bereavement".

Paddy Ashdown, the face of centrist politics in Britain for more than a decade and a one-time marine commando who sought to secure peace in the former Yugoslavia, died on Saturday after being treated for cancer.

Paddy Ashdown, the face of centrist politics in Britain for more than a decade and a one-time marine commando who sought to secure peace in the former Yugoslavia, died on Saturday after being treated for cancer. He was 77. Ashdown led the Liberal Democrats for 11 years up to 1999, steering it to become a campaigning force in British politics against the Conservatives and the Labour Party. The party said Ashdown died on Saturday evening after a short illness. He had recently been hospitalised with bladder cancer. It said he would be remembered as someone who made an immeasurable contribution to furthering the cause of liberalism. Tributes came in from across the political spectrum. Prime Minister Theresa May said Ashdown served his country with distinction. "He dedicated his life to public service and he will be sorely missed," she said in a statement. Calling Ashdown a "true patriot", former Conservative Prime Minister John Major said: "In Government, Paddy Ashdown was my opponent. In Life, he was a much-valued friend." Jeremy John Ashdown was born in India on February 27, 1941, the eldest son of an Indian army colonel. When he was five, his father became a pig-farmer in Northern Ireland. He was educated at an English private school where he earned the nickname Paddy because of his strong Irish accent. He spent years in the Royal Marines and was on active service as a commando in the jungles of Borneo. He entered parliament in 1983 and was virtually unknown when he became the leader of the pro-European party five years later. However, his craggy good looks he had short sandy hair and an earnest expression swiftly helped him to become one of his country`s most popular leaders and for a time the "Mr Clean" of British politics. He also gained in stature during the 1991 Gulf War, which allowed him to display his military experience and diplomatic skills. Ashdown`s image as a family man above the sniping of mainstream politics took a hit in February 1992 when he was forced to admit to a brief extra-marital affair with his secretary. Having stood down in 1999, he went on to become the United Nations high representative and European Union special representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina. Ashdown described himself as having few gifts other than strong willpower. "People said I couldn`t learn Chinese, they said I couldn`t run 30 miles in six hours. This sounds extraordinarily arrogant but I can`t remember a thing upon which I`ve set my mind that I didn`t succeed in doing," he said in early 1992. He was replaced as head of the party by Charles Kennedy who enjoyed further electoral success when he opposed Blair`s decision to invade Iraq, and the party under Nick Clegg entered power in a coalition David Cameron`s Conservatives in 2010. It has since been decimated at the polls. Ashdown, the author of several books, had two children with his wife, Jane. He had in recent years campaigned alongside Cameron and other leaders for Britain to remain within the European Union. He warned that chaos could ensue if it voted to leave and described Brexit as "a sense of personal bereavement".

UK: Former Liberal Democrats leader Paddy Ashdown dies

The British government could tell citizens to change their diets if importing food from the European Union becomes difficult under a no-deal Brexit, a report said Friday.

London has begun planning what to do about food supplies if Britain leaves the EU without an agreement with Brussels, The Times said, citing plans revealed to the newspaper.

Perishable goods, such as vegetables from the Netherlands or fruit from Spain, could be held up at the border if tough checks are imposed or the EU limits trade, said the report.

It said the government had identified giant hangars around the country that could be used to stockpile food.

However, officials do not think there would be a general food shortage, according to the report.

Some companies have begun taking matters into their own hands.

The Zizzi and ASK restaurant chains will be switching from Italian to British mozzarella suppliers.

The brands' parent company Azzurri said it had taken the decision due to fears that a no-deal Brexit would disrupt food supplies into Britain.

The new Welsh milk mozzarella has already been introduced by ASK and will be on the Zizzi menu next year.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/how-brexit-saga-unfolded-in-2018-184980">How Brexit saga unfolded in 2018</a>

Meanwhile, businesses including Premier Foods, Quorn, and London's plush Fortnum and Mason emporium have said they will stockpile some products in case of delays at the border.

The British government and Brussels have struck a withdrawal agreement that would prevent a no-deal Brexit.

However, it currently lacks majority support in the British parliament, being opposed by both Brexiteer lawmakers and pro-EU MPs alike.

The government has stepped up its no-deal planning.

Prime Minister Theresa May has said the vote on the deal will take place the week of January 14.

Britain is due to leave the EU on March 29.

The British government could tell citizens to change their diets if importing food from the European Union becomes difficult under a no-deal Brexit, a report said Friday.

The British government could tell citizens to change their diets if importing food from the European Union becomes difficult under a no-deal Brexit, a report said Friday. London has begun planning what to do about food supplies if Britain leaves the EU without an agreement with Brussels, The Times said, citing plans revealed to the newspaper. Perishable goods, such as vegetables from the Netherlands or fruit from Spain, could be held up at the border if tough checks are imposed or the EU limits trade, said the report. It said the government had identified giant hangars around the country that could be used to stockpile food. However, officials do not think there would be a general food shortage, according to the report. Some companies have begun taking matters into their own hands. The Zizzi and ASK restaurant chains will be switching from Italian to British mozzarella suppliers. The brands' parent company Azzurri said it had taken the decision due to fears that a no-deal Brexit would disrupt food supplies into Britain. The new Welsh milk mozzarella has already been introduced by ASK and will be on the Zizzi menu next year. Also read: How Brexit saga unfolded in 2018 Meanwhile, businesses including Premier Foods, Quorn, and London's plush Fortnum and Mason emporium have said they will stockpile some products in case of delays at the border. The British government and Brussels have struck a withdrawal agreement that would prevent a no-deal Brexit. However, it currently lacks majority support in the British parliament, being opposed by both Brexiteer lawmakers and pro-EU MPs alike. The government has stepped up its no-deal planning. Prime Minister Theresa May has said the vote on the deal will take place the week of January 14. Britain is due to leave the EU on March 29.

Britons could face diet change under hard Brexit: Report

The UK government has released a White Paper on its post-Brexit visas and immigration strategy, which is expected to benefit Indian students and professionals as it focuses on skills rather than country of origin.

The UK's future skills-based immigration system, tabled in the House of Commons on Wednesday by UK Home Secretary Sajid Javid, removes any cap on highly-skilled migrants from anywhere in the world and improves the post-study work offering for international students.

The proposals, set to be phased in from December 2021 after the proposed transition period for Britain's exit from the European Union (EU), claim to level the country's immigration playing field with the end of the free movement for people from within the 28-member economic bloc.

"As we leave the European Union, the free movement will end. This will be a system where it is workers' skills that matter, not which country they come from," <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uk-business-will-be-able-to-bring-in-high-skilled-workers-post-brexit-pm-may-180653">British Prime Minister Theresa May</a> said in her foreword to the strategy.

"We are taking a skills-based approach to ensure we can attract the brightest and best migrants to the UK," added Javid, who made a reference to his own Pakistani origins as the "son of immigrant parents".

Under the new proposals, an annual cap of 20,700 on the number of skilled work visas issued will be removed, likely to benefit doctors and IT professionals from India, among others. There will also be a new 12-month visa route for workers at any skill level for a temporary period to allow businesses to hire the staff they need on a time-bound basis.

"People arriving on this route will not be able to bring family members with them, won't accrue rights to settle in the UK and will have a 12-month cooling off period once their visa expires," the UK Home Office said.

The onerous requirement for labour market tests by employers wanting to sponsor an overseas skilled worker is also to be done away with.

The plans were broadly welcomed by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), which said the White Paper recognises the value offered by skilled workers from countries like India.

"Indian Industry has long called for a fair, transparent and skills-based immigration system, and today's proposals go some way to achieving these goals," said Jim Bligh, of Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) and Chair of CII's UK India Business Forum.

"Tackling the UK's skills gaps, particularly in digital and technology, must remain a key focus for government and it is welcome that this paper recognises the value that skilled workers from overseas can bring to helping improve the UK's skills base,"&nbsp;he said.

Under changes proposed to attract international students to the UK, the government said it would "improve the current offer" to those who have completed a degree who want to stay on in the UK to work after they have completed their studies by offering six months' post-study leave to all Master's students and Bachelor's students studying at an institution with degree-awarding powers.

This is aimed at giving them more time to find permanent skilled work and to work temporarily during that period.

"We will also allow for students studying a Bachelor's level or above to be able to apply to switch into the skilled workers route up to three months before the end of their course in the UK, and from outside of the UK for two years after their graduation," the White Paper notes.

Universities UK International, the representative group for the country's higher education institutions which has been campaigning for a better post-study offer, said the proposals recognise the important contributions made by international students to the UK.

"Allowing graduates to stay on for longer to find work in the UK sends the message that international students are welcome here, and we value the skills they bring. These changes will have a real, positive impact on the students who come here to study and their opportunities after graduating," said Vivienne Stern, Director of Universities UK International.

However, the group added that it will continue to campaign for a longer two-year post-study work visa.

As part of some of the more contentious aspects of the new immigration White Paper, the government will hold a consultation on a minimum salary requirement of 30,000 pounds for skilled migrants seeking five-year visas and low-skilled workers may be able to apply for short-term visas of up to a year.

The document forms the basis for the Immigration and Social Security Coordination (EU Withdrawal) Bill, to be published on Thursday, which ends free movement for EU nationals and creates the legal framework for a future UK borders and immigration system after Brexit. It also creates parity in the way migrants can access the country's benefits system, which will apply equally to both EU and non-EU nationals.

The new system will be implemented in a phased approach from 2021, following an extensive 12-month programme of engagement with businesses, stakeholders and the public, the Home Office said.

While it does not make a specific reference to the ruling Conservative Party's manifesto pledge to bring immigration down to the tens of thousands annually, the government stressed that the target remains in place.&nbsp;

The UK government has released a White Paper on its post-Brexit visas and immigration strategy, which is expected to benefit Indian students and professionals as it focuses on skills rather than country of origin.

The UK government has released a White Paper on its post-Brexit visas and immigration strategy, which is expected to benefit Indian students and professionals as it focuses on skills rather than country of origin. The UK's future skills-based immigration system, tabled in the House of Commons on Wednesday by UK Home Secretary Sajid Javid, removes any cap on highly-skilled migrants from anywhere in the world and improves the post-study work offering for international students. The proposals, set to be phased in from December 2021 after the proposed transition period for Britain's exit from the European Union (EU), claim to level the country's immigration playing field with the end of the free movement for people from within the 28-member economic bloc. "As we leave the European Union, the free movement will end. This will be a system where it is workers' skills that matter, not which country they come from," British Prime Minister Theresa May said in her foreword to the strategy. "We are taking a skills-based approach to ensure we can attract the brightest and best migrants to the UK," added Javid, who made a reference to his own Pakistani origins as the "son of immigrant parents". Under the new proposals, an annual cap of 20,700 on the number of skilled work visas issued will be removed, likely to benefit doctors and IT professionals from India, among others. There will also be a new 12-month visa route for workers at any skill level for a temporary period to allow businesses to hire the staff they need on a time-bound basis. "People arriving on this route will not be able to bring family members with them, won't accrue rights to settle in the UK and will have a 12-month cooling off period once their visa expires," the UK Home Office said. The onerous requirement for labour market tests by employers wanting to sponsor an overseas skilled worker is also to be done away with. The plans were broadly welcomed by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), which said the White Paper recognises the value offered by skilled workers from countries like India. "Indian Industry has long called for a fair, transparent and skills-based immigration system, and today's proposals go some way to achieving these goals," said Jim Bligh, of Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) and Chair of CII's UK India Business Forum. "Tackling the UK's skills gaps, particularly in digital and technology, must remain a key focus for government and it is welcome that this paper recognises the value that skilled workers from overseas can bring to helping improve the UK's skills base," he said. Under changes proposed to attract international students to the UK, the government said it would "improve the current offer" to those who have completed a degree who want to stay on in the UK to work after they have completed their studies by offering six months' post-study leave to all Master's students and Bachelor's students studying at an institution with degree-awarding powers. This is aimed at giving them more time to find permanent skilled work and to work temporarily during that period. "We will also allow for students studying a Bachelor's level or above to be able to apply to switch into the skilled workers route up to three months before the end of their course in the UK, and from outside of the UK for two years after their graduation," the White Paper notes. Universities UK International, the representative group for the country's higher education institutions which has been campaigning for a better post-study offer, said the proposals recognise the important contributions made by international students to the UK. "Allowing graduates to stay on for longer to find work in the UK sends the message that international students are welcome here, and we value the skills they bring. These changes will have a real, positive impact on the students who come here to study and their opportunities after graduating," said Vivienne Stern, Director of Universities UK International. However, the group added that it will continue to campaign for a longer two-year post-study work visa. As part of some of the more contentious aspects of the new immigration White Paper, the government will hold a consultation on a minimum salary requirement of 30,000 pounds for skilled migrants seeking five-year visas and low-skilled workers may be able to apply for short-term visas of up to a year. The document forms the basis for the Immigration and Social Security Coordination (EU Withdrawal) Bill, to be published on Thursday, which ends free movement for EU nationals and creates the legal framework for a future UK borders and immigration system after Brexit. It also creates parity in the way migrants can access the country's benefits system, which will apply equally to both EU and non-EU nationals. The new system will be implemented in a phased approach from 2021, following an extensive 12-month programme of engagement with businesses, stakeholders and the public, the Home Office said. While it does not make a specific reference to the ruling Conservative Party's manifesto pledge to bring immigration down to the tens of thousands annually, the government stressed that the target remains in place.

UK's post-Brexit visa strategy to benefit Indian students, professionals

British opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn faced calls to apologise on Wednesday after being accused of muttering "stupid woman" at Prime Minister Theresa May during a heated exchange over <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/theresa-mays-brexit-deal-is-dead-in-the-water-now-what-for-britain-177721">her delaying tactics on Brexit</a>.

But a spokesman for the Labour leader denied he used the phrase, which sparked uproar among ruling Conservative MPs in the House of Commons, insisting he had said "stupid people".

Corbyn mouthed the words after clashing with May over her decision to delay until January a Commons vote on her unpopular Brexit deal -- just weeks before Britain leaves the EU on March 29.

London and Brussels this week stepped up planning for a "no deal" scenario, and Corbyn warned during prime minister's questions on Wednesday that this would be "a disaster for our country".

He said that by delaying a vote by MPs, May was "recklessly running down the clock, all in a shameful attempt to make her own bad deal look like the lesser of two evils".

May hit back by mocking Corbyn's position on Brexit and describing as a pantomime his failure to call a vote of confidence in her government despite demands from his own MPs.

Footage of the "stupid" comment quickly went viral on social media, watched by MPs on their phones as they sat in the Commons chamber -- and one of them asked May what she thought.

"Everybody in this House, particularly in this 100th year of women getting the vote, should be encouraging women to come into this chamber and to stand in this chamber and should therefore use appropriate language in this chamber when they are referring to female members," she said.

Several Conservative MPs said the alleged comment was a reflection of abusive language faced by many female politicians and a culture of bullying in parliament that has become a focus for concern.

Some female Labour MPs also weighed in, with Stella Creasy tweeting: "This is not ok."

But Corbyn's spokesman said: "He's clear that he did not say stupid woman and has no time for any kind of misogynistic abuse."

He said the "stupid people" remark was a response to "the attempt to belittle what is being discussed" on Brexit, adding: "This is a national crisis."

Commons Speaker John Bercow said he did not see the incident himself but, if true, Corbyn would have to apologise in front of parliament.

In chaotic scenes, however, Bercow -- who has himself been accusing of bullying and using abusive language -- was shouted down as Conservative MPs rallied to May's defence.

Commons leader Andrea Leadsom, a government minister, even stood up to ask Bercow why he had not apologised for allegedly calling her a "stupid woman" earlier this year.

Bercow replied that the issue had been resolved at the time. He had admitted muttering "stupid" in an argument about scheduling of Commons business.

British opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn faced calls to apologise on Wednesday after being accused of muttering "stupid woman" at Prime Minister Theresa May during a heated exchange over her delaying tactics on Brexit.

British opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn faced calls to apologise on Wednesday after being accused of muttering "stupid woman" at Prime Minister Theresa May during a heated exchange over her delaying tactics on Brexit. But a spokesman for the Labour leader denied he used the phrase, which sparked uproar among ruling Conservative MPs in the House of Commons, insisting he had said "stupid people". Corbyn mouthed the words after clashing with May over her decision to delay until January a Commons vote on her unpopular Brexit deal -- just weeks before Britain leaves the EU on March 29. London and Brussels this week stepped up planning for a "no deal" scenario, and Corbyn warned during prime minister's questions on Wednesday that this would be "a disaster for our country". He said that by delaying a vote by MPs, May was "recklessly running down the clock, all in a shameful attempt to make her own bad deal look like the lesser of two evils". May hit back by mocking Corbyn's position on Brexit and describing as a pantomime his failure to call a vote of confidence in her government despite demands from his own MPs. Footage of the "stupid" comment quickly went viral on social media, watched by MPs on their phones as they sat in the Commons chamber -- and one of them asked May what she thought. "Everybody in this House, particularly in this 100th year of women getting the vote, should be encouraging women to come into this chamber and to stand in this chamber and should therefore use appropriate language in this chamber when they are referring to female members," she said. Several Conservative MPs said the alleged comment was a reflection of abusive language faced by many female politicians and a culture of bullying in parliament that has become a focus for concern. Some female Labour MPs also weighed in, with Stella Creasy tweeting: "This is not ok." But Corbyn's spokesman said: "He's clear that he did not say stupid woman and has no time for any kind of misogynistic abuse." He said the "stupid people" remark was a response to "the attempt to belittle what is being discussed" on Brexit, adding: "This is a national crisis." Commons Speaker John Bercow said he did not see the incident himself but, if true, Corbyn would have to apologise in front of parliament. In chaotic scenes, however, Bercow -- who has himself been accusing of bullying and using abusive language -- was shouted down as Conservative MPs rallied to May's defence. Commons leader Andrea Leadsom, a government minister, even stood up to ask Bercow why he had not apologised for allegedly calling her a "stupid woman" earlier this year. Bercow replied that the issue had been resolved at the time. He had admitted muttering "stupid" in an argument about scheduling of Commons business.

UK opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn allegedly calls PM Theresa May 'stupid woman' 

The makers of Scotch Whisky, Britain biggest food and drink export, said on Wednesday it was imperative that lawmakers work quickly to avoid crashing out of the European Union without a deal.

With Britain's parliament deadlocked, business lobbies have urged Prime Minister Theresa May's government to avoid the chaos expected if Britain abruptly exits the EU with no transition period on March 29.

"It is imperative that the government and parliamentarians work together constructively and quickly to find a way forward which provides clarity for businesses and employees and avoids a no-deal Brexit," a spokesman for the Scotch Whisky Association said.

Whisky exports were worth 4.5 billion pounds ($5.7 billion) to Britain in 2017, its biggest food and drink export ahead of salmon, chocolate and cheese.

"A no-deal Brexit would damage our industry by forcing cost and complexity into the production and export of Scotch whisky," the spokesman said.

The makers of Scotch Whisky, Britain biggest food and drink export, said on Wednesday it was imperative that lawmakers work quickly to avoid crashing out of the European Union without a deal.

The makers of Scotch Whisky, Britain biggest food and drink export, said on Wednesday it was imperative that lawmakers work quickly to avoid crashing out of the European Union without a deal. With Britain's parliament deadlocked, business lobbies have urged Prime Minister Theresa May's government to avoid the chaos expected if Britain abruptly exits the EU with no transition period on March 29. "It is imperative that the government and parliamentarians work together constructively and quickly to find a way forward which provides clarity for businesses and employees and avoids a no-deal Brexit," a spokesman for the Scotch Whisky Association said. Whisky exports were worth 4.5 billion pounds ($5.7 billion) to Britain in 2017, its biggest food and drink export ahead of salmon, chocolate and cheese. "A no-deal Brexit would damage our industry by forcing cost and complexity into the production and export of Scotch whisky," the spokesman said.

Scotch whisky makers tell UK politicians: Avoid no-deal Brexit

Britain will publishe&nbsp;proposals for an EU immigration crackdown after Brexit on Wednesday as <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uk-puts-3500-soldiers-on-standby-for-no-deal-brexit-185166">business groups warn the economy is not ready for Britain to crash out of the European Union</a> without a divorce agreement in place.

Home Secretary Sajid Javid said visas would be introduced for EU nationals arriving after Britain leaves the bloc and the new system would be based on skills, not nationality, putting EU and non-EU &nbsp;citizens on the same footing.

"It will be a system that will bring net migration down to more sustainable levels," he told BBC radio, although he said there was "no specific target" for the reduction.

He said he hoped the new measures would put more pressure on employers "to look at the domestic workforce first".

'Misguided' approach to immigration 
Javid did not commit to an annual salary threshold for EU immigrants -- a highly contested proposal -- but said it could be "£30,000 (33,000 euros, $38,000) or thereabouts".

He said the threshold could be lowered to encourage foreign students to stay and work in the UK and for certain parts of the economy in which a labour shortage could be proven.

Many employers, including the National Health Service, have warned that £30,000 is too high and will severely limit their ability to hire EU nationals such as nurses.

The immigration proposals are aimed at winning over Brexit hardliners who have resisted voting in favour of the deal that Prime Minister Theresa May has struck with EU leaders.

But they will cause anger in parts of Britain, such as London, that have benefited from EU immigration.

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said the government's approach was "misguided" and "risks doing profound damage to growth, jobs and communities across London and the UK".

Migration levels already falling 
May has vowed to end free movement of people from Europe, saying that this was one of the main reasons that Britons voted to leave the European Union in a 2016 referendum.

Immigration levels have already fallen since the referendum.

Net migration to Britain was around 280,000 last year, a decrease from levels of more than 300,000 in 2014 and 2015.

The announcement came as May prepared to hold her final question and answer session of the year in parliament, where she will face more trenchant criticism of her decision to delay a parliamentary vote on her Brexit deal.

The main opposition Labour Party has asked for a no confidence motion against May, while smaller groups including the Scottish National Party have requested a similar vote against the government as a whole.

Neither motion is expected to be allowed to come to a vote.

May survived a separate no-confidence vote tabled by members of her own Conservative Party last week but she came out of the process badly bruised after more than a third of her parliamentary party opted to oust her.

Some hardline Conservative MPs have since said they could vote in favour of May's deal when it comes before parliament next month, although experts say the vote is still likely to go against the prime minister.

Businesses 'watching in horror' 
The deadlock in Westminster has raised the prospects of either a second referendum or of a no-deal Brexit when the negotiating time runs out on March 29 next year.

The government on Tuesday announced no-deal plans, which include drastic measures such as stockpiling imported chemicals to ensure safe drinking water and special flights from Europe to ensure continued supply of vital medicine.

The prospect of such an exit has caused widespread concern.

Britain's five leading business associations on Wednesday warned that companies have been "watching in horror as politicians have focused on factional disputes rather than practical steps that business needs to move forward".

The group, which included the Confederation of British Industry big business lobby and the Federation of Small Businesses, said: "The lack of progress in Westminster means the risk of a no-deal Brexit is rising". 
&nbsp;

Britain will publishe proposals for an EU immigration crackdown after Brexit on Wednesday as business groups warn the economy is not ready for Britain to crash out of the European Union without a divorce agreement in place.

Britain will publishe proposals for an EU immigration crackdown after Brexit on Wednesday as business groups warn the economy is not ready for Britain to crash out of the European Union without a divorce agreement in place. Home Secretary Sajid Javid said visas would be introduced for EU nationals arriving after Britain leaves the bloc and the new system would be based on skills, not nationality, putting EU and non-EU citizens on the same footing. "It will be a system that will bring net migration down to more sustainable levels," he told BBC radio, although he said there was "no specific target" for the reduction. He said he hoped the new measures would put more pressure on employers "to look at the domestic workforce first". 'Misguided' approach to immigration Javid did not commit to an annual salary threshold for EU immigrants -- a highly contested proposal -- but said it could be "£30,000 (33,000 euros, $38,000) or thereabouts". He said the threshold could be lowered to encourage foreign students to stay and work in the UK and for certain parts of the economy in which a labour shortage could be proven. Many employers, including the National Health Service, have warned that £30,000 is too high and will severely limit their ability to hire EU nationals such as nurses. The immigration proposals are aimed at winning over Brexit hardliners who have resisted voting in favour of the deal that Prime Minister Theresa May has struck with EU leaders. But they will cause anger in parts of Britain, such as London, that have benefited from EU immigration. Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said the government's approach was "misguided" and "risks doing profound damage to growth, jobs and communities across London and the UK". Migration levels already falling May has vowed to end free movement of people from Europe, saying that this was one of the main reasons that Britons voted to leave the European Union in a 2016 referendum. Immigration levels have already fallen since the referendum. Net migration to Britain was around 280,000 last year, a decrease from levels of more than 300,000 in 2014 and 2015. The announcement came as May prepared to hold her final question and answer session of the year in parliament, where she will face more trenchant criticism of her decision to delay a parliamentary vote on her Brexit deal. The main opposition Labour Party has asked for a no confidence motion against May, while smaller groups including the Scottish National Party have requested a similar vote against the government as a whole. Neither motion is expected to be allowed to come to a vote. May survived a separate no-confidence vote tabled by members of her own Conservative Party last week but she came out of the process badly bruised after more than a third of her parliamentary party opted to oust her. Some hardline Conservative MPs have since said they could vote in favour of May's deal when it comes before parliament next month, although experts say the vote is still likely to go against the prime minister. Businesses 'watching in horror' The deadlock in Westminster has raised the prospects of either a second referendum or of a no-deal Brexit when the negotiating time runs out on March 29 next year. The government on Tuesday announced no-deal plans, which include drastic measures such as stockpiling imported chemicals to ensure safe drinking water and special flights from Europe to ensure continued supply of vital medicine. The prospect of such an exit has caused widespread concern. Britain's five leading business associations on Wednesday warned that companies have been "watching in horror as politicians have focused on factional disputes rather than practical steps that business needs to move forward". The group, which included the Confederation of British Industry big business lobby and the Federation of Small Businesses, said: "The lack of progress in Westminster means the risk of a no-deal Brexit is rising".

Brexit will bring down immigration but there is no 'specific target': British Home Secretary

UK Prime Minister Theresa May on December 12 survived a confidence vote over Brexit deal by her own MPs, but lost the support of her colleagues. This was the latest controversy to have hit the British government after the country's shock decision to exit the European Union (EU), popularly known as Brexit.

May won the backing of 200 Conservative lawmakers, but 117 voted to oust her.

The referendum to leave the EU was carried out across Britan in 2016, but since then has seen resignations of many British ministers, claimed the job of a prime minister, and that of a second one, almost!

The UK triggered Article 50 of the Treaty of Lisbon in March last year to formally severe ties with the EU, but the deal prepared by the government of the country has not been able to pass the test of EU leaders. The two-year period of Article 50 for Britain to leave the EU will end on March 2019, but the government is still working, rather frantically, negotiating the terms of the divorce with the bloc of 28 countries.

Being part of the European Union means being a part of a group of countries which trade together, use its own currency, legislate together, and most importantly, avoid going to war with each other.

Britain's exit, or Brexit, means the UK will be devoid of all these things and the restriction of movement of goods will impact its economy adversely. The EU, at several juncture on the road to Brexit, has warned the UK of consequences, but after the June, 2016 vote, the UK is going ahead with the separation.

Early signs are already visible on the British economy since the vote. The overall performance of the UK economy among the G7 nations has tailed off, inflation has increased leading to fall of wage growth and less saving by the households. Many companies are also reluctant to invest in the UK, given the anxious investor sentiment.

Soon after the referendum, David Cameron resigned as prime minister as he wanted Britain to stay with the EU. Later, Brexit campaigner Boris Johnson withdrew at the last minute which made Theresa May the new prime minister of United Kingdom.

Britain and the EU have so far reached an outline agreement on three key areas of the divorce: Britain's financial settlement to the union, citizens' rights and the Irish border. A bill enacting the decision to leave the EU became law on June 26, 2018.

What happens now?

Despite the withdrawal agreement and statement on future relations with the EU, many in Britain are quietly talking of a second referendum. They want the public to be given a final say in whether the UK should operate on its own with the European Union. Theresa May is against the second referendum, and has said that her government will hold a vote in Parliament on January 21 next year on Britain's post-Brexit future.

UK Prime Minister Theresa May on December 12 survived a confidence vote over Brexit deal by her own MPs, but lost the support of her colleagues. This was the latest controversy to have hit the British government after the country's shock decision to exit the European Union (EU), popularly known as Brexit.

UK Prime Minister Theresa May on December 12 survived a confidence vote over Brexit deal by her own MPs, but lost the support of her colleagues. This was the latest controversy to have hit the British government after the country's shock decision to exit the European Union (EU), popularly known as Brexit. May won the backing of 200 Conservative lawmakers, but 117 voted to oust her. The referendum to leave the EU was carried out across Britan in 2016, but since then has seen resignations of many British ministers, claimed the job of a prime minister, and that of a second one, almost! The UK triggered Article 50 of the Treaty of Lisbon in March last year to formally severe ties with the EU, but the deal prepared by the government of the country has not been able to pass the test of EU leaders. The two-year period of Article 50 for Britain to leave the EU will end on March 2019, but the government is still working, rather frantically, negotiating the terms of the divorce with the bloc of 28 countries. Being part of the European Union means being a part of a group of countries which trade together, use its own currency, legislate together, and most importantly, avoid going to war with each other. Britain's exit, or Brexit, means the UK will be devoid of all these things and the restriction of movement of goods will impact its economy adversely. The EU, at several juncture on the road to Brexit, has warned the UK of consequences, but after the June, 2016 vote, the UK is going ahead with the separation. Early signs are already visible on the British economy since the vote. The overall performance of the UK economy among the G7 nations has tailed off, inflation has increased leading to fall of wage growth and less saving by the households. Many companies are also reluctant to invest in the UK, given the anxious investor sentiment. Soon after the referendum, David Cameron resigned as prime minister as he wanted Britain to stay with the EU. Later, Brexit campaigner Boris Johnson withdrew at the last minute which made Theresa May the new prime minister of United Kingdom. Britain and the EU have so far reached an outline agreement on three key areas of the divorce: Britain's financial settlement to the union, citizens' rights and the Irish border. A bill enacting the decision to leave the EU became law on June 26, 2018. What happens now? Despite the withdrawal agreement and statement on future relations with the EU, many in Britain are quietly talking of a second referendum. They want the public to be given a final say in whether the UK should operate on its own with the European Union. Theresa May is against the second referendum, and has said that her government will hold a vote in Parliament on January 21 next year on Britain's post-Brexit future.

How Brexit saga unfolded in 2018

British <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/what-next-for-brexit-four-main-scenarios-184840">ministers agreed Tuesday to make no-deal Brexit planning "an operational priority"</a> amid continued opposition to Prime Minister Theresa's May draft divorce deal, just 14 weeks before the country leaves the EU.

Following a meeting of her cabinet -- the last before parliament breaks for the Christmas/New Year break -- Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson said around 3,500 troops would be on stand-by to help deal with "any contingencies" from a no-deal outcome.

But Brexit Secretary Steve Barclay said ministers still hoped to secure backing for May's agreement in a House of Commons vote delayed until next month.

He added that any responsible government would intensify preparations for the "default option" of leaving the European Union without a deal on March 29 next year.

"We agreed that preparing for no deal will be an operational priority within government," Barclay said. "But our overall priority remains to secure a deal."

He said departments would step up their advice to businesses on how best to prepare for the scenario, which many fear could be catastrophic for the British economy.

Businesses will be provided with a 100-plus page online preparation pack and emails will be sent to 80,000 of those most likely to be impacted over the next few days, according to Downing Street.

- Divisions - 
May's cabinet is divided between ministers who want the government to embrace a no-deal outcome and those who favour parliament having a final say in a series of votes on potential scenarios for Brexit.

One option is the prime minister's own Brexit deal, but that is hanging by a thread after she was forced to pull a vote on it last week in the face of huge opposition from within her own Conservative Party.

Earlier Tuesday, Downing Street reportedly blocked opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn's request Monday for a non-binding no-confidence motion in May.

That had followed her telling MPs they will not get to vote on her deal this week, but instead in the week beginning January 14.

The delay prompted accusations she was stalling to increase pressure on MPs to back the plan -- and fresh calls for Labour to table a binding no-confidence vote against the whole government.

However, such a move faces likely defeat after Conservative Brexit hardliners and the Democratic Unionist Party, which props up her government, both said they would back May.

- 'Running down the clock' - 
May insisted Monday that she was continuing to seek "assurances" from the EU over elements of her plan, although EU officials said no meetings were planned.

The postponed vote has left members of her own party and Labour opposition politicians infuriated.

"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.

May is also facing calls for a second referendum to resolve the impasse, with dozens of MPs from all sides now supporting another poll and reports that May's officials are also considering the possibility.

But the prime minister argued that this would betray the 2016 Brexit referendum result and undermine public confidence in politics.

"Let us not break faith with the British people by trying to stage another referendum," she told parliament on Monday.

"Another vote... would do irreparable damage to the integrity of our politics," May said, adding that it would also &nbsp;"likely leave us no further forward".

British ministers agreed Tuesday to make no-deal Brexit planning "an operational priority" amid continued opposition to Prime Minister Theresa's May draft divorce deal, just 14 weeks before the country leaves the EU.

British ministers agreed Tuesday to make no-deal Brexit planning "an operational priority" amid continued opposition to Prime Minister Theresa's May draft divorce deal, just 14 weeks before the country leaves the EU. Following a meeting of her cabinet -- the last before parliament breaks for the Christmas/New Year break -- Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson said around 3,500 troops would be on stand-by to help deal with "any contingencies" from a no-deal outcome. But Brexit Secretary Steve Barclay said ministers still hoped to secure backing for May's agreement in a House of Commons vote delayed until next month. He added that any responsible government would intensify preparations for the "default option" of leaving the European Union without a deal on March 29 next year. "We agreed that preparing for no deal will be an operational priority within government," Barclay said. "But our overall priority remains to secure a deal." He said departments would step up their advice to businesses on how best to prepare for the scenario, which many fear could be catastrophic for the British economy. Businesses will be provided with a 100-plus page online preparation pack and emails will be sent to 80,000 of those most likely to be impacted over the next few days, according to Downing Street. - Divisions - May's cabinet is divided between ministers who want the government to embrace a no-deal outcome and those who favour parliament having a final say in a series of votes on potential scenarios for Brexit. One option is the prime minister's own Brexit deal, but that is hanging by a thread after she was forced to pull a vote on it last week in the face of huge opposition from within her own Conservative Party. Earlier Tuesday, Downing Street reportedly blocked opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn's request Monday for a non-binding no-confidence motion in May. That had followed her telling MPs they will not get to vote on her deal this week, but instead in the week beginning January 14. The delay prompted accusations she was stalling to increase pressure on MPs to back the plan -- and fresh calls for Labour to table a binding no-confidence vote against the whole government. However, such a move faces likely defeat after Conservative Brexit hardliners and the Democratic Unionist Party, which props up her government, both said they would back May. - 'Running down the clock' - May insisted Monday that she was continuing to seek "assurances" from the EU over elements of her plan, although EU officials said no meetings were planned. The postponed vote has left members of her own party and Labour opposition politicians infuriated. "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. May is also facing calls for a second referendum to resolve the impasse, with dozens of MPs from all sides now supporting another poll and reports that May's officials are also considering the possibility. But the prime minister argued that this would betray the 2016 Brexit referendum result and undermine public confidence in politics. "Let us not break faith with the British people by trying to stage another referendum," she told parliament on Monday. "Another vote... would do irreparable damage to the integrity of our politics," May said, adding that it would also "likely leave us no further forward".

UK puts 3,500 soldiers on standby for no-deal Brexit

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.

 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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.

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