Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Tuesday he would not request an extension to Brexit, hours after a law came into force demanding that he delay Britain's departure from the European Union until 2020 unless he can strike a divorce deal.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Tuesday he would not request an extension to Brexit, hours after a law came into force demanding that he delay Britain's departure from the European Union until 2020 unless he can strike a divorce deal. For the second time in a week, lawmakers then rejected Johnson's request to try to break the deadlock through an early national election. With the future of Brexit mired in uncertainty, parliament was suspended until Oct. 14, sparking tense scenes in the House of Commons where opposition lawmakers held signs reading "silenced" and yelled "shame on you" at Johnson's ruling Conservatives. Johnson appeared to have lost control of Britain's withdrawal from the European Union with the approval of the law, which obliges him to seek a delay unless he can strike a new deal at an EU summit next month. EU leaders have repeatedly said they have not received specific proposals ahead of an EU summit on Oct. 17 and 18, at which Johnson says he hopes he can secure a deal. "This government will press on with negotiating a deal, while preparing to leave without one," Johnson told parliament after the result of the vote on an early election. "I will go to that crucial summit on October the 17th and no matter how many devices this parliament invents to tie my hands, I will strive to get an agreement in the national interest ... This government will not delay Brexit any further." Watch: Another blow to Boris' Brexit plan, Work & Pension Minister Amber Rudd resigns from the govt × Opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn said the party was eager for an election, but would not support Johnson's move to hold one until it was certain a delay to Brexit had been secured. "As keen as we are, we are not prepared to risk inflicting the disaster of no-deal on our communities," Corbyn said. Brexit, the United Kingdom's most significant geopolitical move in decades, remains in question more than three years since the 2016 referendum, with possible outcomes ranging from an exit on Oct. 31 without a withdrawal agreement to smooth the transition, to abandoning the whole endeavour. The bill seeking to block a no-deal exit, passed into law on Monday when it received assent from Queen Elizabeth, will force Johnson to seek a three-month extension to the Oct. 31 deadline unless parliament has either approved a deal or consented by Oct. 19 to leave without one. Responding to concerns the government could ignore the legislation, Foreign Minister Dominic Raab earlier told parliament that the government would respect the rule of law but added, "Sometimes it can be more complex because there are conflicting laws or competing legal advice." Johnson took over as prime minister in July after his predecessor, Theresa May, failed to push the Withdrawal Agreement through parliament. Parliament returned from its summer break last week, and Johnson has lost all six votes held in the House of Commons since. The suspension of parliament, or prorogation, will last for five weeks. Under Johnson's premiership, Britain's three-year Brexit crisis has stepped up a gear, leaving financial markets and businesses bewildered by an array of political decisions that diplomats compare to the style of U.S. President Donald Trump. BlackRock, a U.S. investment firm that manages $6.8 trillion of assets, said a no-deal Brexit or a referendum had become more plausible. The pound trimmed gains against the dollar <GBP=D3>, to stand slightly higher on Monday at $1.234. It jumped to a six-week high of $1.2385 in London trading after economic data beat forecasts.

British PM Johnson tells parliament: You can tie my hands, but I will not delay Brexit

Both houses of the UK parliament passed a law to stop 'No Deal Brexit' on 31st October. Watch this video to know more.

Both houses of UK parliament passed a law to stop 'No Deal Brexit' on 31st October

As Britain stares at another election, PM Johnson said that he wasn't contemplating <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-opposition-parties-discuss-pm-johnsons-brexit-election-gamble-247990">resigning over the Brexit deal</a> which has got entangled in Parliament.

"That is not a hypothesis I'm willing to contemplate," Johnson said when asked by a reporter on whether he would resign over the Brexit row.

The European Union has set October 31 as the deadline for Britain to exit entity, however, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/johnson-in-election-mode-as-he-visits-scotland-after-brexit-setbacks-247908">British Parliament is adamant </a>Johnson cannot walk out with a no-deal. On Thursday, the British prime minister had said he would "rather be dead in a ditch" than delay Brexit.

The House of Commons had voted against Johnson's no-deal Brexit plan on Wednesday as Britain continued to reel in indecision. Johnson is now contemplating snap polls, however, the British Parliament has been adamant against it, despite this, Johnson has put himself on election mode.

"Boris will argue that it is now time for the people to decide after parliament has failed them, so we can resolve this once and for all," a spokesman for the prime minister said,&nbsp;adding," Jeremy Corbyn continues not only to block Brexit but is now also stopping the people from having their say by refusing a general election."

Britain in a referendum had voted against staying in the European Union in 2016 leading to the resignation of former prime minister Cameron, later Theresa May resigned as her party lost confidence in her to deliver Brexit.

Johnson was the face of "Vote Leave" campaign during the refrendum.

On Wednesday, the British Parliament had voted 329 to 300 forcing the government not to leave the EU without a deal allowing a three-month Brexit delay.

As Britain stares at another election, PM Johnson said that he wasn't contemplating resigning over the Brexit deal which has got entangled in Parliament. "That is not a hypothesis I'm willing to contemplate," Johnson said when asked by a reporter on whether he would resign over the Brexit row.

As Britain stares at another election, PM Johnson said that he wasn't contemplating resigning over the Brexit deal which has got entangled in Parliament. "That is not a hypothesis I'm willing to contemplate," Johnson said when asked by a reporter on whether he would resign over the Brexit row. The European Union has set October 31 as the deadline for Britain to exit entity, however, the British Parliament is adamant Johnson cannot walk out with a no-deal. On Thursday, the British prime minister had said he would "rather be dead in a ditch" than delay Brexit. The House of Commons had voted against Johnson's no-deal Brexit plan on Wednesday as Britain continued to reel in indecision. Johnson is now contemplating snap polls, however, the British Parliament has been adamant against it, despite this, Johnson has put himself on election mode. "Boris will argue that it is now time for the people to decide after parliament has failed them, so we can resolve this once and for all," a spokesman for the prime minister said, adding," Jeremy Corbyn continues not only to block Brexit but is now also stopping the people from having their say by refusing a general election." Britain in a referendum had voted against staying in the European Union in 2016 leading to the resignation of former prime minister Cameron, later Theresa May resigned as her party lost confidence in her to deliver Brexit. Johnson was the face of "Vote Leave" campaign during the refrendum. On Wednesday, the British Parliament had voted 329 to 300 forcing the government not to leave the EU without a deal allowing a three-month Brexit delay.

Not a hypothesis I'm willing to contemplate, Johnson on resignation over Brexit

The leader of the Britain's House of Commons, Jacob Rees-Mogg, adopted a laid-back posture on the benches as lawmakers debated an opposition motion to take control of parliamentary business in order to legally rule out a no-deal Brexit.

UK: Leader snoozes during Brexit debate

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson lost his working <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-am-absolutely-ready-to-fight-elections-british-labour-leader-jeremy-corbyn-247444">parliamentary majority ahead </a>of a crucial Brexit vote on Tuesday after Conservative MP Phillip Lee defected to the pro-EU Liberal Democrats.

"The Liberal Democrats are delighted to announce that Bracknell MP Phillip Lee has joined the party," the Lib Dems said in a statement.

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After a great deal of thought, I have reached the conclusion that it is no longer possible to serve my constituents’ and country’s best interests as a Conservative Member of Parliament. My letter to the Prime Minister: <a href="https://t.co/0QreSbSdwR">pic.twitter.com/0QreSbSdwR</a>
— Dr Phillip Lee MP (@DrPhillipLeeMP) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrPhillipLeeMP/status/1168898191103864832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"After a great deal of thought, I have reached the conclusion that it is no longer possible to serve my constituents’ and country’s best interests as a Conservative member of Parliament," Lee said in his tweet while publishing his resignation letter.

"This Conservative government is aggressively pursuing a damaging <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-lose-16-billion-in-eu-exports-in-case-of-no-deal-brexit-un-247458">Brexit in unprincipled</a> ways," said Lee.

"It is using political manipulation, bullying and lies. And it is doing these things in a deliberate and considered way," he added.&nbsp;

Liberal Democrat leader Jo Swinson said she was "delighted" by the defection.

"He shares our commitment to prevent a disastrous No Deal Brexit, and to stop Brexit altogether," she said.&nbsp;

Addressing the British Parliament PM Johnson said: "We will deliver Brexit," adding," there will be no pointless delay."

"We need to respect the people's referendum," the British prime minister added.

"We will get the deal by October 31," Johnson assured Parliament.&nbsp;Johnson added that he would be making his first visit to Ireland on Monday.

"I will be discussing it with the Taoiseach (Prime Minister) Leo Varadkar when I see him in Dublin on Monday," Johnson told the British Parliament.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson lost his working parliamentary majority ahead of a crucial Brexit vote on Tuesday after Conservative MP Phillip Lee defected to the pro-EU Liberal Democrats.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson lost his working parliamentary majority ahead of a crucial Brexit vote on Tuesday after Conservative MP Phillip Lee defected to the pro-EU Liberal Democrats. "The Liberal Democrats are delighted to announce that Bracknell MP Phillip Lee has joined the party," the Lib Dems said in a statement. After a great deal of thought, I have reached the conclusion that it is no longer possible to serve my constituents’ and country’s best interests as a Conservative Member of Parliament. My letter to the Prime Minister: pic.twitter.com/0QreSbSdwR — Dr Phillip Lee MP (@DrPhillipLeeMP) September 3, 2019 × "After a great deal of thought, I have reached the conclusion that it is no longer possible to serve my constituents’ and country’s best interests as a Conservative member of Parliament," Lee said in his tweet while publishing his resignation letter. "This Conservative government is aggressively pursuing a damaging Brexit in unprincipled ways," said Lee. "It is using political manipulation, bullying and lies. And it is doing these things in a deliberate and considered way," he added. Liberal Democrat leader Jo Swinson said she was "delighted" by the defection. "He shares our commitment to prevent a disastrous No Deal Brexit, and to stop Brexit altogether," she said. Addressing the British Parliament PM Johnson said: "We will deliver Brexit," adding," there will be no pointless delay." "We need to respect the people's referendum," the British prime minister added. "We will get the deal by October 31," Johnson assured Parliament. Johnson added that he would be making his first visit to Ireland on Monday. "I will be discussing it with the Taoiseach (Prime Minister) Leo Varadkar when I see him in Dublin on Monday," Johnson told the British Parliament.

UK PM Johnson loses parliamentary majority ahead of Brexit vote

There are all eyes on the Palace of Westminister. Only 59 days left for the Brexit. Opposition MPs will try to take control of the proceedings. Reports claimed that conservatives lose the majority. There is a massive protest outside the house as well. Watch this video to know more.

Report: Conservatives lose majority in UK Parliament during Brexit showdown

There are all eyes on the Palace of Westminister. Only 59 days left for the Brexit. Opposition MPs will try to take control of the proceedings. There is massive protest outside the house as well. Watch this video to know more.

Your Story: Brexit showdown at British Parliament, 59 days to Brexit

British Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-endgame-its-pm-boris-johnson-versus-parliament-in-historic-showdown-246685">Boris Johnson</a> on Friday warned any attempt by MPs next week to stop Brexit or delay it beyond October 31 would do "lasting damage" to public trust in politics.

Johnson said Britons had decided to leave the European Union in the 2016 referendum and MPs had promised multiple times to uphold that decision.

"If we stop the UK from leaving on October 31, if that's what parliamentarians end up doing, it will do lasting damage to people's trust in politics," he told Sky News television.

"It will do lasting and catastrophic damage to the major parties in this country. This political generation won't be forgiven for failing to honour that promise."

Opposition MPs and some lawmakers from Johnson's own Conservatives have said they want to legislate to prevent a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-endgame-its-pm-boris-johnson-versus-parliament-in-historic-showdown-246685">no-deal Brexit</a>, which the government's own assessment warns could cause food, fuel and medicine shortages.

But Johnson said that preparing for a no-deal Brexit would allow the government to clinch an agreement with Brussels.

"I'm afraid that the more our friends and partners think, at the back of their minds, that Brexit could be stopped, that the UK could be kept in by parliament, the less likely they are to give us the deal that we need," he said.

Johnson on Wednesday moved to suspend parliament in the final weeks before Brexit in what was widely seen as a move to limit the parliamentary time for his opponents.

Queen Elizabeth II, on his advice, gave the go-ahead to shutter parliament between mid-September and October 14 -- just two weeks before the Brexit date of October 31.

The move sent shockwaves through British politics, triggering a furious outcry from pro-Europeans and MPs opposed to a no-deal exit.

Wrong-footed, Johnson's opponents labelled the suspension of parliament a "coup" and a "constitutional outrage".

The decision is being challenged in several legal cases.

Judge Raymond Doherty on Friday rejected a request for a temporary block on the suspension decision but will hear the full case at a further hearing in Edinburgh on Tuesday.

Former prime minister John Major, a strong supporter of EU membership, said he will seek to join a separate case in London, which is due to be heard in court on Thursday.&nbsp;

'Step up the tempo'

Britain's Brexit negotiators are to meet their EU counterparts twice a week throughout September in a bid to reach a new divorce agreement.

Johnson said he wants to "step up the tempo" in talks with the EU to strike a new Brexit deal.

Johnson wants the so-called backstop, the fallback provisions regarding the Irish border, scrapped completely.

But there are growing concerns among some major players in the EU that Britain will not be able to come up with realistic alternatives in time.

A spokesperson for the European Commission said they were willing to work "24/7 throughout this long process".

"We expect the UK to come forward with concrete proposals, as President (Jean-Claude) Juncker made clear to Prime Minister Johnson earlier this week."

The backstop is included in a divorce deal that the EU agreed with Johnson's predecessor, Theresa May, which Britain's parliament has rejected three times.

Ireland's Foreign Minister Simon Coveney said Britain had come up with "nothing credible" to replace the backstop.

Protests in the streets

Beyond the courts, Johnson's opponents are planning other moves to stop him in his tracks.

Shami Chakrabarti, Labour's chief legal advisor, warned on BBC radio: "We will use any means necessary to prevent this undemocratic behaviour -- that includes people taking to the streets."

Protests are planned Saturday in several cities, with some organisers calling for roads and bridges to be occupied.

The leaders of the six opposition parties in parliament said they believed a majority of MPs were against Johnson's move.

"The prime minister is shutting down parliament with the sole aim of stopping MPs from avoiding a no-deal Brexit," they said on the suspension.

Opponents want to legislate to prevent Britain leaving the EU without a deal, and to stop the suspension of parliament.

They are also mulling a no-confidence vote in Johnson's Conservative government, which commands a fragile 320 to 319 majority.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Friday warned any attempt by MPs next week to stop Brexit or delay it beyond October 31 would do "lasting damage" to public trust in politics.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Friday warned any attempt by MPs next week to stop Brexit or delay it beyond October 31 would do "lasting damage" to public trust in politics. Johnson said Britons had decided to leave the European Union in the 2016 referendum and MPs had promised multiple times to uphold that decision. "If we stop the UK from leaving on October 31, if that's what parliamentarians end up doing, it will do lasting damage to people's trust in politics," he told Sky News television. "It will do lasting and catastrophic damage to the major parties in this country. This political generation won't be forgiven for failing to honour that promise." Opposition MPs and some lawmakers from Johnson's own Conservatives have said they want to legislate to prevent a no-deal Brexit, which the government's own assessment warns could cause food, fuel and medicine shortages. But Johnson said that preparing for a no-deal Brexit would allow the government to clinch an agreement with Brussels. "I'm afraid that the more our friends and partners think, at the back of their minds, that Brexit could be stopped, that the UK could be kept in by parliament, the less likely they are to give us the deal that we need," he said. Johnson on Wednesday moved to suspend parliament in the final weeks before Brexit in what was widely seen as a move to limit the parliamentary time for his opponents. Queen Elizabeth II, on his advice, gave the go-ahead to shutter parliament between mid-September and October 14 -- just two weeks before the Brexit date of October 31. The move sent shockwaves through British politics, triggering a furious outcry from pro-Europeans and MPs opposed to a no-deal exit. Wrong-footed, Johnson's opponents labelled the suspension of parliament a "coup" and a "constitutional outrage". The decision is being challenged in several legal cases. Judge Raymond Doherty on Friday rejected a request for a temporary block on the suspension decision but will hear the full case at a further hearing in Edinburgh on Tuesday. Former prime minister John Major, a strong supporter of EU membership, said he will seek to join a separate case in London, which is due to be heard in court on Thursday. 'Step up the tempo' Britain's Brexit negotiators are to meet their EU counterparts twice a week throughout September in a bid to reach a new divorce agreement. Johnson said he wants to "step up the tempo" in talks with the EU to strike a new Brexit deal. Johnson wants the so-called backstop, the fallback provisions regarding the Irish border, scrapped completely. But there are growing concerns among some major players in the EU that Britain will not be able to come up with realistic alternatives in time. A spokesperson for the European Commission said they were willing to work "24/7 throughout this long process". "We expect the UK to come forward with concrete proposals, as President (Jean-Claude) Juncker made clear to Prime Minister Johnson earlier this week." The backstop is included in a divorce deal that the EU agreed with Johnson's predecessor, Theresa May, which Britain's parliament has rejected three times. Ireland's Foreign Minister Simon Coveney said Britain had come up with "nothing credible" to replace the backstop. Protests in the streets Beyond the courts, Johnson's opponents are planning other moves to stop him in his tracks. Shami Chakrabarti, Labour's chief legal advisor, warned on BBC radio: "We will use any means necessary to prevent this undemocratic behaviour -- that includes people taking to the streets." Protests are planned Saturday in several cities, with some organisers calling for roads and bridges to be occupied. The leaders of the six opposition parties in parliament said they believed a majority of MPs were against Johnson's move. "The prime minister is shutting down parliament with the sole aim of stopping MPs from avoiding a no-deal Brexit," they said on the suspension. Opponents want to legislate to prevent Britain leaving the EU without a deal, and to stop the suspension of parliament. They are also mulling a no-confidence vote in Johnson's Conservative government, which commands a fragile 320 to 319 majority.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson warns MPs against trying to block Brexit

Sterling hit a two-year low on Monday as Prime Minister Boris Johnson's government said it now assumed there would be a <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/no-deal-brexit-had-become-a-serious-possibility-cbi-chief-carolyn-fairbairn-239206&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi9xcXFitrjAhVO7mEKHQlcAkYQFjABegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw07JQut3Vw9Gy2-8QTnDxFn">no-deal Brexit</a> because a "stubborn" European Union was refusing to renegotiate their divorce.

Many investors say a no-deal Brexit would send shock waves through the world economy, tip Britain's economy into a recession, roil financial markets and weaken London's position as the pre-eminent international financial centre.

The pound, which was trading at $1.50 on the day of the 2016 referendum, dropped 0.4% to $1.2325, the lowest level since March 2017.

Johnson bets that the threat of a no-deal Brexit will persuade the EU's biggest powers - Germany and France - to agree to revise the divorce deal that Theresa May agreed to last November but failed three times to push through the British parliament.

The 27 other EU members, though, say publicly and privately that the divorce settlement - including the Irish border backstop - is not up for barter. Many EU diplomats say an election is highly likely.

"There must be some change from the EU and if the EU is not willing to move at all we must be ready to give the country some finality," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-should-respect-international-laws-britains-foreign-minister-239218">Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab</a> said, adding that London was "turbo-charging" no-deal preparations.

Raab said the United Kingdom wanted a deal but repeatedly cast the bloc as "stubborn". Asked if he was threatening the EU - whose $15.9 trillion economy is nearly six times that of the United Kingdom's - Raab said: "I am not doing any threatening."

Hedge funds increased their net short sterling positions to the highest level in nearly a year. And in a sign investors are scrambling for protection against currency swings around the time of the October 31 exit, three-month implied volatility surged to a four-month high.

Johnson has told EU leaders he will sit down for Brexit talks when they indicate they are ready to shift on the divorce deal, otherwise Britain will prepare for leaving without a deal, his spokeswoman said on Monday.

Our&nbsp;Union

Differences over Brexit have strained the bonds that tie the United Kingdom. While the country voted 52-48 to leave in 2016, Scotland and Northern Ireland voted to stay in the EU while Wales and England vote to leave.

The question of the unification of Ireland and British-ruled Northern Ireland will inevitably arise if Britain leaves the European Union without a divorce deal on October 31, Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said.

Varadkar also suggested that a so-called hard Brexit could undermine Scotland's place in the United Kingdom.

Johnson makes his first visit to Scotland as prime minister on Monday, as his Conservative Party's leader there said she would refuse to support a no-deal Brexit.

"Our Union is the most successful political and economic union in history. We are a global brand and together we are safer, stronger and more prosperous," Johnson said in a statement ahead of the visit.

"So as we prepare for our bright future after Brexit, it's vital we renew the ties that bind our United Kingdom."

Johnson's promise to deliver Brexit, with or without a deal, has put him at odds with some in his party who oppose a "no-deal" exit - including its Scottish leader Ruth Davidson.

Gordon Brown, a Scot and a former prime minister, said this month that Johnson could be the United Kingdom's last prime minister as he could be on a collision course with Scottish nationalists.

Last week, Scotland's nationalist leader Nicola Sturgeon wrote to Johnson telling him his Brexit plans would hurt the Scottish economy and that she would continue preparations for a second independence referendum.

Sterling hit a two-year low on Monday as Prime Minister Boris Johnson's government said it now assumed there would be a no-deal Brexit because a "stubborn" European Union was refusing to renegotiate their divorce.

Sterling hit a two-year low on Monday as Prime Minister Boris Johnson's government said it now assumed there would be a no-deal Brexit because a "stubborn" European Union was refusing to renegotiate their divorce. Many investors say a no-deal Brexit would send shock waves through the world economy, tip Britain's economy into a recession, roil financial markets and weaken London's position as the pre-eminent international financial centre. The pound, which was trading at $1.50 on the day of the 2016 referendum, dropped 0.4% to $1.2325, the lowest level since March 2017. Johnson bets that the threat of a no-deal Brexit will persuade the EU's biggest powers - Germany and France - to agree to revise the divorce deal that Theresa May agreed to last November but failed three times to push through the British parliament. The 27 other EU members, though, say publicly and privately that the divorce settlement - including the Irish border backstop - is not up for barter. Many EU diplomats say an election is highly likely. "There must be some change from the EU and if the EU is not willing to move at all we must be ready to give the country some finality," Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said, adding that London was "turbo-charging" no-deal preparations. Raab said the United Kingdom wanted a deal but repeatedly cast the bloc as "stubborn". Asked if he was threatening the EU - whose $15.9 trillion economy is nearly six times that of the United Kingdom's - Raab said: "I am not doing any threatening." Hedge funds increased their net short sterling positions to the highest level in nearly a year. And in a sign investors are scrambling for protection against currency swings around the time of the October 31 exit, three-month implied volatility surged to a four-month high. Johnson has told EU leaders he will sit down for Brexit talks when they indicate they are ready to shift on the divorce deal, otherwise Britain will prepare for leaving without a deal, his spokeswoman said on Monday. Our Union Differences over Brexit have strained the bonds that tie the United Kingdom. While the country voted 52-48 to leave in 2016, Scotland and Northern Ireland voted to stay in the EU while Wales and England vote to leave. The question of the unification of Ireland and British-ruled Northern Ireland will inevitably arise if Britain leaves the European Union without a divorce deal on October 31, Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said. Varadkar also suggested that a so-called hard Brexit could undermine Scotland's place in the United Kingdom. Johnson makes his first visit to Scotland as prime minister on Monday, as his Conservative Party's leader there said she would refuse to support a no-deal Brexit. "Our Union is the most successful political and economic union in history. We are a global brand and together we are safer, stronger and more prosperous," Johnson said in a statement ahead of the visit. "So as we prepare for our bright future after Brexit, it's vital we renew the ties that bind our United Kingdom." Johnson's promise to deliver Brexit, with or without a deal, has put him at odds with some in his party who oppose a "no-deal" exit - including its Scottish leader Ruth Davidson. Gordon Brown, a Scot and a former prime minister, said this month that Johnson could be the United Kingdom's last prime minister as he could be on a collision course with Scottish nationalists. Last week, Scotland's nationalist leader Nicola Sturgeon wrote to Johnson telling him his Brexit plans would hurt the Scottish economy and that she would continue preparations for a second independence referendum.

UK plays hardball with 'stubborn' European Union, pound tumbles to a 28-month low on Brexit woes

Newly-appointed British Prime Minister Boris Johnson today <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-johnson-overhauls-cabinet-with-brexit-hardliners-238286">addressed the House of Commons</a> for the first time laying out his government's Brexit plan.

In his first address to the British Parliament, Prime Minister Johnson said his government's mission was to deliver Brexit by October 31.

"This government wants to make this country the greatest place on earth," PM Johnson said in his address.

"Terms of current withdrawal agreements are unacceptable to this Parliament and to this country," he asserted.

"The Irish backstop must be abolished to reach a Brexit deal," he said.

"I and all ministers are committed to leaving the EU on October 31, whatever the circumstances," he told British Parliamentarians.

In his reply, Opposition Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said: We will reject any Brexit deal that fails to protect jobs, workers' rights or environmental protections."

Soon after taking over as the prime minister, Johnson on Wednesday evening appointed his cabinet with Sajid Javed named as the new finance minister and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/five-facts-about-priti-patel-uks-first-indian-origin-home-secretary-238292">Priti Patel as interior minister</a>.

During the Cabinet meeting, Johnson said: "We are now committed all of us to leaving the European Union on October 31 or indeed earlier. No ifs, no buts."

The EU and Britain had agreed to reach an agreement by October 31, with just 98 days left, Johnson had expressed confidence that Britain would be able to meet the deadline during his inaugural speech at 10 Downing Street.

Newly-appointed British Prime Minister Boris Johnson today addressed the House of Commons for the first time laying out his government's Brexit plan. In his first address to the British Parliament, Prime Minister Johnson said his government's mission was to deliver Brexit by October 31.

Newly-appointed British Prime Minister Boris Johnson today addressed the House of Commons for the first time laying out his government's Brexit plan. In his first address to the British Parliament, Prime Minister Johnson said his government's mission was to deliver Brexit by October 31. "This government wants to make this country the greatest place on earth," PM Johnson said in his address. "Terms of current withdrawal agreements are unacceptable to this Parliament and to this country," he asserted. "The Irish backstop must be abolished to reach a Brexit deal," he said. "I and all ministers are committed to leaving the EU on October 31, whatever the circumstances," he told British Parliamentarians. In his reply, Opposition Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said: We will reject any Brexit deal that fails to protect jobs, workers' rights or environmental protections." Soon after taking over as the prime minister, Johnson on Wednesday evening appointed his cabinet with Sajid Javed named as the new finance minister and Priti Patel as interior minister. During the Cabinet meeting, Johnson said: "We are now committed all of us to leaving the European Union on October 31 or indeed earlier. No ifs, no buts." The EU and Britain had agreed to reach an agreement by October 31, with just 98 days left, Johnson had expressed confidence that Britain would be able to meet the deadline during his inaugural speech at 10 Downing Street.

Committed to leaving EU on October 31, whatever the circumstances: PM Boris Johnson in Parliament

The British government must submit a different<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/merkel-ally-floats-idea-of-broader-talks-with-uk-if-brexit-delayed-203652"> proposition to parliament to the one</a> it lost last week if it wants to hold another vote on its Brexit plans, the parliament's speaker, John Bercow, said on Monday.

Bercow, the ultimate arbiter of whether the government can ask parliament again to pass Prime Minister Theresa May's deal to leave the European Union, said ministers could not submit the same proposition again.

"This is my conclusion: if the government wishes to bring forward a new proposition that is neither the same, nor substantially the same as that disposed of by the house on the 12th of March, this would be entirely in order," he said.

"What the government cannot legitimately do is to resubmit to the House (of Commons) the same proposition or substantially the same proposition as that of last week which was rejected by 149 votes."

Meanwhile, Brexit-supporting Conservative lawmaker Jacob Rees-Mogg said on Monday that a bad exit deal was better than staying in the European Union, the strongest hint to date that he might support May's deal.

"This is a bad deal, the only reason for supporting it would be if the alternative was not leaving the European Union. I would prefer to leave now on the 29th of March without a deal and I think most people in Britain would like that too to get this over and done with," he said, adding,"But if the prime minister, off her own volition, is seeking to keep us in the European Union pretty much indefinitely that would be even worse."

German foreign minister Heiko Maas said on Monday it was worthwhile giving more time to reach an agreement with Britain over its exit from the European Union, although a long Brexit extension would be difficult.

"Before we get to a hard Brexit it's worthwhile having another go rather than just arguing about what a hard Brexit means, namely a lot of disadvantages for both sides," Maas told reporters before a meeting of EU foreign ministers.

Asked about whether Brexit could be extended beyond the European elections in May, he replied: "The longer the time is pushed back, the more difficult it becomes."

The British government must submit a different proposition to parliament to the one it lost last week if it wants to hold another vote on its Brexit plans, the parliament's speaker, John Bercow, said on Monday.

The British government must submit a different proposition to parliament to the one it lost last week if it wants to hold another vote on its Brexit plans, the parliament's speaker, John Bercow, said on Monday. Bercow, the ultimate arbiter of whether the government can ask parliament again to pass Prime Minister Theresa May's deal to leave the European Union, said ministers could not submit the same proposition again. "This is my conclusion: if the government wishes to bring forward a new proposition that is neither the same, nor substantially the same as that disposed of by the house on the 12th of March, this would be entirely in order," he said. "What the government cannot legitimately do is to resubmit to the House (of Commons) the same proposition or substantially the same proposition as that of last week which was rejected by 149 votes." Meanwhile, Brexit-supporting Conservative lawmaker Jacob Rees-Mogg said on Monday that a bad exit deal was better than staying in the European Union, the strongest hint to date that he might support May's deal. "This is a bad deal, the only reason for supporting it would be if the alternative was not leaving the European Union. I would prefer to leave now on the 29th of March without a deal and I think most people in Britain would like that too to get this over and done with," he said, adding,"But if the prime minister, off her own volition, is seeking to keep us in the European Union pretty much indefinitely that would be even worse." German foreign minister Heiko Maas said on Monday it was worthwhile giving more time to reach an agreement with Britain over its exit from the European Union, although a long Brexit extension would be difficult. "Before we get to a hard Brexit it's worthwhile having another go rather than just arguing about what a hard Brexit means, namely a lot of disadvantages for both sides," Maas told reporters before a meeting of EU foreign ministers. Asked about whether Brexit could be extended beyond the European elections in May, he replied: "The longer the time is pushed back, the more difficult it becomes."

Government cannot resubmit same Brexit deal in UK Parliament: Speaker

'Swim or sink!': Leave voters fed up with parliament's Brexit paralysis

British police briefly shut London's Westminster bridge and roads close to parliament and the capital's police headquarters on Saturday due to a suspicious vehicle.

A spokesman for the Metropolitan Police said officers had sealed off roads at Victoria Embankment next to the River Thames and close to New Scotland Yard, the head office of the Metropolitan Police, and by Parliament Square.

Images on social media showed a heavy police presence at the central London location that is popular with tourists. The roads were later re-opened.

"The incident in Victoria Embankment has now concluded," police said on Twitter. "The vehicle has been deemed non-suspicious. All roads will now be reopened."

The United Kingdom is on its second-highest level of terrorism alert after five attacks in 2017 killed a total of 36 people, including one incident on Westminster Bridge.

British police briefly shut London's Westminster bridge and roads close to parliament and the capital's police headquarters on Saturday due to a suspicious vehicle.

British police briefly shut London's Westminster bridge and roads close to parliament and the capital's police headquarters on Saturday due to a suspicious vehicle. A spokesman for the Metropolitan Police said officers had sealed off roads at Victoria Embankment next to the River Thames and close to New Scotland Yard, the head office of the Metropolitan Police, and by Parliament Square. Images on social media showed a heavy police presence at the central London location that is popular with tourists. The roads were later re-opened. "The incident in Victoria Embankment has now concluded," police said on Twitter. "The vehicle has been deemed non-suspicious. All roads will now be reopened." The United Kingdom is on its second-highest level of terrorism alert after five attacks in 2017 killed a total of 36 people, including one incident on Westminster Bridge.

British police briefly close roads near parliament over security alert

With just 50 days to go until Britain is due to leave the European Union, the chances of British Prime Minister resurrecting a deal with the bloc hangs by a thread.

The United Kingdom is on course to leave the EU on March 29 without a deal unless <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/government-wants-to-urgently-work-with-eu-may-on-brexit-plan-195694">Prime Minister Theresa May</a> can convince the bloc to reopen the divorce agreement she reached in November and then sell it to sceptical British lawmakers.

Frustration runs deep among European leaders over the British parliament's rejection of the divorce deal and May's demands that the EU now give up on key principles or face disruption in just 50 days.

As companies and governments across Europe step up preparations for a disorderly no-deal exit, diplomats and officials said Britain now faces three main options: a no-deal exit, a last-minute deal or a delay to Brexit.

For May, failure to deliver a revised deal would shatter the fragile unity in her Conservative Party, leaving her already-diminished authority in tatters, and ramping up uncertainty in financial markets over the fate of the British economy, the world's fifth largest.

The United Kingdom's decision to leave the EU has strained ties between its constituent parts: England and Wales voted to leave the EU in the 2016 referendum while Scotland and Northern Ireland voted to stay.

May has said she will seek an alternative arrangement which avoids the need for a hard border on the island of Ireland, or legally binding changes to the backstop to introduce a time limit or create an exit mechanism.

Brexit has snagged on the 310-mile (500-km) frontier because there is disagreement on how to monitor trade without physical checks on the border, which was marked by military checkpoints before the Good Friday peace agreement.

Under the divorce deal agreed in November, the 'backstop' would come into effect if the two sides failed to come up with a better idea to keep the border open.

EU officials are asking May to embrace a proposal by the opposition Labour Party to join a permanent customs union with the bloc.

Such a move could remove the need for the backstop and, some in the EU believe, may win approval in Britain's parliament. But officials have low expectations ahead of the prime minister's visit to Brussels on Thursday.

With just 50 days to go until Britain is due to leave the European Union, the chances of British Prime Minister resurrecting a deal with the bloc hangs by a thread.

With just 50 days to go until Britain is due to leave the European Union, the chances of British Prime Minister resurrecting a deal with the bloc hangs by a thread. The United Kingdom is on course to leave the EU on March 29 without a deal unless Prime Minister Theresa May can convince the bloc to reopen the divorce agreement she reached in November and then sell it to sceptical British lawmakers. Frustration runs deep among European leaders over the British parliament's rejection of the divorce deal and May's demands that the EU now give up on key principles or face disruption in just 50 days. As companies and governments across Europe step up preparations for a disorderly no-deal exit, diplomats and officials said Britain now faces three main options: a no-deal exit, a last-minute deal or a delay to Brexit. For May, failure to deliver a revised deal would shatter the fragile unity in her Conservative Party, leaving her already-diminished authority in tatters, and ramping up uncertainty in financial markets over the fate of the British economy, the world's fifth largest. The United Kingdom's decision to leave the EU has strained ties between its constituent parts: England and Wales voted to leave the EU in the 2016 referendum while Scotland and Northern Ireland voted to stay. May has said she will seek an alternative arrangement which avoids the need for a hard border on the island of Ireland, or legally binding changes to the backstop to introduce a time limit or create an exit mechanism. Brexit has snagged on the 310-mile (500-km) frontier because there is disagreement on how to monitor trade without physical checks on the border, which was marked by military checkpoints before the Good Friday peace agreement. Under the divorce deal agreed in November, the 'backstop' would come into effect if the two sides failed to come up with a better idea to keep the border open. EU officials are asking May to embrace a proposal by the opposition Labour Party to join a permanent customs union with the bloc. Such a move could remove the need for the backstop and, some in the EU believe, may win approval in Britain's parliament. But officials have low expectations ahead of the prime minister's visit to Brussels on Thursday.

Timeline 50 days ahead of Brexit

PM Theresa May told the British Parliament today that she did <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/eu-has-a-brexit-message-for-pm-may-irish-backstop-is-our-red-line-193501">not want to leave the European Union(EU)</a> without an agreement as it would "disrupt lives and hurt the economy" while asserting that holding a general election would be a "waste of time".

"I accept that this house does not want the deal that I put before it in the form that it currently exist, the vote was decisive and I listened. So the world know what this house does not want. Today we need to send an emphatic message about what we do want," May told parliamentarians during her speech.

Britain is scheduled to leave the European Union on March 29, however, May's plan was rejected by parliamentarians on January 15 leading to a stalemate.

"I do&nbsp;not want to leave the EU without a deal because that would hurt our economy and disrupt people's lives. It does not want to hold a general election because it would waste time, increase division and solve none of the problems we face," she said, adding,"this house renewed its confidence in her Majesty's government a fortnight ago. Neither do I see anything approaching a majority across the house to hold a second referendum."

MPs are set to vote on measures that could include preventing a no-deal Brexit, delaying Brexit, changing the negotiated deal and even seizing control of the entire process. The proposed measure put forward for Tuesday's votes calls for the backstop to be replaced with "alternative arrangements to avoid a hard border" on the island of Ireland.

"I think there is a willingness on the other side in terms of the European Union to agree a deal with the United Kingdom. But what they clearly said when the meaningful vote was lost, they wanted to know what it was the UK wanted to see happening in relation to the deal. That's an opportunity that we have today," May told parliamentarians.

"This amendment will give the mandate I need to negotiate with Brussels an arrangement that commands a majority in this house," May said. "What I'm talking about is not a further exchange of letters, but a significant and legally-binding change to the Withdrawal Agreement."

Before the Parliament opened, British stocks jumped Tuesday and the pound was firmer ahead of the votes.

London's benchmark FTSE 100 index was 1.3 per cent higher in midday deals, while the pound held recently won ground versus the dollar.

"Today we have the chance to show the European Union what it will take to get a deal through this House of Commons. What it will take to move beyond the confusion and division and uncertainty that now hangs over us and onto the bright new close open relationship that we want to build with our European friends in the years ahead," May said.

PM Theresa May told the British Parliament today that she did not want to leave the European Union(EU) without an agreement as it would "disrupt lives and hurt the economy" while asserting that holding a general election would be a "waste of time".

PM Theresa May told the British Parliament today that she did not want to leave the European Union(EU) without an agreement as it would "disrupt lives and hurt the economy" while asserting that holding a general election would be a "waste of time". "I accept that this house does not want the deal that I put before it in the form that it currently exist, the vote was decisive and I listened. So the world know what this house does not want. Today we need to send an emphatic message about what we do want," May told parliamentarians during her speech. Britain is scheduled to leave the European Union on March 29, however, May's plan was rejected by parliamentarians on January 15 leading to a stalemate. "I do not want to leave the EU without a deal because that would hurt our economy and disrupt people's lives. It does not want to hold a general election because it would waste time, increase division and solve none of the problems we face," she said, adding,"this house renewed its confidence in her Majesty's government a fortnight ago. Neither do I see anything approaching a majority across the house to hold a second referendum." MPs are set to vote on measures that could include preventing a no-deal Brexit, delaying Brexit, changing the negotiated deal and even seizing control of the entire process. The proposed measure put forward for Tuesday's votes calls for the backstop to be replaced with "alternative arrangements to avoid a hard border" on the island of Ireland. "I think there is a willingness on the other side in terms of the European Union to agree a deal with the United Kingdom. But what they clearly said when the meaningful vote was lost, they wanted to know what it was the UK wanted to see happening in relation to the deal. That's an opportunity that we have today," May told parliamentarians. "This amendment will give the mandate I need to negotiate with Brussels an arrangement that commands a majority in this house," May said. "What I'm talking about is not a further exchange of letters, but a significant and legally-binding change to the Withdrawal Agreement." Before the Parliament opened, British stocks jumped Tuesday and the pound was firmer ahead of the votes. London's benchmark FTSE 100 index was 1.3 per cent higher in midday deals, while the pound held recently won ground versus the dollar. "Today we have the chance to show the European Union what it will take to get a deal through this House of Commons. What it will take to move beyond the confusion and division and uncertainty that now hangs over us and onto the bright new close open relationship that we want to build with our European friends in the years ahead," May said.

Brexit: I don't want to leave EU without a deal, PM Theresa May to lawmakers

EU negotiator Michel Barnier warned on Wednesday that the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/after-brexit-defeat-in-parliament-pm-theresa-mays-government-to-face-no-confidence-vote-today-190589">British Parliament's overwhelming rejection </a>of a negotiated Brexit deal increases the risk that Britain will crash out of the European Union without an agreement.

"We are 10 weeks from the 31st of March and at 10 weeks the risk of a no deal has never seemed so high," Barnier told a session of the European Parliament in the eastern French city of Strasbourg.

Amid the political crisis, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/how-europe-reacted-to-brexit-deal-defeat-190587">France's Europe Minister Nathalie Loiseau</a> said the European Union could push back the looming March 29 Brexit deadline if London made such a request.

"Legally, technically, it's possible," Loiseau told France Inter radio.

"The British need to ask for it and there needs to be a unanimous agreement among the 27 other members of the European Union to say: 'Alright, you chose March 29 as the leaving date... Ok, we'll push it back."

Meanwhile, London's FTSE 100 index rose slightly at the open on Wednesday after the UK parliament handed the British government a bruising defeat over its Brexit deal with the EU.

The benchmark index of 100 companies gained 0.2 per cent to 6,910.20 points.&nbsp;

In the eurozone, Frankfurt's DAX 30 rose 0.5 per cent to 10,940.36 points and the Paris CAC 40 climbed 0.5 per cent to 4,811.59.

Prime Minister Theresa May will face a confidence vote today after MPs overwhelmingly rejected her deal to leave the European Union, leaving Britain with no plan as it hurtles towards Brexit on March 29.

May suffered the largest government defeat in modern British history on Tuesday night when the House of Commons rejected by 432 votes to 202 the withdrawal agreement she struck with Brussels late last year.

EU negotiator Michel Barnier warned on Wednesday that the British Parliament's overwhelming rejection of a negotiated Brexit deal increases the risk that Britain will crash out of the European Union without an agreement.

EU negotiator Michel Barnier warned on Wednesday that the British Parliament's overwhelming rejection of a negotiated Brexit deal increases the risk that Britain will crash out of the European Union without an agreement. "We are 10 weeks from the 31st of March and at 10 weeks the risk of a no deal has never seemed so high," Barnier told a session of the European Parliament in the eastern French city of Strasbourg. Amid the political crisis, France's Europe Minister Nathalie Loiseau said the European Union could push back the looming March 29 Brexit deadline if London made such a request. "Legally, technically, it's possible," Loiseau told France Inter radio. "The British need to ask for it and there needs to be a unanimous agreement among the 27 other members of the European Union to say: 'Alright, you chose March 29 as the leaving date... Ok, we'll push it back." Meanwhile, London's FTSE 100 index rose slightly at the open on Wednesday after the UK parliament handed the British government a bruising defeat over its Brexit deal with the EU. The benchmark index of 100 companies gained 0.2 per cent to 6,910.20 points. In the eurozone, Frankfurt's DAX 30 rose 0.5 per cent to 10,940.36 points and the Paris CAC 40 climbed 0.5 per cent to 4,811.59. Prime Minister Theresa May will face a confidence vote today after MPs overwhelmingly rejected her deal to leave the European Union, leaving Britain with no plan as it hurtles towards Brexit on March 29. May suffered the largest government defeat in modern British history on Tuesday night when the House of Commons rejected by 432 votes to 202 the withdrawal agreement she struck with Brussels late last year.

Risk of 'no deal' has never seemed so high, says EU negotiator after PM May loses Brexit vote in Parliament

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

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

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

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

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uk-economy-risks-severe-damage-without-orderly-brexit-cbi-181812">British Prime Minister Theresa May </a>on Thursday urged lawmakers to back her agreement to leave the European Union but made little headway with a bid to coax rebellious members of her party into supporting her deal.

May has repeatedly warned that if lawmakers reject her deal with Brussels, which would see Britain exit the EU on March 29 with continued close ties, the only alternatives are leaving without a deal or reversing Brexit.

The British parliament is mid-way through a five-day debate on the Brexit deal, ahead of a crunch vote on Dec. 11 which will define Britain's departure from the EU and could determine May's own future as a leader. She currently looks set to lose that vote.

The day before the vote, on Dec. 10, the European Court of Justice of Justice will deliver a judgment on whether Britain can unilaterally reverse its move to leave.

"There are three options: one is to leave the European Union with a deal ... the other two are that we leave without a deal or that we have no Brexit at all," May told BBC radio.

May said she was speaking to lawmakers about giving parliament a bigger role in whether to trigger a so-called Northern Irish backstop arrangement or extend a transition period during which more EU membership terms would apply.

CHARM OFFENSIVE?

Concerns about the backstop are a key driver of opposition to the deal among both May's own Conservative lawmakers and the Northern Irish Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), which props up her minority government.

Supporters of a clean break with the EU say the backstop, intended to ensure no hard border between British-ruled Northern Ireland and the EU-member Irish Republic, could leave Britain forced to accept EU regulations indefinitely, or Northern Ireland treated differently from the rest of Britain.

"There are questions about how decisions are taken as to whether we go into the backstop because that isn’t automatic," she said. "The question is: do we go into the backstop? Do we extend ... the implementation period?"

On Wednesday, May's top parliamentary enforcer, or chief whip, Julian Smith, spent an hour meeting with pro-Brexit Conservative and DUP lawmakers, listening to their concerns about the deal. But lawmakers who attended the meeting said he did not offer a solution to persuade them to back it.

"This was not about doing deals, it was about listening," said one leading pro-Brexit lawmaker. Another said it was: "Too little, too late."

May's minority government governs with a working majority of 13 thanks to its deal with the 10 DUP lawmakers.

The DUP says it will vote against the deal but would support May in a vote of confidence if the deal fails.

During the first two days of debate, 15 of May's own lawmakers have explicitly said they intend to vote against it. She will either need to win them back or win over a substantial number of opposition lawmakers, which appears unlikely.

British Prime Minister Theresa May on Thursday urged lawmakers to back her agreement to leave the European Union but made little headway with a bid to coax rebellious members of her party into supporting her deal.

British Prime Minister Theresa May on Thursday urged lawmakers to back her agreement to leave the European Union but made little headway with a bid to coax rebellious members of her party into supporting her deal. May has repeatedly warned that if lawmakers reject her deal with Brussels, which would see Britain exit the EU on March 29 with continued close ties, the only alternatives are leaving without a deal or reversing Brexit. The British parliament is mid-way through a five-day debate on the Brexit deal, ahead of a crunch vote on Dec. 11 which will define Britain's departure from the EU and could determine May's own future as a leader. She currently looks set to lose that vote. The day before the vote, on Dec. 10, the European Court of Justice of Justice will deliver a judgment on whether Britain can unilaterally reverse its move to leave. "There are three options: one is to leave the European Union with a deal ... the other two are that we leave without a deal or that we have no Brexit at all," May told BBC radio. May said she was speaking to lawmakers about giving parliament a bigger role in whether to trigger a so-called Northern Irish backstop arrangement or extend a transition period during which more EU membership terms would apply. CHARM OFFENSIVE? Concerns about the backstop are a key driver of opposition to the deal among both May's own Conservative lawmakers and the Northern Irish Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), which props up her minority government. Supporters of a clean break with the EU say the backstop, intended to ensure no hard border between British-ruled Northern Ireland and the EU-member Irish Republic, could leave Britain forced to accept EU regulations indefinitely, or Northern Ireland treated differently from the rest of Britain. "There are questions about how decisions are taken as to whether we go into the backstop because that isn’t automatic," she said. "The question is: do we go into the backstop? Do we extend ... the implementation period?" On Wednesday, May's top parliamentary enforcer, or chief whip, Julian Smith, spent an hour meeting with pro-Brexit Conservative and DUP lawmakers, listening to their concerns about the deal. But lawmakers who attended the meeting said he did not offer a solution to persuade them to back it. "This was not about doing deals, it was about listening," said one leading pro-Brexit lawmaker. Another said it was: "Too little, too late." May's minority government governs with a working majority of 13 thanks to its deal with the 10 DUP lawmakers. The DUP says it will vote against the deal but would support May in a vote of confidence if the deal fails. During the first two days of debate, 15 of May's own lawmakers have explicitly said they intend to vote against it. She will either need to win them back or win over a substantial number of opposition lawmakers, which appears unlikely.

UK PM May urges lawmakers to back her Brexit deal but rebels remain unconvinced

Britain should be allowed to unilaterally revoke its departure notice from the European Union, an adviser to the bloc's highest court said on Tuesday, before a landmark ruling in the coming weeks.

The non-binding opinion for the European Court of Justice (ECJ) comes as the British parliament begins five days of debate on <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uk-business-will-be-able-to-bring-in-high-skilled-workers-post-brexit-pm-may-180653">Prime Minister Theresa May</a>'s proposed Brexit deal with the EU before voting on it next Tuesday.

"Advocate General (Manuel) Campos Sanchez-Bordona proposes that the Court of Justice should declare that Article 50 ... allows the unilateral revocation of the notification of the intention to withdraw from the EU," the ECJ said.

"That possibility continues to exist until such time as the withdrawal agreement is formally concluded," it said in a statement, meaning Britain would have to notify the EU that it has changed its mind before Brexit day, on March 29, 2019.

"The Advocate General emphasises that withdrawal from an international treaty, which is the reverse of treaty-making power, is by definition a unilateral act of a state party and a manifestation of its sovereignty," the court also said.

"A member state which decides to withdraw is to notify the European Council of 'its intention' - and not of its decision - to withdraw, and such an intention may change," it added. "It would be illogical to force that member state to withdraw from the EU in order to then have to negotiate its accession."

The court, which tends to follow the advocate general's opinion in its final decisions, did not give an exact date for the ruling but it is expected in the coming weeks.

OPPOSITION IN PARLIAMENT

May has agreed to an exit pact and an outline of future EU-UK ties with the other 27 states staying on together after Brexit. But the proposed accord still needs the endorsement of the British parliament, where it faces stiff opposition.

The other EU states, as well as the bloc's executive, want any revocation of Britain's withdrawal notice to require the consent of the bloc, fearing that, otherwise, Britain or other would be leavers could use this tactic to win concessions.

Tuesday's opinion rejects that argument but says that "good faith and sincere cooperation must also be observed" in any withdrawal of the exit notice.

The case was brought before the ECJ by Scottish politicians opposed to Brexit. They hope it could pave the way for a potential second Brexit referendum, giving voters the option to remain in the EU.

"That puts the decision about our future back into the hands of our own elected representatives," said Jo Maugham, one of the lawyers involved in the case.

Both May and the EU have said that, if the British parliament votes this offer down, Britain would risk crashing out of the bloc with no deal in place to mitigate the damage. May says it would risk not delivering the Brexit that the British people voted for.

But the tentative deal is also opposed by advocates of a sharp break from the EU and she is struggling to get enough backing for it, even within her own party.

"Every effort is being made on both sides of the Channel to stop Brexit," prominent 'Leave' campaigner Nigel Farage said after the ECJ statement.

Britain should be allowed to unilaterally revoke its departure notice from the European Union, an adviser to the bloc's highest court said on Tuesday, before a landmark ruling in the coming weeks.

Britain should be allowed to unilaterally revoke its departure notice from the European Union, an adviser to the bloc's highest court said on Tuesday, before a landmark ruling in the coming weeks. The non-binding opinion for the European Court of Justice (ECJ) comes as the British parliament begins five days of debate on Prime Minister Theresa May's proposed Brexit deal with the EU before voting on it next Tuesday. "Advocate General (Manuel) Campos Sanchez-Bordona proposes that the Court of Justice should declare that Article 50 ... allows the unilateral revocation of the notification of the intention to withdraw from the EU," the ECJ said. "That possibility continues to exist until such time as the withdrawal agreement is formally concluded," it said in a statement, meaning Britain would have to notify the EU that it has changed its mind before Brexit day, on March 29, 2019. "The Advocate General emphasises that withdrawal from an international treaty, which is the reverse of treaty-making power, is by definition a unilateral act of a state party and a manifestation of its sovereignty," the court also said. "A member state which decides to withdraw is to notify the European Council of 'its intention' - and not of its decision - to withdraw, and such an intention may change," it added. "It would be illogical to force that member state to withdraw from the EU in order to then have to negotiate its accession." The court, which tends to follow the advocate general's opinion in its final decisions, did not give an exact date for the ruling but it is expected in the coming weeks. OPPOSITION IN PARLIAMENT May has agreed to an exit pact and an outline of future EU-UK ties with the other 27 states staying on together after Brexit. But the proposed accord still needs the endorsement of the British parliament, where it faces stiff opposition. The other EU states, as well as the bloc's executive, want any revocation of Britain's withdrawal notice to require the consent of the bloc, fearing that, otherwise, Britain or other would be leavers could use this tactic to win concessions. Tuesday's opinion rejects that argument but says that "good faith and sincere cooperation must also be observed" in any withdrawal of the exit notice. The case was brought before the ECJ by Scottish politicians opposed to Brexit. They hope it could pave the way for a potential second Brexit referendum, giving voters the option to remain in the EU. "That puts the decision about our future back into the hands of our own elected representatives," said Jo Maugham, one of the lawyers involved in the case. Both May and the EU have said that, if the British parliament votes this offer down, Britain would risk crashing out of the bloc with no deal in place to mitigate the damage. May says it would risk not delivering the Brexit that the British people voted for. But the tentative deal is also opposed by advocates of a sharp break from the EU and she is struggling to get enough backing for it, even within her own party. "Every effort is being made on both sides of the Channel to stop Brexit," prominent 'Leave' campaigner Nigel Farage said after the ECJ statement.

Britain can revoke Brexit unilaterally: EU court adviser

Police on Wednesday carried out a controlled explosion on a suspicious package found in central London near the British parliament.

Officers were called to the gardens next to the River Thames during the afternoon and emergency services were at the scene, a police spokesman said.

An AFP photographer on the spot saw a bomb disposal robot being deployed in the area and a controlled explosion was heard.

A building where many MPs have their offices was also cordoned off along with Victoria Embankment which leads to parliament.

The area was targeted in a terror attack last year when Khalid Masood, mowed down and killed five pedestrians before fatally stabbing a police officer outside the parliament building.

A man who crashed his car into the security barriers outside parliament in August is also suspected of attempting an attack.

Police on Wednesday carried out a controlled explosion on a suspicious package found in central London near the British parliament. Officers were called to the gardens next to the River Thames during the afternoon and emergency services were at the scene, a police spokesman said.

Police on Wednesday carried out a controlled explosion on a suspicious package found in central London near the British parliament. Officers were called to the gardens next to the River Thames during the afternoon and emergency services were at the scene, a police spokesman said. An AFP photographer on the spot saw a bomb disposal robot being deployed in the area and a controlled explosion was heard. A building where many MPs have their offices was also cordoned off along with Victoria Embankment which leads to parliament. The area was targeted in a terror attack last year when Khalid Masood, mowed down and killed five pedestrians before fatally stabbing a police officer outside the parliament building. A man who crashed his car into the security barriers outside parliament in August is also suspected of attempting an attack.

Suspicious package found near British parliament: Police

Robot makes speech in British Parliament

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?

Ben Stokes hammered an unbeaten 103 under pressure to lead Rising Pune Supergiant to a five-wicket win over Gujarat Lions that consolidated their fourth position in the&nbsp;IPL, here tonight. 
 
Chasing a modest 162 to win, the hosts were reeling at 42 for four when the England batsman came out firing on all cylinders to ensure that the good job done by the bowlers does not go waste. 
 
Stokes braved cramps towards the end of the chase and batted with determination to help RPS take two points and enhance their Play-offs chances. 
 
Leg-spinner Imran Tahir had rocked the Lions&#39; batting order with a three-wicket burst to help his side bundle out the rivals for a modest 161 in 19.5 overs. 
 
The Lions were off to a flying start with Brendon McCullum (45) and Ishan Kishan (31) adding 55 quick runs for the first wicket but lost wickets in a heap to lose way. 
 
Tahir not only broke the opening stand but also got rid of Aaron Finch (13) and Dwyane Smith (0) in successive balls. The South African spinner conceded 27 runs in his four overs. 
 
Lions could not exploit a good batting wicket and if it was not for Dinesh Karthik&#39;s sensible 29-run knock, they would not have put on board a respectable total. 
 
Paceman Jaydev Unadkat (3/29) also took three wickets to wipe off the tail. 
 
Left-arm paceman Pradeep Sangwan provided the Lions a perfect start by scalping dismissing both Ajinkya Rahane (4) and Steve Smith (4) in the very first over. 
 
Soon it came 42 for four when Manoj Tiwary (0) was trapped by Basil Tahmpi and Rahul Tripathi (6) was run out. 
 
From here, Stokes joined forces with MS Dhoni and the duo added 76 runs for the fifth-wicket to frustrate the Lions. 
 
Stokes&#39; onslaught began when he smashed Ravindra Jadeja for two sixes to collect 15 runs from the 10th over and never looked back. Dhoni played the second-fiddle as the former India captain was happy rotating the strike and finding a boundary here and there. 
 
RPS needed 60 off the final five overs. Stokes creamed off 16 runs from Dwayne Smith&#39;s 16th over but Dhoni hit one straight to McCullum in the next over by Thampi. 
 
Stokes, though, stayed till the end to take the side to finish line. His 103 came off 63 balls with seven fours and six sixes. 
 
RPS now have 12 points from 10 matches to be in fourth spot while Lions are sixth with six points. 
 
Earlier, Kishan took some time to get his eye in but made up for the dot balls by hitting a few big shots quite&nbsp;comfortably.

On&nbsp;the other end, McCulllum was on fire from the beginning, treating both spinners and pacers with disdain.&nbsp;Kishan lofted Jaydev Unadkat and Washington Sundar for sixes in the square leg region. Ben Stokes was introduced early into the attack but McCullum had no problems in finding boundaries. 
 
Lions raced to fifty in the sixth over but leg-spinner Imran Tahir, who bowled the last over in PowerPlay, brought relief for the hosts by scalping Kishan. 
 
The South African also succeeded in creating pressure on Lions batsmen by bowling dot balls and soon rival captain Suresh Raina was run out. 
 
Finch decided to take on Tahir and hammered him for a six over mid-wicket but the bowler had the last laugh as he caught and bowled the Australian. Tahir clean bowled Dwayne Smith with a googly in the next ball to stun the rival camp. 
 
Lions had 94 runs on the board at half-way mark but had lost four key batsmen. McCullum was being troubled by Ben Stokes and was hit on the shoulder. The Kiwi was though dismissed by Shardul Thakur after miscuing one off paceman. 
After that, James Faulkner (6) and Jadeja (19) too departed soon to leave Lions struggling.&nbsp; 
 
(PTI)

By law, parliament is dissolved 25 working days before an election takes place

Ben Stokes hammered an unbeaten 103 under pressure to lead Rising Pune Supergiant to a five-wicket win over Gujarat Lions that consolidated their fourth position in the IPL, here tonight. Chasing a modest 162 to win, the hosts were reeling at 42 for four when the England batsman came out firing on all cylinders to ensure that the good job done by the bowlers does not go waste. Stokes braved cramps towards the end of the chase and batted with determination to help RPS take two points and enhance their Play-offs chances. Leg-spinner Imran Tahir had rocked the Lions' batting order with a three-wicket burst to help his side bundle out the rivals for a modest 161 in 19.5 overs. The Lions were off to a flying start with Brendon McCullum (45) and Ishan Kishan (31) adding 55 quick runs for the first wicket but lost wickets in a heap to lose way. Tahir not only broke the opening stand but also got rid of Aaron Finch (13) and Dwyane Smith (0) in successive balls. The South African spinner conceded 27 runs in his four overs. Lions could not exploit a good batting wicket and if it was not for Dinesh Karthik's sensible 29-run knock, they would not have put on board a respectable total. Paceman Jaydev Unadkat (3/29) also took three wickets to wipe off the tail. Left-arm paceman Pradeep Sangwan provided the Lions a perfect start by scalping dismissing both Ajinkya Rahane (4) and Steve Smith (4) in the very first over. Soon it came 42 for four when Manoj Tiwary (0) was trapped by Basil Tahmpi and Rahul Tripathi (6) was run out. From here, Stokes joined forces with MS Dhoni and the duo added 76 runs for the fifth-wicket to frustrate the Lions. Stokes' onslaught began when he smashed Ravindra Jadeja for two sixes to collect 15 runs from the 10th over and never looked back. Dhoni played the second-fiddle as the former India captain was happy rotating the strike and finding a boundary here and there. RPS needed 60 off the final five overs. Stokes creamed off 16 runs from Dwayne Smith's 16th over but Dhoni hit one straight to McCullum in the next over by Thampi. Stokes, though, stayed till the end to take the side to finish line. His 103 came off 63 balls with seven fours and six sixes. RPS now have 12 points from 10 matches to be in fourth spot while Lions are sixth with six points. Earlier, Kishan took some time to get his eye in but made up for the dot balls by hitting a few big shots quite comfortably. On the other end, McCulllum was on fire from the beginning, treating both spinners and pacers with disdain. Kishan lofted Jaydev Unadkat and Washington Sundar for sixes in the square leg region. Ben Stokes was introduced early into the attack but McCullum had no problems in finding boundaries. Lions raced to fifty in the sixth over but leg-spinner Imran Tahir, who bowled the last over in PowerPlay, brought relief for the hosts by scalping Kishan. The South African also succeeded in creating pressure on Lions batsmen by bowling dot balls and soon rival captain Suresh Raina was run out. Finch decided to take on Tahir and hammered him for a six over mid-wicket but the bowler had the last laugh as he caught and bowled the Australian. Tahir clean bowled Dwayne Smith with a googly in the next ball to stun the rival camp. Lions had 94 runs on the board at half-way mark but had lost four key batsmen. McCullum was being troubled by Ben Stokes and was hit on the shoulder. The Kiwi was though dismissed by Shardul Thakur after miscuing one off paceman. After that, James Faulkner (6) and Jadeja (19) too departed soon to leave Lions struggling. (PTI)

UK Parliament officially dissolved before elections

Prime Minister Theresa May won parliament&#39;s backing for an early election on Wednesday, a vote she said would strengthen her hand in divorce talks with the European Union and help heal divisions in Britain.

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BREAKING: UK lawmakers vote 522-13 to back prime minister&#39;s call for June 8 election.
&mdash; The Associated Press (@AP) <a href="https://twitter.com/AP/status/854693130985254917">April 19, 2017</a></blockquote>
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May surprised allies and opponents on Tuesday when she announced her plan to bring forward an election that was not due until 2020, saying she needed to avoid a clash of priorities in the sensitive final stages of the two-year Brexit talks.

After addressing a rowdy session of the House of Commons, May won the support of 522 lawmakers in the 650-seat parliament for an election on June 8, an easy victory for the prime minister who could see her majority increase by at least 100 seats in the poll.

&quot;I believe that at this moment of enormous national significance there should be unity here in Westminster, not division,&quot; May told parliament.

&quot;A general election will provide the country with five years of strong and stable leadership to see us through the negotiations and ensure we are able to go on to make a success as a result, and that is crucial.&quot;

The former interior minister, who became prime minister without an election when her predecessor David Cameron quit after last year&#39;s referendum vote for Brexit, enjoys a runaway lead over the main opposition Labour Party in opinion polls.

She has also played up the strength of the British economy, which has so far defied predictions of a slowdown - a key campaign theme that her Conservative Party will use to try to undermine Labour in the election.

A victory would give May a powerful mandate extending until 2022, long enough to cover the Brexit negotiations plus a possible transition period into new trading arrangements with the EU - a prospect that has strengthened the pound.

The Sun, Britain&#39;s top-selling newspaper, splashed the headline &quot;Blue Murder&quot; - a reference to the Conservatives&#39; colour branding and the prospect of Labour losing dozens of seats.

Reluctant

May formally notified the European Union on March 29 of Britain&#39;s intention to leave, and has said she is confident of reaching a deal on the terms of withdrawal in the two years available.

She said on Tuesday she had &quot;reluctantly&quot; come to the decision to call for an early election because of political division in Westminster, criticising opposition parties for trying to thwart her plans for leaving the EU.

&quot;What do we know that the leader of the Labour Party, the leader of the Liberal Democrats and the leader of the Scottish nationalists have in common?&quot; she asked parliament.

&quot;They want to unite together to divide our country and we will not let them do it.&quot;

But for Scotland&#39;s first minister, Nicola Sturgeon, the move was a &quot;huge political miscalculation&quot; that could help the Scottish National Party&#39;s efforts to hold an independence vote.

&quot;If the SNP wins this election in Scotland and the Tories (Conservatives) don&#39;t, then Theresa May&#39;s attempt to block our mandate to give the people of Scotland a choice over their own future when the time is right will crumble to dust,&quot; said Sturgeon, who heads Scotland&#39;s devolved government.

May, who has described herself as &quot;not a showy politician&quot;, also said she would not take part in television debates before the election, preferring to talk directly to voters.

&quot;I will be debating these issues publicly across the country,&quot; she told parliament. &quot;We will be taking a proud record of a Conservative government, but more than that we will taking our plans for the future of this country.&quot;

(Reuters)

The parliament voted by 522 to 13 on Wednesday in favour of Prime Minister Theresa May's plan to hold an early national election

Prime Minister Theresa May won parliament's backing for an early election on Wednesday, a vote she said would strengthen her hand in divorce talks with the European Union and help heal divisions in Britain. BREAKING: UK lawmakers vote 522-13 to back prime minister's call for June 8 election. — The Associated Press (@AP) April 19, 2017 × May surprised allies and opponents on Tuesday when she announced her plan to bring forward an election that was not due until 2020, saying she needed to avoid a clash of priorities in the sensitive final stages of the two-year Brexit talks. After addressing a rowdy session of the House of Commons, May won the support of 522 lawmakers in the 650-seat parliament for an election on June 8, an easy victory for the prime minister who could see her majority increase by at least 100 seats in the poll. "I believe that at this moment of enormous national significance there should be unity here in Westminster, not division," May told parliament. "A general election will provide the country with five years of strong and stable leadership to see us through the negotiations and ensure we are able to go on to make a success as a result, and that is crucial." The former interior minister, who became prime minister without an election when her predecessor David Cameron quit after last year's referendum vote for Brexit, enjoys a runaway lead over the main opposition Labour Party in opinion polls. She has also played up the strength of the British economy, which has so far defied predictions of a slowdown - a key campaign theme that her Conservative Party will use to try to undermine Labour in the election. A victory would give May a powerful mandate extending until 2022, long enough to cover the Brexit negotiations plus a possible transition period into new trading arrangements with the EU - a prospect that has strengthened the pound. The Sun, Britain's top-selling newspaper, splashed the headline "Blue Murder" - a reference to the Conservatives' colour branding and the prospect of Labour losing dozens of seats. Reluctant May formally notified the European Union on March 29 of Britain's intention to leave, and has said she is confident of reaching a deal on the terms of withdrawal in the two years available. She said on Tuesday she had "reluctantly" come to the decision to call for an early election because of political division in Westminster, criticising opposition parties for trying to thwart her plans for leaving the EU. "What do we know that the leader of the Labour Party, the leader of the Liberal Democrats and the leader of the Scottish nationalists have in common?" she asked parliament. "They want to unite together to divide our country and we will not let them do it." But for Scotland's first minister, Nicola Sturgeon, the move was a "huge political miscalculation" that could help the Scottish National Party's efforts to hold an independence vote. "If the SNP wins this election in Scotland and the Tories (Conservatives) don't, then Theresa May's attempt to block our mandate to give the people of Scotland a choice over their own future when the time is right will crumble to dust," said Sturgeon, who heads Scotland's devolved government. May, who has described herself as "not a showy politician", also said she would not take part in television debates before the election, preferring to talk directly to voters. "I will be debating these issues publicly across the country," she told parliament. "We will be taking a proud record of a Conservative government, but more than that we will taking our plans for the future of this country." (Reuters)

British parliament votes in favour of early election on June 8

Just days after voting to leave the European Union, more than 1.5 million Britons and UK residents had signed a petition calling for a second vote, forcing lawmakers to at least consider a debate on the issue. 
 
The petition on the British parliament website was posted before the June 23 referendum, saying the government should hold another plebiscite on EU membership if the support for Leave or Remain in a referendum is less than 60 per cent based on a turnout of under 75 per cent of electors. 
 
The result on Thursday saw 52 per cent of voters back a British exit on a turnout of 72 per cent of eligible voters. 
 
Since then, the petition -- which only British citizens or UK residents have the right to sign -- was proving so popular that by 1417 GMT today, 1,580,220 people had signed it with the number rising quickly. 
 
It appeared to be rising at a rate of around 1,000 signatures a minute at one point. 
 
Most of those who signed were based in areas where support for staying in the EU was strongest such as London, the website indicated. 
 
Parliament has to consider a debate on any petition which attracts more than 100,000 signatures. 
 
Prime Minister David Cameron, who said on Friday he would resign after leading the failed campaign to keep Britain in the EU, has previously said there would be no second referendum. 
 
(Reuters)

The British Parliament has to consider a debate on any petition which attracts more than 100,000 signatures

Just days after voting to leave the European Union, more than 1.5 million Britons and UK residents had signed a petition calling for a second vote, forcing lawmakers to at least consider a debate on the issue. The petition on the British parliament website was posted before the June 23 referendum, saying the government should hold another plebiscite on EU membership if the support for Leave or Remain in a referendum is less than 60 per cent based on a turnout of under 75 per cent of electors. The result on Thursday saw 52 per cent of voters back a British exit on a turnout of 72 per cent of eligible voters. Since then, the petition -- which only British citizens or UK residents have the right to sign -- was proving so popular that by 1417 GMT today, 1,580,220 people had signed it with the number rising quickly. It appeared to be rising at a rate of around 1,000 signatures a minute at one point. Most of those who signed were based in areas where support for staying in the EU was strongest such as London, the website indicated. Parliament has to consider a debate on any petition which attracts more than 100,000 signatures. Prime Minister David Cameron, who said on Friday he would resign after leading the failed campaign to keep Britain in the EU, has previously said there would be no second referendum. (Reuters)

More than 1.5 million and rising sign UK petition for new EU referendum

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