Britain and the European Union are near touching distance of a Brexit deal which could be clinched in the next 24 to 48 hours, Prime Minister Theresa May's de facto deputy said on Tuesday.

"We're not quite there yet," Cabinet Office Minister David Lidington told BBC radio. "We are almost within touching distance now. The PM has said it can't be a deal at any price."

Asked if he was saying it was possible there could be a deal in the next 24 or 48 hours, he said: "Still possible but not at all definite, I think pretty much sums it up. Cautiously optimistic."

While officials choreograph the biggest divorce deal in EU history, it remains unclear whether May can get a deal passed by parliament where opponents have warned she is betraying Brexit by signing up the United Kingdom to EU subjugation.

Sterling jumped half a percent to as high as US $1.2917 on Lidington's comments.

The EU wants to get agreement on a draft deal by the end of Wednesday at the latest if there is to be a summit this month to approve it. Some EU diplomats said they didn't have high hopes of a breakthrough this week.

The EU and the United Kingdom need an agreement to keep trade flowing between the world's biggest trading bloc and the fifth largest national economy.

But May has struggled to untangle nearly 46 years of membership without damaging trade or upsetting the lawmakers who will ultimately decide the fate of any deal she can secure.

'TEMPORARY AND NOT INDEFINITE'

With under five months until Britain leaves the EU, the so-called Northern Irish backstop is the main outstanding issue.

It is an insurance policy to avoid a return to controls on the border between the British province of Northern Ireland and EU member Ireland if a future trading relationship is not agreed in time.

Asked if the UK could be trapped in a backstop against its will, Lidington said: "The prime minister has said again and again, if the backstop were ever to be used - we don't want it to be used - ... it's clearly got to be something that would be temporary and not indefinite."

But the intricacies of any deal, hammered out in late night sessions at the European Commission's modernist Berlaymont building in Brussels, are unlikely to change the growing opposition to May.

By seeking to leave the EU while preserving the closest possible ties, May's compromise plan has upset Brexiteers, pro-Europeans, Scottish nationalists, the Northern Irish party that props up her government, and some of her own ministers.

Brexit Secretary Dominic Raab said on Tuesday he was confident of progress in talks, though he gave no further details.

Lidington, who voted to stay in the EU in the 2016 referendum, declined to say whether the proposed deal would make the United Kingdom wealthier or poorer, saying that the people had decided to leave the EU.

Asked whether Britain would have to start preparing in earnest for a "no-deal" Brexit if an agreement were not clinched by the end of Wednesday, as newspapers have reported, he said: "I'm not going to ascribe days to particular actions."

"The end of Wednesday is important but what we've been doing in government in the two years since the referendum is to take forward contingency planning against all eventualities," he said. "We both hope and expect a deal will be negotiated."

Britain and the European Union are near touching distance of a Brexit deal which could be clinched in the next 24 to 48 hours, Prime Minister Theresa May's de facto deputy said on Tuesday.

Britain and the European Union are near touching distance of a Brexit deal which could be clinched in the next 24 to 48 hours, Prime Minister Theresa May's de facto deputy said on Tuesday. "We're not quite there yet," Cabinet Office Minister David Lidington told BBC radio. "We are almost within touching distance now. The PM has said it can't be a deal at any price." Asked if he was saying it was possible there could be a deal in the next 24 or 48 hours, he said: "Still possible but not at all definite, I think pretty much sums it up. Cautiously optimistic." While officials choreograph the biggest divorce deal in EU history, it remains unclear whether May can get a deal passed by parliament where opponents have warned she is betraying Brexit by signing up the United Kingdom to EU subjugation. Sterling jumped half a percent to as high as US $1.2917 on Lidington's comments. The EU wants to get agreement on a draft deal by the end of Wednesday at the latest if there is to be a summit this month to approve it. Some EU diplomats said they didn't have high hopes of a breakthrough this week. The EU and the United Kingdom need an agreement to keep trade flowing between the world's biggest trading bloc and the fifth largest national economy. But May has struggled to untangle nearly 46 years of membership without damaging trade or upsetting the lawmakers who will ultimately decide the fate of any deal she can secure. 'TEMPORARY AND NOT INDEFINITE' With under five months until Britain leaves the EU, the so-called Northern Irish backstop is the main outstanding issue. It is an insurance policy to avoid a return to controls on the border between the British province of Northern Ireland and EU member Ireland if a future trading relationship is not agreed in time. Asked if the UK could be trapped in a backstop against its will, Lidington said: "The prime minister has said again and again, if the backstop were ever to be used - we don't want it to be used - ... it's clearly got to be something that would be temporary and not indefinite." But the intricacies of any deal, hammered out in late night sessions at the European Commission's modernist Berlaymont building in Brussels, are unlikely to change the growing opposition to May. By seeking to leave the EU while preserving the closest possible ties, May's compromise plan has upset Brexiteers, pro-Europeans, Scottish nationalists, the Northern Irish party that props up her government, and some of her own ministers. Brexit Secretary Dominic Raab said on Tuesday he was confident of progress in talks, though he gave no further details. Lidington, who voted to stay in the EU in the 2016 referendum, declined to say whether the proposed deal would make the United Kingdom wealthier or poorer, saying that the people had decided to leave the EU. Asked whether Britain would have to start preparing in earnest for a "no-deal" Brexit if an agreement were not clinched by the end of Wednesday, as newspapers have reported, he said: "I'm not going to ascribe days to particular actions." "The end of Wednesday is important but what we've been doing in government in the two years since the referendum is to take forward contingency planning against all eventualities," he said. "We both hope and expect a deal will be negotiated."

Brexit deal possible in next 24-48 hours, May's deputy says

The European Union's chief Brexit negotiator warned ministers from the other 27 member states on Monday that no deal has been sealed on Britain's departure from the bloc.

"Michel Barnier explained that intense negotiating efforts continue, but an agreement has not been reached yet," the European Council, which represents the member states, said in a statement.

"Some key issues remain under discussion, in particular a solution to avoid a hard border between Ireland and Northern Ireland."

EU ministers voiced caution Monday about the chances of striking a rapid&nbsp;Brexit&nbsp;deal, at the start of another week billed as crucial for an agreement.

Ministers from the other 27 member states were to be briefed by EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier as time runs down before Britain's withdrawal on March 29.

"We have time but not so much," Belgian Foreign Minister Didier Reynders told reporters as he arrived for talks with fellow EU ministers in Brussels.

"It's difficult to make real progress, but before Christmas I'm hoping it's possible," Reynders said, as the EU awaits a "positive signal" from London.

The European Union's chief Brexit negotiator warned ministers from the other 27 member states on Monday that no deal has been sealed on Britain's departure from the bloc.

The European Union's chief Brexit negotiator warned ministers from the other 27 member states on Monday that no deal has been sealed on Britain's departure from the bloc. "Michel Barnier explained that intense negotiating efforts continue, but an agreement has not been reached yet," the European Council, which represents the member states, said in a statement. "Some key issues remain under discussion, in particular a solution to avoid a hard border between Ireland and Northern Ireland." EU ministers voiced caution Monday about the chances of striking a rapid Brexit deal, at the start of another week billed as crucial for an agreement. Ministers from the other 27 member states were to be briefed by EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier as time runs down before Britain's withdrawal on March 29. "We have time but not so much," Belgian Foreign Minister Didier Reynders told reporters as he arrived for talks with fellow EU ministers in Brussels. "It's difficult to make real progress, but before Christmas I'm hoping it's possible," Reynders said, as the EU awaits a "positive signal" from London.

EU ministers told no Brexit deal yet: Official

Britain's armed forces are making contingency plans for how they could support the country if Britain leaves the European Union without a deal, senior British defence officials said on Sunday.

Asked what role the armed forces could play if there was a 'no deal' Brexit, British defence minister Tobias Ellwood said: "The armed forces stand ready to support Britain on a practical basis"

"There are contingency plans being made, there are discussions being held behind the scenes as to what support our armed forces will do," Ellwood said on the 'Ridge on Sunday' television programme.

"With the transition from Brexit, if there is a requirement to provide assistance we're looking right across the full spectrum of requirements to make sure that we are prepared."

Earlier, the chief of Britain's defence staff General Sir Nicholas Carter said the armed forces were making "sensible" contingency plans on Brexit and other issues.

Asked if the army was making preparations for a no deal Brexit, Carter said: "What we always do is make sensible contingency plans for all sorts of eventualities .... at this stage, I think people are confident there will be a deal, if there's not one then we stand ready to help in any way we can."

Britain's armed forces are making contingency plans for how they could support the country if Britain leaves the European Union without a deal, senior British defence officials said on Sunday.

Britain's armed forces are making contingency plans for how they could support the country if Britain leaves the European Union without a deal, senior British defence officials said on Sunday. Asked what role the armed forces could play if there was a 'no deal' Brexit, British defence minister Tobias Ellwood said: "The armed forces stand ready to support Britain on a practical basis" "There are contingency plans being made, there are discussions being held behind the scenes as to what support our armed forces will do," Ellwood said on the 'Ridge on Sunday' television programme. "With the transition from Brexit, if there is a requirement to provide assistance we're looking right across the full spectrum of requirements to make sure that we are prepared." Earlier, the chief of Britain's defence staff General Sir Nicholas Carter said the armed forces were making "sensible" contingency plans on Brexit and other issues. Asked if the army was making preparations for a no deal Brexit, Carter said: "What we always do is make sensible contingency plans for all sorts of eventualities .... at this stage, I think people are confident there will be a deal, if there's not one then we stand ready to help in any way we can."

Britain's armed forces making contingency plans for 'no deal' Brexit: Defence officials

Four British ministers who back remaining in the European Union are on the verge of quitting Theresa May's government over Brexit, the Sunday Times reported, as pressures built on the prime minister from all sides.&nbsp;

The newspaper also said that the European Union had rejected May's plan for an independent mechanism to oversee Britain's departure from any temporary customs arrangement it agrees. The newspaper sourced the development to British sources, and not sources in the EU team.

May is trying to hammer out the final details of the British divorce deal but the talks have become stuck over how the two sides can prevent a hard border from being required in Ireland.

Britain has proposed a UK-wide temporary customs arrangement with the EU to resolve the issue but Brexiteers in her party want London to have the final say on when that arrangement would end, to prevent it from being tied indefinitely to the bloc.&nbsp;

A senior cabinet minister was quoted in the paper as saying: "This is the moment she has to face down Brussels and make it clear to them that they need to compromise, or we will leave without a deal."

An EU diplomat told Reuters earlier on Saturday that they were cautiously hopeful that an EU summit could happen in November to endorse the deal but that the volatile situation in Britain made it very difficult to predict.&nbsp;

Other EU diplomats said several issues remained unresolved.&nbsp;

May is expected to meet with her cabinet this week to set out her plans for the divorce deal. She was dealt a blow on Friday when junior minister Jo Johnston, who voted to remain in the EU in the 2016 referendum, quit over her plan.

To add to the pressure, a leading member of a group of Brexiteer lawmakers in parliament joined with the Brexit spokesman for the small Northern Irish party that props up May`s party in government to warn that they could not vote for the deal as it currently stands.

Steve Baker, a former junior Brexit minister who resigned over May's so-called Chequers proposals on Brexit, and Sammy Wilson of the DUP wrote in the

Sunday Telegraph newspaper that they could not back a deal if it treated Northern Ireland differently from the rest of the country.&nbsp;

May had been expected to hold a vote in parliament on her deal before the end of the year.&nbsp;

A spokeswoman for May`s Downing Street office said the talks were going down to the wire. "The prime minister has always said these negotiations are tough and toughest in the final stages.&nbsp;

"The prime minister has told colleagues this week we should aim to conclude the withdrawal agreement as soon as possible but we will not do that at any cost." (Reporting by Kate Holton; editing by David Stamp and Marguerita Choy) 
&nbsp;

Four British ministers who back remaining in the European Union are on the verge of quitting Theresa May's government over Brexit, the Sunday Times reported, as pressures built on the prime minister from all sides.

Four British ministers who back remaining in the European Union are on the verge of quitting Theresa May's government over Brexit, the Sunday Times reported, as pressures built on the prime minister from all sides. The newspaper also said that the European Union had rejected May's plan for an independent mechanism to oversee Britain's departure from any temporary customs arrangement it agrees. The newspaper sourced the development to British sources, and not sources in the EU team. May is trying to hammer out the final details of the British divorce deal but the talks have become stuck over how the two sides can prevent a hard border from being required in Ireland. Britain has proposed a UK-wide temporary customs arrangement with the EU to resolve the issue but Brexiteers in her party want London to have the final say on when that arrangement would end, to prevent it from being tied indefinitely to the bloc. A senior cabinet minister was quoted in the paper as saying: "This is the moment she has to face down Brussels and make it clear to them that they need to compromise, or we will leave without a deal." An EU diplomat told Reuters earlier on Saturday that they were cautiously hopeful that an EU summit could happen in November to endorse the deal but that the volatile situation in Britain made it very difficult to predict. Other EU diplomats said several issues remained unresolved. May is expected to meet with her cabinet this week to set out her plans for the divorce deal. She was dealt a blow on Friday when junior minister Jo Johnston, who voted to remain in the EU in the 2016 referendum, quit over her plan. To add to the pressure, a leading member of a group of Brexiteer lawmakers in parliament joined with the Brexit spokesman for the small Northern Irish party that props up May`s party in government to warn that they could not vote for the deal as it currently stands. Steve Baker, a former junior Brexit minister who resigned over May's so-called Chequers proposals on Brexit, and Sammy Wilson of the DUP wrote in the Sunday Telegraph newspaper that they could not back a deal if it treated Northern Ireland differently from the rest of the country. May had been expected to hold a vote in parliament on her deal before the end of the year. A spokeswoman for May`s Downing Street office said the talks were going down to the wire. "The prime minister has always said these negotiations are tough and toughest in the final stages. "The prime minister has told colleagues this week we should aim to conclude the withdrawal agreement as soon as possible but we will not do that at any cost." (Reporting by Kate Holton; editing by David Stamp and Marguerita Choy)

Four UK ministers on verge of quitting Theresa May's government over Brexit

Jo Johnson, the younger brother of Boris, resigned from British Prime Minister Theresa May`s government on Friday, calling in a withering critique for another referendum to avoid her Brexit plans unleashing Britain`s greatest crisis since World War Two.

Quitting as a junior transport minister, Johnson called May`s Brexit plans delusional and said he could not vote for the deal she is expected to unveil in parliament within weeks.

"Britain stands on the brink of the greatest crisis since the Second World War," said Johnson, a former Financial Times journalist who voted to stay in the EU in the 2016 referendum.

Johnson, 46, called it the worst failure of statecraft since the 1956 Suez canal crisis, in which Britain was humiliatingly forced by the United States to withdraw its troops from Egypt.

"To present the nation with a choice between two deeply unattractive outcomes, vassalage and chaos, is a failure of British statecraft on a scale unseen since the Suez crisis," he said.&nbsp;

"Given that the reality of Brexit has turned out to be so far from what was once promised, the democratic thing to do is to give the public the final say," he added.

Johnson`s criticism underscored the travails that May faces in getting any Brexit divorce deal, which London and Brussels say is 95 per cent done, approved by her own fractious party.

The pound sank to a day`s low beneath $1.30 on the resignation and also fell against the euro. It was unclear whether others would follow Johnson out of government.&nbsp;

In the June 2016 referendum, 17.4 million voters, or 51.9 per cent, backed leaving the EU while 16.1 million, or 48.1 per cent, backed staying.&nbsp;

Johnson wants a three-way referendum giving the people a choice between remaining in the EU, May`s deal and no deal.

May`s office rejected his call, saying Britain would not hold a second referendum on its EU membership "under any circumstances".

"United in dismay"

Johnson is the 14th minister to have resigned from the government since November last year and the most senior to have called for another referendum in his leaving statement.

His resignation was published after May spent much of the day in France and Belgium, laying wreaths alongside fellow leaders to mark the centenary of the end of World War One.&nbsp;

As negotiations with Brussels enter their final fraught stage, May’s approach is under fire from all sides of the divisive Brexit debate.&nbsp;

Many politicians are unhappy with her compromise plans to maintain the free trade of goods with the EU, which they say will leave Britain subject to decisions in Brussels without any input.

In his 1,600-word resignation statement, Johnson said May`s proposed deal would leave Britain in a "far worse" negotiating position than now, adding he also knew from his work at the Department of Transport how painful a "no deal" Brexit would be.

Boris Johnson, a leading supporter of Brexit who quit as foreign secretary in July, praised his brother`s decision, saying they were "united in dismay" - despite their opposing views on Brexit - over May`s handling of the negotiations.

May is expected to hold a cabinet meeting later this month in the hope of securing ministers` support for her negotiating stance and hopes to strike an exit deal with the EU in the next few weeks.

Compounding May`s problems on Friday, the Northern Irish party that props up her minority government cast her Brexit negotiation as a betrayal and said it could not support any deal that divided the United Kingdom.

The Democratic Unionist Party interpreted a promise made by May in a letter that she would never let a division of the UK "come into force" as an admission that such a clause would be included in a final deal.

As campaigners step up pressure on the government calling for the public to be given another say on Brexit, the opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn dashed campaigners` hopes he could back another referendum.&nbsp;

Asked by German magazine Der Spiegel if he would stop Brexit if he could, Corbyn said: "We can`t stop it. The referendum took place....What we can do is recognise the reasons why people voted leave."

Jo Johnson, the younger brother of Boris, resigned from British Prime Minister Theresa May`s government on Friday, calling in a withering critique for another referendum to avoid her Brexit plans unleashing Britain`s greatest crisis since World War Two.

Jo Johnson, the younger brother of Boris, resigned from British Prime Minister Theresa May`s government on Friday, calling in a withering critique for another referendum to avoid her Brexit plans unleashing Britain`s greatest crisis since World War Two. Quitting as a junior transport minister, Johnson called May`s Brexit plans delusional and said he could not vote for the deal she is expected to unveil in parliament within weeks. "Britain stands on the brink of the greatest crisis since the Second World War," said Johnson, a former Financial Times journalist who voted to stay in the EU in the 2016 referendum. Johnson, 46, called it the worst failure of statecraft since the 1956 Suez canal crisis, in which Britain was humiliatingly forced by the United States to withdraw its troops from Egypt. "To present the nation with a choice between two deeply unattractive outcomes, vassalage and chaos, is a failure of British statecraft on a scale unseen since the Suez crisis," he said. "Given that the reality of Brexit has turned out to be so far from what was once promised, the democratic thing to do is to give the public the final say," he added. Johnson`s criticism underscored the travails that May faces in getting any Brexit divorce deal, which London and Brussels say is 95 per cent done, approved by her own fractious party. The pound sank to a day`s low beneath $1.30 on the resignation and also fell against the euro. It was unclear whether others would follow Johnson out of government. In the June 2016 referendum, 17.4 million voters, or 51.9 per cent, backed leaving the EU while 16.1 million, or 48.1 per cent, backed staying. Johnson wants a three-way referendum giving the people a choice between remaining in the EU, May`s deal and no deal. May`s office rejected his call, saying Britain would not hold a second referendum on its EU membership "under any circumstances". "United in dismay" Johnson is the 14th minister to have resigned from the government since November last year and the most senior to have called for another referendum in his leaving statement. His resignation was published after May spent much of the day in France and Belgium, laying wreaths alongside fellow leaders to mark the centenary of the end of World War One. As negotiations with Brussels enter their final fraught stage, May’s approach is under fire from all sides of the divisive Brexit debate. Many politicians are unhappy with her compromise plans to maintain the free trade of goods with the EU, which they say will leave Britain subject to decisions in Brussels without any input. In his 1,600-word resignation statement, Johnson said May`s proposed deal would leave Britain in a "far worse" negotiating position than now, adding he also knew from his work at the Department of Transport how painful a "no deal" Brexit would be. Boris Johnson, a leading supporter of Brexit who quit as foreign secretary in July, praised his brother`s decision, saying they were "united in dismay" - despite their opposing views on Brexit - over May`s handling of the negotiations. May is expected to hold a cabinet meeting later this month in the hope of securing ministers` support for her negotiating stance and hopes to strike an exit deal with the EU in the next few weeks. Compounding May`s problems on Friday, the Northern Irish party that props up her minority government cast her Brexit negotiation as a betrayal and said it could not support any deal that divided the United Kingdom. The Democratic Unionist Party interpreted a promise made by May in a letter that she would never let a division of the UK "come into force" as an admission that such a clause would be included in a final deal. As campaigners step up pressure on the government calling for the public to be given another say on Brexit, the opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn dashed campaigners` hopes he could back another referendum. Asked by German magazine Der Spiegel if he would stop Brexit if he could, Corbyn said: "We can`t stop it. The referendum took place....What we can do is recognise the reasons why people voted leave."

Jo Johnson quits UK government, urges referendum to avoid Brexit chaos

British Prime Minister Theresa May drew the fury of her crucial Northern Irish allies on Friday after seemingly accepting an EU-backed Brexit solution they fervently oppose.

London's latest political spat underscores the trouble May's fractured government faces in passing through parliament any Brexit arrangement it thrashes out with Brussels over the coming days.

The Times newspaper reported that May sent a five-page letter on Tuesday to the leaders of Northern Ireland's small Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) that props up her government.

May reportedly told her ruling coalition partners she would never allow the disputed Brexit deal proposal offered by Brussels to "come into force".

But DUP leaders said on Friday that May's wording meant the fix would still be included in the withdrawal agreement that London and Brussels hope to reach in the coming days.

They said May had earlier promised them it never would -- and they threatened to vote against the agreement.

"The PM's letter raises alarm bells for those who value the integrity of our precious union &amp; for those who want a proper Brexit for the whole UK," DUP leader Arlene Foster tweeted.

DUP Brexit spokesman Sammy Wilson told Sky News that May was guilty of "total betrayal".

"If a deal emerges shaped on the contents of the PM’s letter, @duponline MPs &amp; our allies will not support it," Wilson tweeted.

"The PM knows the consequences, she now needs to reconsider."

'Showdown'&nbsp;

At issue is the problem of how to avoid border checks between British Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland after Brexit enters into force on March 29.

London suggests Britain could temporarily stay aligned with the bloc's trade rules but wants to reserve the right to exit the arrangement.

The EU appears ready to accept that -- but only if there is a fall-back option written into the withdrawal agreement.

This so-called "backstop to the backstop" would see Northern Ireland become wedded to the EU single market and customs union should London and Brussels fail to strike a permanent trade deal.

It would then require additional checks on goods and agriculture flowing between Northern Ireland and mainland Britain along the Irish Sea.

The DUP views this as a red line and a betrayal of the peace agreement that brought peace to the troubled province in the 1990s.

Some British media said May's government leaked the letter to prepare the ground for what The Guardian called a final "showdown" with the DUP over the checks.

Culture Secretary Jeremy Wright told BBC Radio that May's government would not let the EU carve up the United Kingdom.

"There is no doubt we have understood the concern the DUP and others have expressed about a hard border down the Irish Sea, we share it, and we will not accept a deal that involves that component."

Eurosceptics in May's Conservative Party are already threatening to vote against the deal because it could lock Britain into a long-term customs arrangement with the EU.

May's failure to secure DUP's backing could see the government lose the Brexit vote and potentially face early elections.

British Prime Minister Theresa May drew the fury of her crucial Northern Irish allies on Friday after seemingly accepting an EU-backed Brexit solution they fervently oppose.

British Prime Minister Theresa May drew the fury of her crucial Northern Irish allies on Friday after seemingly accepting an EU-backed Brexit solution they fervently oppose. London's latest political spat underscores the trouble May's fractured government faces in passing through parliament any Brexit arrangement it thrashes out with Brussels over the coming days. The Times newspaper reported that May sent a five-page letter on Tuesday to the leaders of Northern Ireland's small Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) that props up her government. May reportedly told her ruling coalition partners she would never allow the disputed Brexit deal proposal offered by Brussels to "come into force". But DUP leaders said on Friday that May's wording meant the fix would still be included in the withdrawal agreement that London and Brussels hope to reach in the coming days. They said May had earlier promised them it never would -- and they threatened to vote against the agreement. "The PM's letter raises alarm bells for those who value the integrity of our precious union & for those who want a proper Brexit for the whole UK," DUP leader Arlene Foster tweeted. DUP Brexit spokesman Sammy Wilson told Sky News that May was guilty of "total betrayal". "If a deal emerges shaped on the contents of the PM’s letter, @duponline MPs & our allies will not support it," Wilson tweeted. "The PM knows the consequences, she now needs to reconsider." 'Showdown' At issue is the problem of how to avoid border checks between British Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland after Brexit enters into force on March 29. London suggests Britain could temporarily stay aligned with the bloc's trade rules but wants to reserve the right to exit the arrangement. The EU appears ready to accept that -- but only if there is a fall-back option written into the withdrawal agreement. This so-called "backstop to the backstop" would see Northern Ireland become wedded to the EU single market and customs union should London and Brussels fail to strike a permanent trade deal. It would then require additional checks on goods and agriculture flowing between Northern Ireland and mainland Britain along the Irish Sea. The DUP views this as a red line and a betrayal of the peace agreement that brought peace to the troubled province in the 1990s. Some British media said May's government leaked the letter to prepare the ground for what The Guardian called a final "showdown" with the DUP over the checks. Culture Secretary Jeremy Wright told BBC Radio that May's government would not let the EU carve up the United Kingdom. "There is no doubt we have understood the concern the DUP and others have expressed about a hard border down the Irish Sea, we share it, and we will not accept a deal that involves that component." Eurosceptics in May's Conservative Party are already threatening to vote against the deal because it could lock Britain into a long-term customs arrangement with the EU. May's failure to secure DUP's backing could see the government lose the Brexit vote and potentially face early elections.

UK PM May faces fury of Northern Irish allies over Brexit

"Single-use" was named the Collins Dictionary word of the year on Wednesday, following a four-fold increase in usage since 2013 in a reflection of increased concerns about sustainability.

It edged out "MeToo" and "whitewash" to top the list of 10 new and notable words that "reflect an ever-evolving culture and the preoccupations of those who use it", Collins said.

The wider 10 words of the year include ones inspired by Brexit, environmental concerns and the 2018 football World Cup.

"Single-use" describes items "whose unchecked proliferation are blamed for damaging the environment and affecting the food chain", said Collins.

It said public awareness of plastic adrift in the oceans had led to a global campaign to reduce the use of once-only items.

Another environment-related word on the list was plogging: a Scandinavian fitness craze that combines jogging with picking up litter.

"Vegan", a person who refrains from using any animal products, has become an increasingly mainstream lifestyle choice in recent years and so gets on the list.

"This has been a year where awareness and often anger over a variety of issues has led to the rise of new words and the revitalisation and adaptation of old ones," said Helen Newstead, Collins' head of language content.

"It's clear from this year's words of the year list that changes to our language are dictated as much by public concern as they are by sport, politics, and playground fads."

Fancy flossing with gammon?&nbsp;

"MeToo", the movement seeking to expose and eradicate sexual harassment, makes the top 10.

Brexit, the 2016 word of the year, has inspired two new words on this year's list: "backstop" and "gammon".

"Backstop" is defined as a system that may be used if no other arrangement is made.

The derogatory use of the word "gammon" -- a type of cured pork -- has gained popularity as a term of abuse directed at the most reactionary pro-Brexit supporters, who are typically white, male and middle-aged.

"Whitewash" -- casting a white actor as an ethnic minority character" -- also makes the list.

There's a new term for manipulating others, often romantic partners, by continually feeding them false information until they doubt their sanity: "gaslight".

From the World Cup, "VAR", an abbreviation of video assistant referee, makes the list.

The final word on the list is the "floss" dance craze.

"The words in this year's list perhaps highlight a world at extremes -- at one end, serious social and political concerns, and at the other, more light-hearted activities," said Newstead.

The list will join the online version of the dictionary and be considered for inclusion in future print editions.

"Single-use" was named the Collins Dictionary word of the year on Wednesday, following a four-fold increase in usage since 2013 in a reflection of increased concerns about sustainability.

"Single-use" was named the Collins Dictionary word of the year on Wednesday, following a four-fold increase in usage since 2013 in a reflection of increased concerns about sustainability. It edged out "MeToo" and "whitewash" to top the list of 10 new and notable words that "reflect an ever-evolving culture and the preoccupations of those who use it", Collins said. The wider 10 words of the year include ones inspired by Brexit, environmental concerns and the 2018 football World Cup. "Single-use" describes items "whose unchecked proliferation are blamed for damaging the environment and affecting the food chain", said Collins. It said public awareness of plastic adrift in the oceans had led to a global campaign to reduce the use of once-only items. Another environment-related word on the list was plogging: a Scandinavian fitness craze that combines jogging with picking up litter. "Vegan", a person who refrains from using any animal products, has become an increasingly mainstream lifestyle choice in recent years and so gets on the list. "This has been a year where awareness and often anger over a variety of issues has led to the rise of new words and the revitalisation and adaptation of old ones," said Helen Newstead, Collins' head of language content. "It's clear from this year's words of the year list that changes to our language are dictated as much by public concern as they are by sport, politics, and playground fads." Fancy flossing with gammon? "MeToo", the movement seeking to expose and eradicate sexual harassment, makes the top 10. Brexit, the 2016 word of the year, has inspired two new words on this year's list: "backstop" and "gammon". "Backstop" is defined as a system that may be used if no other arrangement is made. The derogatory use of the word "gammon" -- a type of cured pork -- has gained popularity as a term of abuse directed at the most reactionary pro-Brexit supporters, who are typically white, male and middle-aged. "Whitewash" -- casting a white actor as an ethnic minority character" -- also makes the list. There's a new term for manipulating others, often romantic partners, by continually feeding them false information until they doubt their sanity: "gaslight". From the World Cup, "VAR", an abbreviation of video assistant referee, makes the list. The final word on the list is the "floss" dance craze. "The words in this year's list perhaps highlight a world at extremes -- at one end, serious social and political concerns, and at the other, more light-hearted activities," said Newstead. The list will join the online version of the dictionary and be considered for inclusion in future print editions.

Metoo, Brexit are now in the dictionary, 'single-use' is word of the year

British Prime Minister Theresa May promised her ministers Tuesday she would not strike a Brexit deal with the EU "at any cost" after opposition over a mooted plan to resolve the deadlock over Northern Ireland.

Negotiations have stepped up with Brussels as London seeks a divorce agreement within weeks, to allow time for it to be passed by parliament before Brexit day on March 29, 2019.

But British eurosceptics fear May is planning to break the impasse by giving too much ground on an arrangement to avoid border checks between British Northern Ireland and EU member Ireland.

The Northern Irish party on whom May depends for her majority in the House of Commons warned that unless the EU offered further concessions, Britain could leave with no deal at all.

At a weekly cabinet meeting, May told ministers she expected an agreement and wanted it as soon as possible, but it would "not be done at any cost", according to her spokesman.

"We will need to be satisfied in the negotiations that we have achieved the best deal that we possibly can for the UK," he added.

Talks with the EU are stuck on the details of a "backstop" arrangement to avoid checks on goods crossing the Irish border until a new trade deal can be signed.

London suggests Britain could temporarily stay aligned with &nbsp;the bloc's trade rules but wants to reserve the right to exit the arrangement.

There were signs of a possible compromise in a phone call on Monday between May and Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar, where he said he would consider a "review mechanism" for the backstop.

But he rejected the idea Britain could unilaterally end the arrangement, something Brexit Secretary Dominic Raab and other eurosceptics in her Conservative party want.

Jeffrey Donaldson, an MP from Northern Ireland's Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), which props up May's government, said Dublin's refusal to budge could scupper a deal.

"Looks like we're heading for no deal," he wrote on Twitter, adding: "Can't understand why Irish government seems so intent on this course."

The Sun newspaper reported Tuesday that Raab and Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt would use the cabinet meeting to warn that any deal with the EU that traps Britain within the bloc's orbit would never be approved by MPs.

May's spokesman said ministers agreed on the need for an "effective mechanism" within the backstop to ensure "that the UK cannot be held in the arrangement indefinitely".

Work is continuing on this, he said, adding: "Don't be under any illusions that there remains a significant amount of work to do."

Several government sources have indicated they would like to see a deal before the end of November, although one official admitted Tuesday this was now a "stretch".

British Prime Minister Theresa May promised her ministers Tuesday she would not strike a Brexit deal with the EU "at any cost" after opposition over a mooted plan to resolve the deadlock over Northern Ireland.

British Prime Minister Theresa May promised her ministers Tuesday she would not strike a Brexit deal with the EU "at any cost" after opposition over a mooted plan to resolve the deadlock over Northern Ireland. Negotiations have stepped up with Brussels as London seeks a divorce agreement within weeks, to allow time for it to be passed by parliament before Brexit day on March 29, 2019. But British eurosceptics fear May is planning to break the impasse by giving too much ground on an arrangement to avoid border checks between British Northern Ireland and EU member Ireland. The Northern Irish party on whom May depends for her majority in the House of Commons warned that unless the EU offered further concessions, Britain could leave with no deal at all. At a weekly cabinet meeting, May told ministers she expected an agreement and wanted it as soon as possible, but it would "not be done at any cost", according to her spokesman. "We will need to be satisfied in the negotiations that we have achieved the best deal that we possibly can for the UK," he added. Talks with the EU are stuck on the details of a "backstop" arrangement to avoid checks on goods crossing the Irish border until a new trade deal can be signed. London suggests Britain could temporarily stay aligned with the bloc's trade rules but wants to reserve the right to exit the arrangement. There were signs of a possible compromise in a phone call on Monday between May and Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar, where he said he would consider a "review mechanism" for the backstop. But he rejected the idea Britain could unilaterally end the arrangement, something Brexit Secretary Dominic Raab and other eurosceptics in her Conservative party want. Jeffrey Donaldson, an MP from Northern Ireland's Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), which props up May's government, said Dublin's refusal to budge could scupper a deal. "Looks like we're heading for no deal," he wrote on Twitter, adding: "Can't understand why Irish government seems so intent on this course." The Sun newspaper reported Tuesday that Raab and Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt would use the cabinet meeting to warn that any deal with the EU that traps Britain within the bloc's orbit would never be approved by MPs. May's spokesman said ministers agreed on the need for an "effective mechanism" within the backstop to ensure "that the UK cannot be held in the arrangement indefinitely". Work is continuing on this, he said, adding: "Don't be under any illusions that there remains a significant amount of work to do." Several government sources have indicated they would like to see a deal before the end of November, although one official admitted Tuesday this was now a "stretch".

United Kingdom's Theresa May says will not agree Brexit deal 'at any cost'

By Daniel Hough 
 
German politics has been dominated by two parties since the end of the war – the Christian Democrats and the Social Democrats. Yet, recent election results in the southern state of Bavaria and in the central region of Hesse are evidence that they are in big trouble.

This became even more apparent when, the day after the Hesse election, Angela Merkel, Germany’s long-time leader, announced that she would not stand again as Chancellor in the 2021 election and wouldn’t put herself forward for re-election as leader of the Christian Democrats (CDU) in December.

The logic behind this decision is simple: Merkel recognises that her brand is not the electoral asset that it once was and that the need to groom a successor is getting ever more urgent. All eyes will now be keeping a close on on the likes of Jens Spahn, Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer and Armin Laschet – the three front-runners to take over as CDU leader.

Tough at the top

It’s certainly not implausible that German party politics is undergoing a seismic shift. The Christian Democrat parties – CDU and their regional partner the CSU – and the Social Democrats (SPD) continue to govern nationally as part of a longstanding grand coalition but are seeing their vote shares and opinion poll ratings slump to historic lows. Meanwhile, the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) is, since the Hesse election, now present in all 16 regional parliaments plus the European Parliament and the Bundestag. Both the liberal Free Democrats (FDP) and the socialist Left Party have solid bases of support that see them maintaining a firm presence in national politics. The Greens, meanwhile, are flying high in the national opinion polls and have performed admirably in recent regional elections.

The two main parties do nonetheless now have some time to try to shape the national narrative in a way that suits them. The CDU will try to do that under a new party leader, the SPD almost certainly with the leaders they currently have. That both parties are managing a way out of the unloved grand coalition is clear, but that way out cannot begin any time soon. Both parties are desperate to find alternatives to governing with each other, but, for now, these alternatives are not clear enough and reliable enough to be viable. The only option is to keep calm and carry on.

The CDU/CSU and SPD are helped by the fact that Germany is moving into a period of relative electoral tranquillity. There are no major electoral contests between now and May 2019, the date of both elections to the European Parliament and also to the smallest of Germany’s 16 states, Bremen. The next major regional elections take place in the eastern states of Brandenburg and Saxony on September 1 2019. They are quickly followed by another contest in Thuringia (again in the east) on October 27 2019.

This gives the German government some breathing space. Politicians in both the CDU and the SPD are well aware that internal bickering has badly hamstrung the government. Stories of scandal and intrigue far outweigh discussions of any substantive achievements. Both Merkel and Andrea Nahles (the leader of the SPD) know that simply has to change.

Neither Merkel nor Nahles has the slightest interest in collapsing the coalition and calling new elections. That way electoral disaster lies for both parties. They, and majorities in their parties, know that they somehow have to make the national government work. Nahles announced that this will involve a (newly declared) mid-term assessment of whether there’s enough evidence of SPD achievements to merit carrying on. In reality, this will be for internal consumption as the SPD will – in all likelihood – still be a long way from strong enough to risk pulling out of the coalition and prompting new elections. The two parties are subsequently doomed to govern together for at least the medium term.

2019: a bellwether year? 
 
The fact that 2019 will be the year of eastern regional elections will be significant. German national elections are often won and lost in the east. The Greens’ two impressive successes in 2018 have both come in western regions where their post-materialist supporter base is much stronger. This shouldn’t deflect from the considerable achievements of the Greens in Bavaria and Hesse, but eastern Germany will be a totally different challenge.

It’s worth remembering that in the last regional election in Brandenburg in 2014 the Greens polled 6.2 per cent. In both Saxony and Thuringia (also in 2014) they managed identical scores of 5.7 per cent. At the 2017 national election the Greens managed 5 per cent, 4.6 per cent and 4.1 per cent respectively in those three states. Compare this to 19.5 per cent in Hesse and 17.5 per cent in Bavaria and it’s clear that the Greens have a long way to go before they are flying as high in the East as they currently are in the West.

An interesting indicator of where Germany may ultimately end up by autumn 2021 (the date of the next scheduled federal election) could come in where disgruntled CDU voters go in each of the 2019 eastern elections. In Hesse, Infratest Dimap, one of Germany’s leading opinion poll agencies, estimated that around 99,000 former CDU voters opted to support the Greens. Around 96,000 went to the AfD. Only 35,000 went to the CDU’s long-time ally in federal politics, the Free Democrats.

In Brandenburg, Saxony and Thuringia the CDU doesn’t have as much to lose as it did in Bavaria and Hesse, having polled 26.7 per cent, 26.9 per cent and 28.8 per cent last time out. But, since 1990 the eastern electorate has been – at times markedly – more volatile than that in western Germany. Voters can and do change their preferences, and sometimes quite drastically. If the Greens are again able to pick up around the same number of voters from the CDU as the AfD does, then we can take that as a fair indication that their supporter base really is growing nationally. Given that the AfD is no newcomer in those three states (it took 12.5 per cent, 9.7 per cent and 10.6 per cent of the vote respectively in each of the last regional elections in those states), it won’t be the fresh upstart that it has been until now.

Predicting national trends from regional polls can be a dangerous game. But given that the German government now has the best part of a year to look and act like a government that knows what it’s doing, the three eastern regional elections will be an excellent time to take stock of what all the trends that have appeared in 2018 actually mean. Until then, expect to see muddling along aplenty.

(Daniel Hough is Professor of Politics, University of Sussex)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/angela-merkel-to-step-aside-heres-what-it-means-for-germany-and-what-to-expect-next-105875">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

By Daniel Hough German politics has been dominated by two parties since the end of the war – the Christian Democrats and the Social Democrats. Yet, recent election results in the southern state of Bavaria and in the central region of Hesse are evidence that they are in big trouble.

By Daniel Hough German politics has been dominated by two parties since the end of the war – the Christian Democrats and the Social Democrats. Yet, recent election results in the southern state of Bavaria and in the central region of Hesse are evidence that they are in big trouble. This became even more apparent when, the day after the Hesse election, Angela Merkel, Germany’s long-time leader, announced that she would not stand again as Chancellor in the 2021 election and wouldn’t put herself forward for re-election as leader of the Christian Democrats (CDU) in December. The logic behind this decision is simple: Merkel recognises that her brand is not the electoral asset that it once was and that the need to groom a successor is getting ever more urgent. All eyes will now be keeping a close on on the likes of Jens Spahn, Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer and Armin Laschet – the three front-runners to take over as CDU leader. Tough at the top It’s certainly not implausible that German party politics is undergoing a seismic shift. The Christian Democrat parties – CDU and their regional partner the CSU – and the Social Democrats (SPD) continue to govern nationally as part of a longstanding grand coalition but are seeing their vote shares and opinion poll ratings slump to historic lows. Meanwhile, the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) is, since the Hesse election, now present in all 16 regional parliaments plus the European Parliament and the Bundestag. Both the liberal Free Democrats (FDP) and the socialist Left Party have solid bases of support that see them maintaining a firm presence in national politics. The Greens, meanwhile, are flying high in the national opinion polls and have performed admirably in recent regional elections. The two main parties do nonetheless now have some time to try to shape the national narrative in a way that suits them. The CDU will try to do that under a new party leader, the SPD almost certainly with the leaders they currently have. That both parties are managing a way out of the unloved grand coalition is clear, but that way out cannot begin any time soon. Both parties are desperate to find alternatives to governing with each other, but, for now, these alternatives are not clear enough and reliable enough to be viable. The only option is to keep calm and carry on. The CDU/CSU and SPD are helped by the fact that Germany is moving into a period of relative electoral tranquillity. There are no major electoral contests between now and May 2019, the date of both elections to the European Parliament and also to the smallest of Germany’s 16 states, Bremen. The next major regional elections take place in the eastern states of Brandenburg and Saxony on September 1 2019. They are quickly followed by another contest in Thuringia (again in the east) on October 27 2019. This gives the German government some breathing space. Politicians in both the CDU and the SPD are well aware that internal bickering has badly hamstrung the government. Stories of scandal and intrigue far outweigh discussions of any substantive achievements. Both Merkel and Andrea Nahles (the leader of the SPD) know that simply has to change. Neither Merkel nor Nahles has the slightest interest in collapsing the coalition and calling new elections. That way electoral disaster lies for both parties. They, and majorities in their parties, know that they somehow have to make the national government work. Nahles announced that this will involve a (newly declared) mid-term assessment of whether there’s enough evidence of SPD achievements to merit carrying on. In reality, this will be for internal consumption as the SPD will – in all likelihood – still be a long way from strong enough to risk pulling out of the coalition and prompting new elections. The two parties are subsequently doomed to govern together for at least the medium term. 2019: a bellwether year? The fact that 2019 will be the year of eastern regional elections will be significant. German national elections are often won and lost in the east. The Greens’ two impressive successes in 2018 have both come in western regions where their post-materialist supporter base is much stronger. This shouldn’t deflect from the considerable achievements of the Greens in Bavaria and Hesse, but eastern Germany will be a totally different challenge. It’s worth remembering that in the last regional election in Brandenburg in 2014 the Greens polled 6.2 per cent. In both Saxony and Thuringia (also in 2014) they managed identical scores of 5.7 per cent. At the 2017 national election the Greens managed 5 per cent, 4.6 per cent and 4.1 per cent respectively in those three states. Compare this to 19.5 per cent in Hesse and 17.5 per cent in Bavaria and it’s clear that the Greens have a long way to go before they are flying as high in the East as they currently are in the West. An interesting indicator of where Germany may ultimately end up by autumn 2021 (the date of the next scheduled federal election) could come in where disgruntled CDU voters go in each of the 2019 eastern elections. In Hesse, Infratest Dimap, one of Germany’s leading opinion poll agencies, estimated that around 99,000 former CDU voters opted to support the Greens. Around 96,000 went to the AfD. Only 35,000 went to the CDU’s long-time ally in federal politics, the Free Democrats. In Brandenburg, Saxony and Thuringia the CDU doesn’t have as much to lose as it did in Bavaria and Hesse, having polled 26.7 per cent, 26.9 per cent and 28.8 per cent last time out. But, since 1990 the eastern electorate has been – at times markedly – more volatile than that in western Germany. Voters can and do change their preferences, and sometimes quite drastically. If the Greens are again able to pick up around the same number of voters from the CDU as the AfD does, then we can take that as a fair indication that their supporter base really is growing nationally. Given that the AfD is no newcomer in those three states (it took 12.5 per cent, 9.7 per cent and 10.6 per cent of the vote respectively in each of the last regional elections in those states), it won’t be the fresh upstart that it has been until now. Predicting national trends from regional polls can be a dangerous game. But given that the German government now has the best part of a year to look and act like a government that knows what it’s doing, the three eastern regional elections will be an excellent time to take stock of what all the trends that have appeared in 2018 actually mean. Until then, expect to see muddling along aplenty. (Daniel Hough is Professor of Politics, University of Sussex) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Here's what Angela Merkel's decision to step aside means for Germany

The EU's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier denied Thursday a report claiming that London and Brussels had reached a preliminary agreement covering financial services and data.

The Times newspaper said a deal had been struck that would see UK financial services companies retain access to European Union markets after Britain leaves the bloc in March.

Such a deal would guarantee British companies access to EU markets as long as domestic regulations remained broadly aligned with those set by Brussels -- an arrangement called "equivalence".

Barnier called the report "misleading", while British Prime Minister Theresa May's spokesman played it down as "speculation".

"Misleading press articles today on Brexit &amp; financial services," Barnier wrote on Twitter.

"Reminder: EU may grant and withdraw equivalence in some financial services autonomously. As with other 3rd countries, EU ready to have close regulatory dialogue with UK in full respect for autonomy of both parties."

British government officials were more positive.

May's spokesman called The Times report "speculation", but added: "While we continue to make good progress, agreeing new arrangements for financial services negotiations are ongoing."

The pound started to rally following the report's publication.

It extended those gains on a signal from the central bank that it stood ready to raise rates in response to early signs of the economy overheating.

The pound stood at a weekly high of about $1.2921 around 1230 GMT. The day's rise of 1.2 per cent was the highest since February, according to Bloomberg data.

British optimism

Financial services are a major part of Britain's economy and access to European markets has been a key concern in the Brexit negotiations.

Currently, the EU would be able to withdraw market access with a month's notice if it decides that a partner country no longer has equivalent financial services regulations.

The report in The Times suggested that neither London nor Brussels would be able to declare unilaterally that regulations had fallen out of equivalence and block access to their markets without first going through independent arbitration and a notice period "significantly longer" than one month.

Britain's Brexit minister Dominic Raab believes a divorce deal with the Brussels could be struck by November 21, it emerged Wednesday, prompting EU leaders to warn this would require a breakthrough within days.

In a letter to a parliamentary scrutiny panel, he wrote: "I would be happy to give evidence to the committee when a deal is finalised, and currently expect 21 November to be suitable."

But Raab's ministry later admitted there was "no set date for the negotiations to conclude".

Most of the divorce deal with Brussels is agreed but talks remain stuck on how to avoid new checks on Britain's land border with EU member Ireland after it leaves the bloc's single market and customs union.

Analysts said reaching a preliminary services agreement with the EU could ease May's job of convincing lawmakers to approve any Ireland border deal.

The EU's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier denied Thursday a report claiming that London and Brussels had reached a preliminary agreement covering financial services and data.

The EU's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier denied Thursday a report claiming that London and Brussels had reached a preliminary agreement covering financial services and data. The Times newspaper said a deal had been struck that would see UK financial services companies retain access to European Union markets after Britain leaves the bloc in March. Such a deal would guarantee British companies access to EU markets as long as domestic regulations remained broadly aligned with those set by Brussels -- an arrangement called "equivalence". Barnier called the report "misleading", while British Prime Minister Theresa May's spokesman played it down as "speculation". "Misleading press articles today on Brexit & financial services," Barnier wrote on Twitter. "Reminder: EU may grant and withdraw equivalence in some financial services autonomously. As with other 3rd countries, EU ready to have close regulatory dialogue with UK in full respect for autonomy of both parties." British government officials were more positive. May's spokesman called The Times report "speculation", but added: "While we continue to make good progress, agreeing new arrangements for financial services negotiations are ongoing." The pound started to rally following the report's publication. It extended those gains on a signal from the central bank that it stood ready to raise rates in response to early signs of the economy overheating. The pound stood at a weekly high of about $1.2921 around 1230 GMT. The day's rise of 1.2 per cent was the highest since February, according to Bloomberg data. British optimism Financial services are a major part of Britain's economy and access to European markets has been a key concern in the Brexit negotiations. Currently, the EU would be able to withdraw market access with a month's notice if it decides that a partner country no longer has equivalent financial services regulations. The report in The Times suggested that neither London nor Brussels would be able to declare unilaterally that regulations had fallen out of equivalence and block access to their markets without first going through independent arbitration and a notice period "significantly longer" than one month. Britain's Brexit minister Dominic Raab believes a divorce deal with the Brussels could be struck by November 21, it emerged Wednesday, prompting EU leaders to warn this would require a breakthrough within days. In a letter to a parliamentary scrutiny panel, he wrote: "I would be happy to give evidence to the committee when a deal is finalised, and currently expect 21 November to be suitable." But Raab's ministry later admitted there was "no set date for the negotiations to conclude". Most of the divorce deal with Brussels is agreed but talks remain stuck on how to avoid new checks on Britain's land border with EU member Ireland after it leaves the bloc's single market and customs union. Analysts said reaching a preliminary services agreement with the EU could ease May's job of convincing lawmakers to approve any Ireland border deal.

Barnier denies Brexit deal reached on financial services

Britain hopes to finalise a deal on its withdrawal from the European Union by November 21, the Brexit minister told MPs in a letter published on Wednesday.

"I would be happy to give evidence to the committee when a deal is finalised, and currently expect 21 November to be suitable," Dominic Raab wrote to the House of Commons Brexit scrutiny committee.

The letter is dated October 24, but was only made public on Wednesday.

Both Raab and Oliver Robbins, Prime Minister Theresa May's chief Brexit advisor, have been invited to address the committee on November 21.

Most of the divorce deal with Brussels is agreed but talks remain stuck on how to avoid new checks on Britain's land border with EU member Ireland after it leaves the bloc's single market and customs union.

Raab will visit the UK province of Northern Ireland on Friday on a "fact-finding trip", which will include meetings with local businesses and politicians, an official in his ministry told AFP.

EU leaders had mooted a special summit in mid-November to seal the Brexit deal, but they warned earlier this month that this would not happen without more progress on the Irish issue.

Raab wrote: "The end is now firmly in sight and, while obstacles remain, it cannot be beyond us to navigate them."

Separately, his predecessor David Davis, who quit over the government's approach to Brexit in July, has said the final deal will likely pass when it comes to a vote in the House of Commons.

Davis is among a large minority of May's Conservative MPs who strongly oppose her strategy, raising fears the deal will be rejected.

"The fear of no deal, I think.... That will win and there will be a deal," Davis told an event on Tuesday evening, according to Sky News television.

Britain hopes to finalise a deal on its withdrawal from the European Union by November 21, the Brexit minister told MPs in a letter published on Wednesday. "I would be happy to give evidence to the committee when a deal is finalised, and currently expect 21 November to be suitable," Dominic Raab wrote to the House of Commons Brexit scrutiny committee.

Britain hopes to finalise a deal on its withdrawal from the European Union by November 21, the Brexit minister told MPs in a letter published on Wednesday. "I would be happy to give evidence to the committee when a deal is finalised, and currently expect 21 November to be suitable," Dominic Raab wrote to the House of Commons Brexit scrutiny committee. The letter is dated October 24, but was only made public on Wednesday. Both Raab and Oliver Robbins, Prime Minister Theresa May's chief Brexit advisor, have been invited to address the committee on November 21. Most of the divorce deal with Brussels is agreed but talks remain stuck on how to avoid new checks on Britain's land border with EU member Ireland after it leaves the bloc's single market and customs union. Raab will visit the UK province of Northern Ireland on Friday on a "fact-finding trip", which will include meetings with local businesses and politicians, an official in his ministry told AFP. EU leaders had mooted a special summit in mid-November to seal the Brexit deal, but they warned earlier this month that this would not happen without more progress on the Irish issue. Raab wrote: "The end is now firmly in sight and, while obstacles remain, it cannot be beyond us to navigate them." Separately, his predecessor David Davis, who quit over the government's approach to Brexit in July, has said the final deal will likely pass when it comes to a vote in the House of Commons. Davis is among a large minority of May's Conservative MPs who strongly oppose her strategy, raising fears the deal will be rejected. "The fear of no deal, I think.... That will win and there will be a deal," Davis told an event on Tuesday evening, according to Sky News television.

Britain eyes Brexit deal by November 21: Minister Dominic Raab

Britain's finance minister pledged Sunday that "fiscal buffers" would be in place to deal with the potential chaos of the country crashing out of the European Union without a deal in March.

Philip Hammond was speaking ahead of his speech in parliament Monday in which he is to lay out Britain's last budget before Europe's second-largest economy breaks up with the other 27 nations in the bloc.

The chancellor of the exchequer voiced optimism that the two sides could still reach an agreement despite the current impasse in negotiations.

But he told the BBC that he "can't give an absolute guarantee because there have to be two parties -- it takes two to tango".

And he stressed that he was keeping financial firepower in reserve in case Britain crashes out without a deal and a period of financial mayhem ensues.

"What I will continue to do is maintain fiscal buffers, a reserve of borrowing power against my fiscal rules so that if the economy as a result of a no-deal Brexit -- or indeed because of something else we haven't anticipated -- needs support for the coming months and years, I have the capacity to provide that support," he said.

"That depends on what the markets are doing, it depends at the circumstances at the moment."

Officials in Brussels say they are prepared to hold another summit as soon as they see substantial progress on the outstanding issue of the Irish border.

A new UK-EU frontier will emerge between Ireland and Britain's Northern Ireland on March 29.

But the sides still cannot agree how to maintain frictionless trade that accounts for the different customs and regulatory rules that exist between Britain and the EU.

Hammond said that getting a deal "will minimise any negative effects" of the divorce but refused to be drawn on how much damage Brexit as a whole was causing.

And he admitted that Britain would need to come up with a brand new budget in a no-deal scenario.

"If we were to find ourselves in that situation, then we would need to take a different approach to the future of Britain's economy," he told Sky News.

"We would need to look at a different strategy and frankly we'd need to have a new budget that set out a different strategy for the future."

Britain's finance minister pledged Sunday that "fiscal buffers" would be in place to deal with the potential chaos of the country crashing out of the European Union without a deal in March.

Britain's finance minister pledged Sunday that "fiscal buffers" would be in place to deal with the potential chaos of the country crashing out of the European Union without a deal in March. Philip Hammond was speaking ahead of his speech in parliament Monday in which he is to lay out Britain's last budget before Europe's second-largest economy breaks up with the other 27 nations in the bloc. The chancellor of the exchequer voiced optimism that the two sides could still reach an agreement despite the current impasse in negotiations. But he told the BBC that he "can't give an absolute guarantee because there have to be two parties -- it takes two to tango". And he stressed that he was keeping financial firepower in reserve in case Britain crashes out without a deal and a period of financial mayhem ensues. "What I will continue to do is maintain fiscal buffers, a reserve of borrowing power against my fiscal rules so that if the economy as a result of a no-deal Brexit -- or indeed because of something else we haven't anticipated -- needs support for the coming months and years, I have the capacity to provide that support," he said. "That depends on what the markets are doing, it depends at the circumstances at the moment." Officials in Brussels say they are prepared to hold another summit as soon as they see substantial progress on the outstanding issue of the Irish border. A new UK-EU frontier will emerge between Ireland and Britain's Northern Ireland on March 29. But the sides still cannot agree how to maintain frictionless trade that accounts for the different customs and regulatory rules that exist between Britain and the EU. Hammond said that getting a deal "will minimise any negative effects" of the divorce but refused to be drawn on how much damage Brexit as a whole was causing. And he admitted that Britain would need to come up with a brand new budget in a no-deal scenario. "If we were to find ourselves in that situation, then we would need to take a different approach to the future of Britain's economy," he told Sky News. "We would need to look at a different strategy and frankly we'd need to have a new budget that set out a different strategy for the future."

UK preparing 'buffers' for no-deal Brexit: Finance minister

Twenty-seven countries have raised concerns about Britain's future trading terms at the World Trade Organisation, trade sources in Geneva told AFP on Friday, in a move that could delay post-Brexit free trade deals.

The WTO in Geneva -- which has 164 countries as members -- is where countries negotiate the rules of international trade and settle disputes.

Although Britain is a member outright, for decades the EU has represented the UK at the WTO.

But Brexit means the UK has to separate its trade rules from the EU if it wants to act with more independence.

As March approaches -- Britain's Brexit leave date -- the UK has pushed to essentially replicate the WTO rules it currently follows as an EU member, with some technical changes.

But trade sources have told AFP that 27 countries have "raised concerns" about the plans, particularly regarding agriculture tariffs and quotas, as well as other issues.&nbsp;

The move has been described as a "welcome to reality" moment for the UK, by analysts.

"All these countries, they are all saying we would like something, we want a bigger share of the pie," David Henig, Director of the UK Trade Policy Project, told AFP.

"While the UK is in these (WTO) negotiations, that can potentially delay bilateral deals with other countries," he said.

A delay to new free trade deals post-Brexit -- touted as a key benefit of leaving the EU by Brexit supporters -- could have economic consequences for the UK.

But it is still unclear whether Britain's proposed Brexit deal will even leave the UK with much power to negotiate free trade deals.

Until a Brexit deal is completed, it is impossible to know what terms of trade will be negotiated at the WTO.

Many of the concerns raised by other countries at the WTO could even fall away if the UK stays part of the EU's custom's union for example, trade sources said.

- National interests - 
The WTO said the situation is without precedent but that while discussions take place, trade will continue as normal.

"The type of conversation that will take place very much depends on the outcome of the UK-EU bilateral negotiation," the WTO said in a statement.

A separate issue is whether British businesses will continue to get equal access to bid for government contracts in other WTO countries, known as government procurement agreements.&nbsp;

"The other countries might decide to keep treating British businesses the same way, but they don’t have to," warned Doctor Lorand Bartels, a teacher of WTO law at the University of Cambridge.

If the UK does not reach a deal with other WTO countries then, "British businesses would not be protected when bidding for government contracts," Dr Bartels said.

12 percent of GDP is the amount spent on average in OECD countries on public procurement, according to the organisation.

According to market analysis site MLex, Russia is one of the countries to have objected to the British proposals, saying they do not meet obligations "under several basic WTO provisions”.

Other countries have made it clear that they think the plans will put them at a disadvantage, the site said.

The WTO played down the significance, saying countries had simply reserved their right "to sit down and discuss with the British" negotiations in the coming months.

The developments are a reminder of the huge complexities Britain faces to finalise deals while countries promote their own national interests.

"There is a lot of negotiating to go ahead," Henig said.

Twenty-seven countries have raised concerns about Britain's future trading terms at the World Trade Organisation, trade sources in Geneva told AFP on Friday, in a move that could delay post-Brexit free trade deals.

Twenty-seven countries have raised concerns about Britain's future trading terms at the World Trade Organisation, trade sources in Geneva told AFP on Friday, in a move that could delay post-Brexit free trade deals. The WTO in Geneva -- which has 164 countries as members -- is where countries negotiate the rules of international trade and settle disputes. Although Britain is a member outright, for decades the EU has represented the UK at the WTO. But Brexit means the UK has to separate its trade rules from the EU if it wants to act with more independence. As March approaches -- Britain's Brexit leave date -- the UK has pushed to essentially replicate the WTO rules it currently follows as an EU member, with some technical changes. But trade sources have told AFP that 27 countries have "raised concerns" about the plans, particularly regarding agriculture tariffs and quotas, as well as other issues. The move has been described as a "welcome to reality" moment for the UK, by analysts. "All these countries, they are all saying we would like something, we want a bigger share of the pie," David Henig, Director of the UK Trade Policy Project, told AFP. "While the UK is in these (WTO) negotiations, that can potentially delay bilateral deals with other countries," he said. A delay to new free trade deals post-Brexit -- touted as a key benefit of leaving the EU by Brexit supporters -- could have economic consequences for the UK. But it is still unclear whether Britain's proposed Brexit deal will even leave the UK with much power to negotiate free trade deals. Until a Brexit deal is completed, it is impossible to know what terms of trade will be negotiated at the WTO. Many of the concerns raised by other countries at the WTO could even fall away if the UK stays part of the EU's custom's union for example, trade sources said. - National interests - The WTO said the situation is without precedent but that while discussions take place, trade will continue as normal. "The type of conversation that will take place very much depends on the outcome of the UK-EU bilateral negotiation," the WTO said in a statement. A separate issue is whether British businesses will continue to get equal access to bid for government contracts in other WTO countries, known as government procurement agreements. "The other countries might decide to keep treating British businesses the same way, but they don’t have to," warned Doctor Lorand Bartels, a teacher of WTO law at the University of Cambridge. If the UK does not reach a deal with other WTO countries then, "British businesses would not be protected when bidding for government contracts," Dr Bartels said. 12 percent of GDP is the amount spent on average in OECD countries on public procurement, according to the organisation. According to market analysis site MLex, Russia is one of the countries to have objected to the British proposals, saying they do not meet obligations "under several basic WTO provisions”. Other countries have made it clear that they think the plans will put them at a disadvantage, the site said. The WTO played down the significance, saying countries had simply reserved their right "to sit down and discuss with the British" negotiations in the coming months. The developments are a reminder of the huge complexities Britain faces to finalise deals while countries promote their own national interests. "There is a lot of negotiating to go ahead," Henig said.

27 countries raise concerns at WTO over Britain's post-Brexit trade plans

Hundreds of thousands of supporters of the European Union marched through London on Saturday in the biggest demonstration so far to demand that the British government holds a public vote on the terms of Brexit.

The protesters waved the blue and gold flag of the EU and held up "Bollocks to Brexit" banners under sunny skies to call for another referendum on the eventual deal on how Britain will leave the world's biggest trading bloc.

The march comes after another tumultuous week for Prime Minister Theresa May in which she failed to agree a divorce deal with EU leaders in Brussels and infuriated members of her own party by making further concessions in the talks.

With just over five months until Britain is due to leave there is no clarity about what a future trade deal with the EU will look like and some rebels in May's Conservative Party have threatened to vote down a deal if she clinches one.

James McGrory, one of the organisers of the march, said voters should have the chance to change their minds because the decision will impact their lives for generations.

"People think the Brexit negotiations are a total mess, they have no faith in the government to deliver the promises that were made, partly because they cannot be delivered," he said.

At the march, demonstrators carried placards saying "Brexit is pants", "Time for an EU turn" and "European and proud."

Organisers said about 670,000 people took part in the march, which would make it the largest in Britain since a demonstration against the Iraq war in 2003.

The "People's Vote" campaign, which includes several pro-EU groups, said they had stewards stationed at regular intervals to estimate the size of the crowd. The police did not provide an independent estimate of numbers participating.

Protesters originally gathered near Hyde Park and then walked past Downing Street and finished outside parliament where they listened to politicians from all main political parties.

Brexit reversed?

Britain's 2016 referendum saw 52 per cent vote in favour of leaving the European Union. But the past two years have been politically fraught as the government has struggled to agree on a plan and there are fears that Britain could leave the bloc without a deal.

Some opinion polls have shown a slight shift in favour of remaining in the European Union, but there has yet to be a decisive change in attitudes and many in Britain say they have become increasingly bored by Brexit.

The prime minister has repeatedly ruled out holding a second referendum. The opposition Labour party's Brexit spokesman said last month his party open to a second referendum with the option of staying in the bloc in certain circumstances.

In Belfast in Northern Ireland, around 2,000 people gathered on Saturday to oppose Brexit.

Brendan Heading, a 39-year-old IT worker, said he was worried the decision to leave the EU would damage the economy and could lead to the break up of the United Kingdom.

"I feel that Brexit threatens prosperity and stability," he said. "People should have the opportunity to vote for an alternative based on what we now know."

Brexit supporters held their own rally in the town of Harrogate in the north of England.

Richard Tice, Vice-Chairman of Leave Means Leave and one of the speakers at the event, described the people on the march in London as "losers" and said a second referendum would trigger a constitutional crisis.

"We had a vote, we voted to leave, the idea to have a second referendum would be incredibly damaging," he said.

"People need to be under no illusions as to how people feel about what is a significant potential for a total betrayal of democracy in this country."

Hundreds of thousands of supporters of the European Union marched through London on Saturday in the biggest demonstration so far to demand that the British government holds a public vote on the terms of Brexit.

Hundreds of thousands of supporters of the European Union marched through London on Saturday in the biggest demonstration so far to demand that the British government holds a public vote on the terms of Brexit. The protesters waved the blue and gold flag of the EU and held up "Bollocks to Brexit" banners under sunny skies to call for another referendum on the eventual deal on how Britain will leave the world's biggest trading bloc. The march comes after another tumultuous week for Prime Minister Theresa May in which she failed to agree a divorce deal with EU leaders in Brussels and infuriated members of her own party by making further concessions in the talks. With just over five months until Britain is due to leave there is no clarity about what a future trade deal with the EU will look like and some rebels in May's Conservative Party have threatened to vote down a deal if she clinches one. James McGrory, one of the organisers of the march, said voters should have the chance to change their minds because the decision will impact their lives for generations. "People think the Brexit negotiations are a total mess, they have no faith in the government to deliver the promises that were made, partly because they cannot be delivered," he said. At the march, demonstrators carried placards saying "Brexit is pants", "Time for an EU turn" and "European and proud." Organisers said about 670,000 people took part in the march, which would make it the largest in Britain since a demonstration against the Iraq war in 2003. The "People's Vote" campaign, which includes several pro-EU groups, said they had stewards stationed at regular intervals to estimate the size of the crowd. The police did not provide an independent estimate of numbers participating. Protesters originally gathered near Hyde Park and then walked past Downing Street and finished outside parliament where they listened to politicians from all main political parties. Brexit reversed? Britain's 2016 referendum saw 52 per cent vote in favour of leaving the European Union. But the past two years have been politically fraught as the government has struggled to agree on a plan and there are fears that Britain could leave the bloc without a deal. Some opinion polls have shown a slight shift in favour of remaining in the European Union, but there has yet to be a decisive change in attitudes and many in Britain say they have become increasingly bored by Brexit. The prime minister has repeatedly ruled out holding a second referendum. The opposition Labour party's Brexit spokesman said last month his party open to a second referendum with the option of staying in the bloc in certain circumstances. In Belfast in Northern Ireland, around 2,000 people gathered on Saturday to oppose Brexit. Brendan Heading, a 39-year-old IT worker, said he was worried the decision to leave the EU would damage the economy and could lead to the break up of the United Kingdom. "I feel that Brexit threatens prosperity and stability," he said. "People should have the opportunity to vote for an alternative based on what we now know." Brexit supporters held their own rally in the town of Harrogate in the north of England. Richard Tice, Vice-Chairman of Leave Means Leave and one of the speakers at the event, described the people on the march in London as "losers" and said a second referendum would trigger a constitutional crisis. "We had a vote, we voted to leave, the idea to have a second referendum would be incredibly damaging," he said. "People need to be under no illusions as to how people feel about what is a significant potential for a total betrayal of democracy in this country."

Hundreds of thousands take to streets in London demanding second Brexit vote

By Nikos Skoutaris

British Prime Minister Theresa May has insisted that the result of the Brexit referendum “was a vote to take control of our borders”. In order to do that, the UK will be leaving both the EU single market and the customs union. At the same time, May’s government has committed to protecting the Good Friday Agreement by not accepting any physical infrastructure at the Irish land border. So, the UK and the EU have been facing an almost unsolvable riddle. How can they keep open a land border between an EU member state and a country that is outside the single market and the customs union?

The text of the political agreement reached between the UK and EU in December 2017 included a formula to square the circle. It stated that the aim of future negotiations would be to address the challenge of the Irish border through the overall EU-UK relationship. If the final withdrawal agreement doesn’t provide a frictionless invisible border, then “specific solutions” will apply to Northern Ireland. But if the UK and the EU cannot agree on those specific solutions, then Northern Ireland or the UK as a whole will remain aligned to the single market and the customs union.

Since then, the UK and EU negotiators have struggled to find a legally operative text that would both fulfil the commitment to keep the land border open and respect the political sensitivities of all the interested parties. Below are the proposals on the table.

The EU backstop

The first attempt to legally codify the December 2017 commitment came in the Draft Withdrawal Treaty published by the European Union in February 2018. This proposed setting up a common regulatory area comprising the European Union and Northern Ireland. The region would, therefore, remain in the EU customs territory. May vehemently rejected the plan noting that “no UK prime minister could agree to it”.

The main problem with the suggested arrangement is that it will create a customs border in the Irish Sea between Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK. This is why EU negotiator Michel Barnier tried to de-dramatise the proposed solution by insisting that the whole arrangement creates neither a land nor a sea border. It is merely “a set of technical checks and controls”.

Arlene Foster, leader of Northern Ireland’s Democratic Unionist Party, insists that “the entirety of the UK should be leaving the single market and the customs union”. She has threatened to withdraw the parliamentary support on which May’s government relies if Northern Ireland is treated differently to the UK after Brexit.

The UK backstop 
 
In June 2017, the UK government published its own counter-proposal for a backstop arrangement. The biggest difference between the two proposals is that the UK’s applies to the whole country and not just to Northern Ireland. The entire territory of the UK and the Channel Islands would remain part of the customs territory of the European Union, even after the end of the transition period in December 2020.

However, it is not entirely clear whether under this solution there would also be regulatory alignment between the UK and the EU, keeping the UK effectively within a significant part of the single market. Be that as it may, such an arrangement respects the DUP’s red lines but angers Eurosceptic MPs who do not welcome the prospect of the UK being aligned with EU rules in the long term. This group could vote against such a deal when it reaches parliament.

A backstop to a backstop

More problematic, from an EU point of view, is that May insists that the backstop should be a “temporary solution” because the UK does not want to be “stuck permanently in single customs territory, unable to do meaningful trade deals”. Given that the UK insists on legally entrenching the deadline of the backstop option, the EU is asking for a “backstop to a backstop” specific to Northern Ireland that will not be time-limited.

Endgame

The negotiations for the withdrawal of the UK from the EU are reaching their final stages and it is difficult to see how a solution to the Irish border conundrum can be found without some compromise. The solemn commitment that the UK has undertaken to protect the Good Friday Agreement and to keep the Irish land border open raises a significant dilemma. Either it has to opt for a much closer relationship with the EU than the one described in its red lines or it has to accept some differentiation for Northern Ireland.

(Nikos Skoutaris is Senior Lecturer in European Union Law, School of Law, University of East Anglia)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/brexit-backstop-refresh-why-the-uk-and-eu-cant-agree-on-northern-ireland-105080">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

By Nikos Skoutaris British Prime Minister Theresa May has insisted that the result of the Brexit referendum “was a vote to take control of our borders”. In order to do that, the UK will be leaving both the EU single market and the customs union.

By Nikos Skoutaris British Prime Minister Theresa May has insisted that the result of the Brexit referendum “was a vote to take control of our borders”. In order to do that, the UK will be leaving both the EU single market and the customs union. At the same time, May’s government has committed to protecting the Good Friday Agreement by not accepting any physical infrastructure at the Irish land border. So, the UK and the EU have been facing an almost unsolvable riddle. How can they keep open a land border between an EU member state and a country that is outside the single market and the customs union? The text of the political agreement reached between the UK and EU in December 2017 included a formula to square the circle. It stated that the aim of future negotiations would be to address the challenge of the Irish border through the overall EU-UK relationship. If the final withdrawal agreement doesn’t provide a frictionless invisible border, then “specific solutions” will apply to Northern Ireland. But if the UK and the EU cannot agree on those specific solutions, then Northern Ireland or the UK as a whole will remain aligned to the single market and the customs union. Since then, the UK and EU negotiators have struggled to find a legally operative text that would both fulfil the commitment to keep the land border open and respect the political sensitivities of all the interested parties. Below are the proposals on the table. The EU backstop The first attempt to legally codify the December 2017 commitment came in the Draft Withdrawal Treaty published by the European Union in February 2018. This proposed setting up a common regulatory area comprising the European Union and Northern Ireland. The region would, therefore, remain in the EU customs territory. May vehemently rejected the plan noting that “no UK prime minister could agree to it”. The main problem with the suggested arrangement is that it will create a customs border in the Irish Sea between Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK. This is why EU negotiator Michel Barnier tried to de-dramatise the proposed solution by insisting that the whole arrangement creates neither a land nor a sea border. It is merely “a set of technical checks and controls”. Arlene Foster, leader of Northern Ireland’s Democratic Unionist Party, insists that “the entirety of the UK should be leaving the single market and the customs union”. She has threatened to withdraw the parliamentary support on which May’s government relies if Northern Ireland is treated differently to the UK after Brexit. The UK backstop In June 2017, the UK government published its own counter-proposal for a backstop arrangement. The biggest difference between the two proposals is that the UK’s applies to the whole country and not just to Northern Ireland. The entire territory of the UK and the Channel Islands would remain part of the customs territory of the European Union, even after the end of the transition period in December 2020. However, it is not entirely clear whether under this solution there would also be regulatory alignment between the UK and the EU, keeping the UK effectively within a significant part of the single market. Be that as it may, such an arrangement respects the DUP’s red lines but angers Eurosceptic MPs who do not welcome the prospect of the UK being aligned with EU rules in the long term. This group could vote against such a deal when it reaches parliament. A backstop to a backstop More problematic, from an EU point of view, is that May insists that the backstop should be a “temporary solution” because the UK does not want to be “stuck permanently in single customs territory, unable to do meaningful trade deals”. Given that the UK insists on legally entrenching the deadline of the backstop option, the EU is asking for a “backstop to a backstop” specific to Northern Ireland that will not be time-limited. Endgame The negotiations for the withdrawal of the UK from the EU are reaching their final stages and it is difficult to see how a solution to the Irish border conundrum can be found without some compromise. The solemn commitment that the UK has undertaken to protect the Good Friday Agreement and to keep the Irish land border open raises a significant dilemma. Either it has to opt for a much closer relationship with the EU than the one described in its red lines or it has to accept some differentiation for Northern Ireland. (Nikos Skoutaris is Senior Lecturer in European Union Law, School of Law, University of East Anglia) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

UK and EU face an almost unsolvable riddle

European leaders insisted Thursday that Prime Minister Theresa May must do more to avoid Britain crashing out of the EU without a deal, even after she indicated she was open to extending a Brexit transition period if it helped unblock negotiations.

At a summit in Brussels, May confirmed that she is considering the extension idea floated by the EU as a possible way to break the deadlock over how to keep Britain's border with Ireland open after Brexit.

But other EU nations warned this may not resolve the impasse, which has raised fears of the potentially catastrophic scenario of Britain crashing out in March without any agreement.

May's own officials also admitted that an extension -- which has sparked outrage among eurosceptics at home -- would not affect London's position on the Irish border.

Belgian Prime Minister Charles Michel repeated an earlier call from EU Council President Donald Tusk for the prime minister to act, saying: "More than ever, the ball is in Britain's court."

Longer transition

This week's Brussels summit had been set as the deadline for a draft deal, but the other 27 EU leaders were left once again demanding more progress from London.

Arriving for the second day on Thursday, May noted that both sides remained at odds over a "backstop" plan to avoid frontier checks between Britain and Ireland if and until a new trade deal to resolve the issue can be signed.

"A further idea that has emerged -- and it is an idea at this stage -- is to create an option to extend the implementation period for a matter of months," she told reporters.

Currently a transition phase is planned from Brexit next March until the end of December 2020, to allow time to sign a new EU-UK trade deal.

Extending this could reduce the likelihood of having to use any "backstop" plan, thus taking the heat out of the most contested Brexit issue.

The EU suggests that the British province of Northern Ireland stay aligned to its single market and customs union until a new trade deal is agreed.

But Britain has rejected this, proposing instead that the whole United Kingdom temporarily follow EU customs rules -- something Brussels in turn has said is not possible.

A senior British official confirmed Thursday that even if the transition were extended, Britain remained opposed to the EU's backstop plan.

EU nations also questioned whether the idea would change the situation.

A source in the French presidency warned that an extension "could be part of the discussion but is not an ideal solution".

Luxembourg Prime Minister Xavier Bettel added that Britain's general approach remained a problem.

"It's not possible that the UK keeps all the advantages from the common market but only under its own conditions," he told reporters.

'Embarrassing climbdown'

Even if May's suggestion of an extension to the transition is unlikely to break the deadlock in Brussels, it energised her critics in London.

The Conservative leader has been struggling since the 2016 vote for Brexit to find a compromise divorce deal that is acceptable to both the EU and her own MPs, who could block the final accord in the House of Commons.

Boris Johnson and David Davis, two former ministers who quit in July over her approach to Brexit, signed a joint letter demanding Britain avoid the "purgatory of perpetual membership of the EU's customs union".

On the other side of the political divide, the anti-Brexit Liberal Democrats said extending the transition was another "embarrassing climbdown" for May.

May did little to deflect their anger by suggesting that she did not expect any extension to be used, because she expected a trade deal before December 2020.

The prime minister had made a personal plea to fellow EU leaders on Wednesday to recognise the progress made so far and keep negotiating.

Over dinner afterwards, they agreed to keep talking, but upped the pressure by refusing to sign off on a planned special summit next month to seal the divorce.

Failure to meet in November could see a draft Brexit deal pushed back to a December summit, leaving little time for its ratification by the British and European parliaments.

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said EU leaders had asked the bloc's executive "to work with even more vigour on a no-deal scenario".&nbsp;

European leaders insisted Thursday that Prime Minister Theresa May must do more to avoid Britain crashing out of the EU without a deal, even after she indicated she was open to extending a Brexit transition period if it helped unblock negotiations.

European leaders insisted Thursday that Prime Minister Theresa May must do more to avoid Britain crashing out of the EU without a deal, even after she indicated she was open to extending a Brexit transition period if it helped unblock negotiations. At a summit in Brussels, May confirmed that she is considering the extension idea floated by the EU as a possible way to break the deadlock over how to keep Britain's border with Ireland open after Brexit. But other EU nations warned this may not resolve the impasse, which has raised fears of the potentially catastrophic scenario of Britain crashing out in March without any agreement. May's own officials also admitted that an extension -- which has sparked outrage among eurosceptics at home -- would not affect London's position on the Irish border. Belgian Prime Minister Charles Michel repeated an earlier call from EU Council President Donald Tusk for the prime minister to act, saying: "More than ever, the ball is in Britain's court." Longer transition This week's Brussels summit had been set as the deadline for a draft deal, but the other 27 EU leaders were left once again demanding more progress from London. Arriving for the second day on Thursday, May noted that both sides remained at odds over a "backstop" plan to avoid frontier checks between Britain and Ireland if and until a new trade deal to resolve the issue can be signed. "A further idea that has emerged -- and it is an idea at this stage -- is to create an option to extend the implementation period for a matter of months," she told reporters. Currently a transition phase is planned from Brexit next March until the end of December 2020, to allow time to sign a new EU-UK trade deal. Extending this could reduce the likelihood of having to use any "backstop" plan, thus taking the heat out of the most contested Brexit issue. The EU suggests that the British province of Northern Ireland stay aligned to its single market and customs union until a new trade deal is agreed. But Britain has rejected this, proposing instead that the whole United Kingdom temporarily follow EU customs rules -- something Brussels in turn has said is not possible. A senior British official confirmed Thursday that even if the transition were extended, Britain remained opposed to the EU's backstop plan. EU nations also questioned whether the idea would change the situation. A source in the French presidency warned that an extension "could be part of the discussion but is not an ideal solution". Luxembourg Prime Minister Xavier Bettel added that Britain's general approach remained a problem. "It's not possible that the UK keeps all the advantages from the common market but only under its own conditions," he told reporters. 'Embarrassing climbdown' Even if May's suggestion of an extension to the transition is unlikely to break the deadlock in Brussels, it energised her critics in London. The Conservative leader has been struggling since the 2016 vote for Brexit to find a compromise divorce deal that is acceptable to both the EU and her own MPs, who could block the final accord in the House of Commons. Boris Johnson and David Davis, two former ministers who quit in July over her approach to Brexit, signed a joint letter demanding Britain avoid the "purgatory of perpetual membership of the EU's customs union". On the other side of the political divide, the anti-Brexit Liberal Democrats said extending the transition was another "embarrassing climbdown" for May. May did little to deflect their anger by suggesting that she did not expect any extension to be used, because she expected a trade deal before December 2020. The prime minister had made a personal plea to fellow EU leaders on Wednesday to recognise the progress made so far and keep negotiating. Over dinner afterwards, they agreed to keep talking, but upped the pressure by refusing to sign off on a planned special summit next month to seal the divorce. Failure to meet in November could see a draft Brexit deal pushed back to a December summit, leaving little time for its ratification by the British and European parliaments. Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said EU leaders had asked the bloc's executive "to work with even more vigour on a no-deal scenario".

UK PM mulls longer Brexit transition but European Union demands more progress

British Prime Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/merkel-says-still-a-chance-for-deal-on-brexit-171948">Theresa May confirmed Thursday</a> she was considering extending the transition period after Brexit for a few months to give time to agree on a new trade deal with the European Union.

"A further idea that has emerged, and it is<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/former-minister-calls-on-uk-cabinet-to-make-may-change-mind-on-brexit-171442"> an idea at this stage, is to create an</a> option to extend the implementation period for a matter of months," she told reporters as she arrived for the second day of EU summit talks in Brussels.

PM Theresa May had made no significant new proposals to unblock Brexit negotiations on Wednesday when she briefed fellow EU leaders, the president of the European Parliament told reporters.

"I have said there is nothing substantially new in the content, but I sense a political will to make headway," said Antonio Tajani, who attended May's address on the first night of a European summit.

Earlier, PM Theresa May had said that a Brexit deal was achievable and "now is the time to make it happen", as she arrived at an EU summit.

"I believe everybody around the table wants to get a deal. By working intensively and closely we can achieve that deal," she told reporters in Brussels.

The EU's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier had opened the possibility of extending the one-year transition period in an effort to unblock talks stalled on the thorny issue of the Irish border, EU diplomats said speculated earlier.

Barnier told European Affairs Ministers on Wednesday "that one of the options was to extend the transitional phase by one year (to 2021)" in order to gain more time to negotiate trade deal, EU diplomats told AFP.

British Prime Minister Theresa May confirmed Thursday she was considering extending the transition period after Brexit for a few months to give time to agree on a new trade deal with the European Union.

British Prime Minister Theresa May confirmed Thursday she was considering extending the transition period after Brexit for a few months to give time to agree on a new trade deal with the European Union. "A further idea that has emerged, and it is an idea at this stage, is to create an option to extend the implementation period for a matter of months," she told reporters as she arrived for the second day of EU summit talks in Brussels. PM Theresa May had made no significant new proposals to unblock Brexit negotiations on Wednesday when she briefed fellow EU leaders, the president of the European Parliament told reporters. "I have said there is nothing substantially new in the content, but I sense a political will to make headway," said Antonio Tajani, who attended May's address on the first night of a European summit. Earlier, PM Theresa May had said that a Brexit deal was achievable and "now is the time to make it happen", as she arrived at an EU summit. "I believe everybody around the table wants to get a deal. By working intensively and closely we can achieve that deal," she told reporters in Brussels. The EU's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier had opened the possibility of extending the one-year transition period in an effort to unblock talks stalled on the thorny issue of the Irish border, EU diplomats said speculated earlier. Barnier told European Affairs Ministers on Wednesday "that one of the options was to extend the transitional phase by one year (to 2021)" in order to gain more time to negotiate trade deal, EU diplomats told AFP.

Idea has emerged to extend Brexit implementation period: PM Theresa May

WION Dispatch: European Council President Tusk warns of no-deal Brexit

UK PM rallies ministers ahead of Summit

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said Wednesday that there was "still a chance" for an accord with Britain to leave the EU but that Berlin was preparing for a no-deal Brexit.

"There is still a chance to achieve a good and sustainable exit accord," Merkel told parliament ahead of a crunch EU summit in Brussels that will focus on Brexit.

"At the same time it is of course part of responsible and forward-looking governance that we prepare for all scenarios. That includes the possibility that Britain will leave the EU without a deal."

British Prime Minister Theresa May told her ministers on Tuesday they would secure a Brexit deal if they stood together, calling for a show of unity to silence those pressing her to rethink her strategy for leaving the European Union.

A day before heading to Brussels for a summit, May is keen to show she has her cabinet's support after facing pressure from some members of her Conservative Party and the EU to change tack on Brexit, Britain's biggest policy shift in more than 40 years.

Merkel&nbsp;said the efforts to find agreement were like "squaring the circle".

Less than six months before Britain is due to leave, the impasse has increased the possibility of a 'no deal' Brexit that could potentially disrupt trade, delay movement of goods and starve the world's fifth largest economy of investment.

May's spokesman said the cabinet had held "a very detailed and thorough discussion" on the border issue, with the team united in rejecting any deal that would split the United Kingdom and might "trap" Britain in the backstop indefinitely.

"The PM said there will no doubt be challenging moments ahead, that is in the nature of negotiations. She said she is committed to securing a Brexit that delivers on the referendum result, safeguards jobs and security, and which preserves our union," her spokesman told reporters.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said Wednesday that there was "still a chance" for an accord with Britain to leave the EU but that Berlin was preparing for a no-deal Brexit.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said Wednesday that there was "still a chance" for an accord with Britain to leave the EU but that Berlin was preparing for a no-deal Brexit. "There is still a chance to achieve a good and sustainable exit accord," Merkel told parliament ahead of a crunch EU summit in Brussels that will focus on Brexit. "At the same time it is of course part of responsible and forward-looking governance that we prepare for all scenarios. That includes the possibility that Britain will leave the EU without a deal." British Prime Minister Theresa May told her ministers on Tuesday they would secure a Brexit deal if they stood together, calling for a show of unity to silence those pressing her to rethink her strategy for leaving the European Union. A day before heading to Brussels for a summit, May is keen to show she has her cabinet's support after facing pressure from some members of her Conservative Party and the EU to change tack on Brexit, Britain's biggest policy shift in more than 40 years. Merkel said the efforts to find agreement were like "squaring the circle". Less than six months before Britain is due to leave, the impasse has increased the possibility of a 'no deal' Brexit that could potentially disrupt trade, delay movement of goods and starve the world's fifth largest economy of investment. May's spokesman said the cabinet had held "a very detailed and thorough discussion" on the border issue, with the team united in rejecting any deal that would split the United Kingdom and might "trap" Britain in the backstop indefinitely. "The PM said there will no doubt be challenging moments ahead, that is in the nature of negotiations. She said she is committed to securing a Brexit that delivers on the referendum result, safeguards jobs and security, and which preserves our union," her spokesman told reporters.

Merkel says 'still a chance' for deal on Brexit

Critics of Theresa May's plans to leave the European Union stepped up the pressure on the prime minister on Sunday, with one former minister saying her cabinet team should exert its authority to force her to change course.

With less than six months before Brexit day and just days before May heads to Brussels for a summit, former Brexit minister David Davis pressed May to abandon her proposal for leaving the European Union, saying the bloc "has rejected it. The public does not like it. Parliament will not vote for it".

The head of a Northern Irish party that props up her government also raised the stakes, saying it was ready to trigger a so-called no deal Brexit to prevent what it called "the annexation" of the British province by the EU.

So far, May has shown little appetite to change tack in her strategy to leave the EU, pressing her plan and trying to persuade lawmakers in her Conservative Party and in opposition Labour to vote for any deal based on it in parliament.

Davis, who resigned his post in July, criticised the government for accepting "the EU's language on dealing with the Northern Ireland border" last December, said it was now up to senior ministers to use their influence.

"This is one of the most fundamental decisions that government has taken in modern times. It is time for cabinet members to exert their collective authority," wrote Davis, who campaigned for Britain to leave the EU in the 2016 referendum.

"This week the authority of our constitution is on the line," he said in an article in the Sunday Times.

Lobbying of May from all sides of the Brexit debate has increased in recent weeks as London and Brussels edge closer to an agreement on a draft withdrawal treaty to cover the divorce terms, a transition period and a solution for Northern Ireland.

Preventing any return of a hard border between the British province and EU member Ireland has become one of the major obstacles to such an agreement, with Brexit campaigners fearful that a non time-limited backstop will keep Britain inside a customs union with the bloc indefinitely.

May insists any customs arrangement as part of the backstop must be temporary, but the EU has refused to set an end date.

TEMPORARY

Health minister Matt Hancock suggested the backstop could be temporary without such a date, an argument that may fall flat for some eurosceptic lawmakers who are calling for May to "chuck Chequers", her Brexit plan named after her country residence.

"There are different ways to ensure that something is time limited. There are different ways of doing that. For instance, you can set conditions at the point at which the arrangements come to an end," he told the BBC.

Even if May reaches agreement with the Brussels on a withdrawal agreement, she will face a struggle to get any deal through parliament and may even find opposition from her Northern Irish partners to other legislation such as the budget.

"I fully appreciate the risks of a 'no deal' but the dangers of a bad deal are worse," Arlene Foster, head of the Democratic Unionist Party, wrote in an article in the Belfast Telegraph.

"This backstop arrangement would not be temporary. It would be the permanent annexation of Northern Ireland away from the rest of the United Kingdom and forever leave us subject to rules made in a place where we have no say."

Eurosceptic lawmakers in her Conservative Party are also concerned about a backstop, fearing it could keep Britain in the EU's sphere of influence possible forever and stop the country from striking new trade deals with the rest of the world.

Davis' words were clearly targeted at several Brexit supporters in May's cabinet of top ministers after there were reports that some were considering their position after being updated on the state of the Brexit talks.

But Iain Duncan Smith, a former Conservative leader and eurosceptic lawmaker, urged caution, saying it was not time to try to bring down the prime minister and replace her with someone else.

Critics of Theresa May's plans to leave the European Union stepped up the pressure on the prime minister on Sunday, with one former minister saying her cabinet team should exert its authority to force her to change course.

Critics of Theresa May's plans to leave the European Union stepped up the pressure on the prime minister on Sunday, with one former minister saying her cabinet team should exert its authority to force her to change course. With less than six months before Brexit day and just days before May heads to Brussels for a summit, former Brexit minister David Davis pressed May to abandon her proposal for leaving the European Union, saying the bloc "has rejected it. The public does not like it. Parliament will not vote for it". The head of a Northern Irish party that props up her government also raised the stakes, saying it was ready to trigger a so-called no deal Brexit to prevent what it called "the annexation" of the British province by the EU. So far, May has shown little appetite to change tack in her strategy to leave the EU, pressing her plan and trying to persuade lawmakers in her Conservative Party and in opposition Labour to vote for any deal based on it in parliament. Davis, who resigned his post in July, criticised the government for accepting "the EU's language on dealing with the Northern Ireland border" last December, said it was now up to senior ministers to use their influence. "This is one of the most fundamental decisions that government has taken in modern times. It is time for cabinet members to exert their collective authority," wrote Davis, who campaigned for Britain to leave the EU in the 2016 referendum. "This week the authority of our constitution is on the line," he said in an article in the Sunday Times. Lobbying of May from all sides of the Brexit debate has increased in recent weeks as London and Brussels edge closer to an agreement on a draft withdrawal treaty to cover the divorce terms, a transition period and a solution for Northern Ireland. Preventing any return of a hard border between the British province and EU member Ireland has become one of the major obstacles to such an agreement, with Brexit campaigners fearful that a non time-limited backstop will keep Britain inside a customs union with the bloc indefinitely. May insists any customs arrangement as part of the backstop must be temporary, but the EU has refused to set an end date. TEMPORARY Health minister Matt Hancock suggested the backstop could be temporary without such a date, an argument that may fall flat for some eurosceptic lawmakers who are calling for May to "chuck Chequers", her Brexit plan named after her country residence. "There are different ways to ensure that something is time limited. There are different ways of doing that. For instance, you can set conditions at the point at which the arrangements come to an end," he told the BBC. Even if May reaches agreement with the Brussels on a withdrawal agreement, she will face a struggle to get any deal through parliament and may even find opposition from her Northern Irish partners to other legislation such as the budget. "I fully appreciate the risks of a 'no deal' but the dangers of a bad deal are worse," Arlene Foster, head of the Democratic Unionist Party, wrote in an article in the Belfast Telegraph. "This backstop arrangement would not be temporary. It would be the permanent annexation of Northern Ireland away from the rest of the United Kingdom and forever leave us subject to rules made in a place where we have no say." Eurosceptic lawmakers in her Conservative Party are also concerned about a backstop, fearing it could keep Britain in the EU's sphere of influence possible forever and stop the country from striking new trade deals with the rest of the world. Davis' words were clearly targeted at several Brexit supporters in May's cabinet of top ministers after there were reports that some were considering their position after being updated on the state of the Brexit talks. But Iain Duncan Smith, a former Conservative leader and eurosceptic lawmaker, urged caution, saying it was not time to try to bring down the prime minister and replace her with someone else.

Former minister calls on UK cabinet to make May change mind on Brexit

Next week's EU summit has been billed as the last chance to negotiate an orderly Brexit, but is the cliff edge really that close? When is the true deadline?

Officials from both London and Brussels say the draft of a Brexit deal must be reached by the summit dinner on October 17, or at the very most by mid-November.&nbsp;

This is supposed to give Prime Minister Theresa May time to get a text approved by the British parliament in time for the March 29 divorce deadline. &nbsp;&nbsp;

But some European officials hint privately that the dates are not immoveable and all the recent urgency unnecessary. Can EU leaders kick the can down the road?

Brussels deadline&nbsp;

For Europe, the March deadline is purely technical, based on a never-used Article 50 process that dictates the timeline of a divorce from the EU.

Under Article 50 of the EU treaties, the two sides have two years to negotiate a divorce agreement.&nbsp;

Britain launched that process on March 29, 2017, so -- as far as European officials are concerned -- the deadline is that same date two years later.

But Britain's withdrawal deal will require ratification by the European Parliament.

MEPs, led by their Brexit coordinator liberal leader Guy Verhofstadt, will &nbsp;make a lot of noise.

But few believe parliament will slow down or even block a landmark deal forged in fire by the 28 EU leaders.

In fact, insiders say the European Parliament could vote immediately before the March 30 cliff edge.

"Parliament could vote on a withdrawal agreement up until about March 25 or 26, assuming that the March 29 Brexit date holds," a parliamentary source said.

"It would certainly not be desirable for the decision to be taken so tight up to the deadline, but ... it is technically possible," the source added.

The last session of the European Parliament is on April 18 before it breaks up for EU elections in late May.

So -- even if Brexit negotiations veer off course -- the Article 50 deadline can not be extended far.

London deadline&nbsp;

British officials chafe at any casual attitude to the deadline.

"People need to realise that this vote may be the most important of our lifetime. That it's just not going to be fudged and rushed through," one said.

Indeed, British negotiators say Brexit talks with EU officials can continue into mid-November and no further.

That is because, if May is to avoid a no-deal catastrophe, she will need to provide as much time as possible for lawmakers to debate and approve the divorce.

A Brexit deal in October already leaves the "extremely compressed," wrote the Institute for Government, a Britain think tank.

If negotiations slip behind, passing the legislation in time will be a "heroic" task, it warned.

The EU withdrawal will be a landmark vote for Britain and experts cite previous major EU treaties passed by the UK parliament as a benchmark for the time needed.

The EU treaties of Rome and Maastricht each took around 40 sitting days to go through both the House of Commons and the House of Lords.

Before Brexit day there are about 70 sitting days between a theoretical deal mid-November, and around 50 from the already scheduled EU summit in December.

Next week's EU summit has been billed as the last chance to negotiate an orderly Brexit, but is the cliff edge really that close? When is the true deadline? Officials from both London and Brussels say the draft of a Brexit deal must be reached by the summit dinner on October 17, or at the very most by mid-November.

Next week's EU summit has been billed as the last chance to negotiate an orderly Brexit, but is the cliff edge really that close? When is the true deadline? Officials from both London and Brussels say the draft of a Brexit deal must be reached by the summit dinner on October 17, or at the very most by mid-November. This is supposed to give Prime Minister Theresa May time to get a text approved by the British parliament in time for the March 29 divorce deadline. But some European officials hint privately that the dates are not immoveable and all the recent urgency unnecessary. Can EU leaders kick the can down the road? Brussels deadline For Europe, the March deadline is purely technical, based on a never-used Article 50 process that dictates the timeline of a divorce from the EU. Under Article 50 of the EU treaties, the two sides have two years to negotiate a divorce agreement. Britain launched that process on March 29, 2017, so -- as far as European officials are concerned -- the deadline is that same date two years later. But Britain's withdrawal deal will require ratification by the European Parliament. MEPs, led by their Brexit coordinator liberal leader Guy Verhofstadt, will make a lot of noise. But few believe parliament will slow down or even block a landmark deal forged in fire by the 28 EU leaders. In fact, insiders say the European Parliament could vote immediately before the March 30 cliff edge. "Parliament could vote on a withdrawal agreement up until about March 25 or 26, assuming that the March 29 Brexit date holds," a parliamentary source said. "It would certainly not be desirable for the decision to be taken so tight up to the deadline, but ... it is technically possible," the source added. The last session of the European Parliament is on April 18 before it breaks up for EU elections in late May. So -- even if Brexit negotiations veer off course -- the Article 50 deadline can not be extended far. London deadline British officials chafe at any casual attitude to the deadline. "People need to realise that this vote may be the most important of our lifetime. That it's just not going to be fudged and rushed through," one said. Indeed, British negotiators say Brexit talks with EU officials can continue into mid-November and no further. That is because, if May is to avoid a no-deal catastrophe, she will need to provide as much time as possible for lawmakers to debate and approve the divorce. A Brexit deal in October already leaves the "extremely compressed," wrote the Institute for Government, a Britain think tank. If negotiations slip behind, passing the legislation in time will be a "heroic" task, it warned. The EU withdrawal will be a landmark vote for Britain and experts cite previous major EU treaties passed by the UK parliament as a benchmark for the time needed. The EU treaties of Rome and Maastricht each took around 40 sitting days to go through both the House of Commons and the House of Lords. Before Brexit day there are about 70 sitting days between a theoretical deal mid-November, and around 50 from the already scheduled EU summit in December.

What is the 'real' Brexit deadline?

British Prime Minister Theresa May was struggling on Friday to find consensus on Brexit proposals that would be acceptable to her ministers, her Conservative Party and the Northern Irish lawmakers who prop up her minority government.&nbsp;

Brexit negotiations with the European Union have accelerated and become more positive over the past week, though significant hurdles remain, finance minister Philip Hammond said.

"What has happened over the last week, 10 days, is that there has been a measurable change in pace," he told the BBC.&nbsp;

"But that shouldn`t conceal the fact that we still have some big differences left to resolve," Hammond said. "So process is a lot more positive this week - substance still very challenging."

With less than six months to go until the United Kingdom is due to leave the EU, May is seeking to rally support at home on the details of a divorce deal though it is unclear if she can win parliament`s approval for any agreement.

British and EU negotiators are making headway on the Irish border issue, the biggest hurdle to an overall agreement, and hope for a Brexit deal breakthrough on Monday, diplomats said.

The Irish border "backstop", which seeks a way to avoid customs checks on the frontier between the British province of Northern Ireland and Ireland if there is no overall exit deal, has become the biggest sticking point in negotiations.

As both sides seek to clinch a deal, the United Kingdom will publish on Friday more of its so-called technical notices which lay out the impact of a no-deal Brexit on specific sectors of the economy.

Deal or No-Deal?

May's Northern Irish supporters vehemently oppose any checks between the province and mainland Britain after Brexit.

The head of the Democratic Unionist Party, Arlene Foster, said May "could not in good conscience" back an EU proposal for checks on goods being imported to Northern Ireland from Britain after Brexit.

Under May's proposals, the whole of the United Kingdom would forge a customs partnership with the EU after a transition period ends in December 2020 in the event of the backstop being triggered.

Some of May's ministers have urged her to put a time limit on that plan.&nbsp;

Britain`s international trade, environment and Brexit ministers told May at a meeting on Thursday that they fear the whole of Britain could remain in the EU customs union for an open-ended period, the BBC said.

May will never agree to a backstop plan that means Britain could be permanently tied to the bloc`s customs rules, her spokeswoman said on Friday. "The prime minister would never agree to a deal which could trap the UK in a backstop permanently," she said.

The Times newspaper reported May was warned the issue was so serious that she could face further cabinet resignations unless she found a way to ensure the backstop was not permanent.&nbsp;

Speaking to Northern Ireland journalists at her Downing Street office, May said on Thursday that talks on the Irish backstop were likely to continue until November.&nbsp;

British Prime Minister Theresa May was struggling on Friday to find consensus on Brexit proposals that would be acceptable to her ministers, her Conservative Party and the Northern Irish lawmakers who prop up her minority government.

British Prime Minister Theresa May was struggling on Friday to find consensus on Brexit proposals that would be acceptable to her ministers, her Conservative Party and the Northern Irish lawmakers who prop up her minority government. Brexit negotiations with the European Union have accelerated and become more positive over the past week, though significant hurdles remain, finance minister Philip Hammond said. "What has happened over the last week, 10 days, is that there has been a measurable change in pace," he told the BBC. "But that shouldn`t conceal the fact that we still have some big differences left to resolve," Hammond said. "So process is a lot more positive this week - substance still very challenging." With less than six months to go until the United Kingdom is due to leave the EU, May is seeking to rally support at home on the details of a divorce deal though it is unclear if she can win parliament`s approval for any agreement. British and EU negotiators are making headway on the Irish border issue, the biggest hurdle to an overall agreement, and hope for a Brexit deal breakthrough on Monday, diplomats said. The Irish border "backstop", which seeks a way to avoid customs checks on the frontier between the British province of Northern Ireland and Ireland if there is no overall exit deal, has become the biggest sticking point in negotiations. As both sides seek to clinch a deal, the United Kingdom will publish on Friday more of its so-called technical notices which lay out the impact of a no-deal Brexit on specific sectors of the economy. Deal or No-Deal? May's Northern Irish supporters vehemently oppose any checks between the province and mainland Britain after Brexit. The head of the Democratic Unionist Party, Arlene Foster, said May "could not in good conscience" back an EU proposal for checks on goods being imported to Northern Ireland from Britain after Brexit. Under May's proposals, the whole of the United Kingdom would forge a customs partnership with the EU after a transition period ends in December 2020 in the event of the backstop being triggered. Some of May's ministers have urged her to put a time limit on that plan. Britain`s international trade, environment and Brexit ministers told May at a meeting on Thursday that they fear the whole of Britain could remain in the EU customs union for an open-ended period, the BBC said. May will never agree to a backstop plan that means Britain could be permanently tied to the bloc`s customs rules, her spokeswoman said on Friday. "The prime minister would never agree to a deal which could trap the UK in a backstop permanently," she said. The Times newspaper reported May was warned the issue was so serious that she could face further cabinet resignations unless she found a way to ensure the backstop was not permanent. Speaking to Northern Ireland journalists at her Downing Street office, May said on Thursday that talks on the Irish backstop were likely to continue until November.

As Brexit talks progress, UK PM May struggles to find support at home

Top EU officials were warned Wednesday to make plans to cope with the fallout from a "no-deal" Brexit as their chief negotiator said talks with Britain must make more progress before next week's crunch summit.

EU Brexit pointman Michel Barnier and Martin Selmayr, the powerful head of the EU Commission's bureaucracy, briefed commissioners on progress just a week before the October 18 meeting that has been dubbed a "moment of truth."

According to spokesman Margaritis Schinas, Barnier "recalled that decisive progress must be made in time for the October European Council next week and negotiations at technical level will continue this week."

Selmayr meanwhile "provided a brief update on the state of play of the Commission preparedness work and recalled the importance for all stakeholders to prepare for all outcomes and at all levels."

Selmayr, secretary general of the European Commission, has been tasked with coordinating preparedness to protect the EU from economic and political damage if Britain leaves the bloc on March 29 next year without a divorce deal in place.

Barnier is attempting to negotiate such a deal, but time is running out and EU leaders have made it clear that they expect Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May to come up with a way to unblock talks before next week.

Dimitris Avramopoulos, the EU commissioner for migration and home affairs, said Barnier had briefed the body on the state of play in the negotiations.

"Michel Barnier and his team are working day and night to reach a deal, but we are not there yet," he said. He referred further questions to Barnier, who was due to make a speech to European business leaders later in the day. &nbsp;

Top EU officials were warned Wednesday to make plans to cope with the fallout from a "no-deal" Brexit as their chief negotiator said talks with Britain must make more progress before next week's crunch summit.

Top EU officials were warned Wednesday to make plans to cope with the fallout from a "no-deal" Brexit as their chief negotiator said talks with Britain must make more progress before next week's crunch summit. EU Brexit pointman Michel Barnier and Martin Selmayr, the powerful head of the EU Commission's bureaucracy, briefed commissioners on progress just a week before the October 18 meeting that has been dubbed a "moment of truth." According to spokesman Margaritis Schinas, Barnier "recalled that decisive progress must be made in time for the October European Council next week and negotiations at technical level will continue this week." Selmayr meanwhile "provided a brief update on the state of play of the Commission preparedness work and recalled the importance for all stakeholders to prepare for all outcomes and at all levels." Selmayr, secretary general of the European Commission, has been tasked with coordinating preparedness to protect the EU from economic and political damage if Britain leaves the bloc on March 29 next year without a divorce deal in place. Barnier is attempting to negotiate such a deal, but time is running out and EU leaders have made it clear that they expect Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May to come up with a way to unblock talks before next week. Dimitris Avramopoulos, the EU commissioner for migration and home affairs, said Barnier had briefed the body on the state of play in the negotiations. "Michel Barnier and his team are working day and night to reach a deal, but we are not there yet," he said. He referred further questions to Barnier, who was due to make a speech to European business leaders later in the day.

EU officials warned to prepare for no-deal Brexit

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