European leaders agreed with Britain on Thursday to delay <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-may-says-view-on-second-brexit-referendum-has-not-changed-209308">Brexit</a> by up to six months, saving the continent from what could have been a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-leaders-meet-to-decide-another-brexit-delay-209279">chaotic no-deal departure</a> at the end of the week.

The deal struck during late night talks in Brussels means that if London remains in the EU after May 22, British voters will have to take part in European elections.

Prime Minister Theresa May and the other 27 EU leaders "have agreed to a flexible extension until 31 October", European Council president Donald Tusk said in a tweet.&nbsp;

"This means additional six months for the UK to find the best possible solution."

France's President Emmanuel Macron was the strongest voice opposing a long extension, but most leaders backed it and the French had to settle for a promise that the delay will be reviewed at an EU summit on June 21.

Most of the leaders gathered for the emergency summit, including German Chancellor Angela Merkel, had backed a plan for Brexit to be postponed for up to a year.

But as the talks went into Thursday morning, Macron -- with backing from Belgium, Austria and some smaller EU states -- held out for a short delay of only a few weeks and demanded solid guarantees that London would not interfere in EU business during that time.

May has already said that if Britain is still an EU member when the European parliamentary election begins on May 23, UK voters will take part. But some EU leaders are unconvinced that she is sincere, despite one official telling reporters her presentation had been "solid".

Without a postponement, Britain would have ended its 46-year membership of the EU at midnight (2200 GMT) on Friday with no deal, risking economic chaos on both sides of the Channel.&nbsp;

May agreed to a divorce deal with the EU last November but MPs in London have rejected it three times, forcing her to turn to the main opposition Labour party in a bid to find a way through.

'As soon as possible'

But these talks are moving slowly, and the prime minister is under intense pressure from hardline Brexit supporters in her Conservative party not to compromise.

As she arrived, May said she wanted to leave the EU "as soon as possible".

"I've asked for an extension to June 30 but what is important is that any extension enables us to leave at the point at which we ratify the withdrawal agreement," she said.

She said she still hoped to leave the EU on May 22, the last day before Britain must hold European Parliament elections.

For as long as Britain is in the EU, it must take part in bloc elections for them to be valid.

EU leaders have already agreed one delay to Brexit, from March 29 to April 12, and Tusk has warned there is "little reason to believe" the British parliament can ratify May's deal by June 30.

A draft copy of the summit conclusions seen by AFP before the leaders sat down to finalise it said, "an extension should last only as long as necessary and, in any event, no longer than."

"If the withdrawal agreement is ratified by both parties before this date, the withdrawal will take place on the first day of the following month," the draft stated.

EU members want to ensure that a semi-detached Britain does not seek leverage in Brexit talks by intervening in choosing the next head of the European Commission or the next multi-year EU budget.

May's ministers have begun cross-party talks with Labour on a compromise to get the withdrawal agreement through the House of Commons.

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn wants Britain to commit to remaining within the EU customs union, an idea that many in Europe would be keen to accommodate.

"We would be generous in negotiating that, understanding that the UK couldn't be a silent partner in such an arrangement -- it would have to have a say in decisions being made," Irish premier Leo Varadkar said as he arrived at the summit.

European leaders agreed with Britain on Thursday to delay Brexit by up to six months, saving the continent from what could have been a chaotic no-deal departure at the end of the week.

European leaders agreed with Britain on Thursday to delay Brexit by up to six months, saving the continent from what could have been a chaotic no-deal departure at the end of the week. The deal struck during late night talks in Brussels means that if London remains in the EU after May 22, British voters will have to take part in European elections. Prime Minister Theresa May and the other 27 EU leaders "have agreed to a flexible extension until 31 October", European Council president Donald Tusk said in a tweet. "This means additional six months for the UK to find the best possible solution." France's President Emmanuel Macron was the strongest voice opposing a long extension, but most leaders backed it and the French had to settle for a promise that the delay will be reviewed at an EU summit on June 21. Most of the leaders gathered for the emergency summit, including German Chancellor Angela Merkel, had backed a plan for Brexit to be postponed for up to a year. But as the talks went into Thursday morning, Macron -- with backing from Belgium, Austria and some smaller EU states -- held out for a short delay of only a few weeks and demanded solid guarantees that London would not interfere in EU business during that time. May has already said that if Britain is still an EU member when the European parliamentary election begins on May 23, UK voters will take part. But some EU leaders are unconvinced that she is sincere, despite one official telling reporters her presentation had been "solid". Without a postponement, Britain would have ended its 46-year membership of the EU at midnight (2200 GMT) on Friday with no deal, risking economic chaos on both sides of the Channel. May agreed to a divorce deal with the EU last November but MPs in London have rejected it three times, forcing her to turn to the main opposition Labour party in a bid to find a way through. 'As soon as possible' But these talks are moving slowly, and the prime minister is under intense pressure from hardline Brexit supporters in her Conservative party not to compromise. As she arrived, May said she wanted to leave the EU "as soon as possible". "I've asked for an extension to June 30 but what is important is that any extension enables us to leave at the point at which we ratify the withdrawal agreement," she said. She said she still hoped to leave the EU on May 22, the last day before Britain must hold European Parliament elections. For as long as Britain is in the EU, it must take part in bloc elections for them to be valid. EU leaders have already agreed one delay to Brexit, from March 29 to April 12, and Tusk has warned there is "little reason to believe" the British parliament can ratify May's deal by June 30. A draft copy of the summit conclusions seen by AFP before the leaders sat down to finalise it said, "an extension should last only as long as necessary and, in any event, no longer than." "If the withdrawal agreement is ratified by both parties before this date, the withdrawal will take place on the first day of the following month," the draft stated. EU members want to ensure that a semi-detached Britain does not seek leverage in Brexit talks by intervening in choosing the next head of the European Commission or the next multi-year EU budget. May's ministers have begun cross-party talks with Labour on a compromise to get the withdrawal agreement through the House of Commons. Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn wants Britain to commit to remaining within the EU customs union, an idea that many in Europe would be keen to accommodate. "We would be generous in negotiating that, understanding that the UK couldn't be a silent partner in such an arrangement -- it would have to have a say in decisions being made," Irish premier Leo Varadkar said as he arrived at the summit.

European Union gives Britain six-month delay to Brexit date

The chairman of European Union leaders Donald Tusk is likely to offer Britain a flexible extension of the date of the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-deal-brexit-day-after-day-more-likely-european-unions-chief-negotiator-207400"> country's exit from the EU </a>of up to one year, with the possibility of leaving sooner, a senior EU official said.

The official said the option could be presented to British Prime Minister Theresa May at the EU summit on Brexit on April 10th in Brussels. If May accepted, Britain would have to hold elections to the European Parliament in May, the official said.

"The only reasonable way out would be a long but flexible extension. I would call it a 'flex tension'," the official said.

"We could give the UK a year-long extension, automatically terminated once the Withdrawal Agreement has been accepted and ratified by the House of Commons," the official said.

"And even if this were not possible, then the UK would still have enough time to rethink its Brexit strategy. A short extension if possible, and a long one if necessary. It seems to be a good scenario for both sides, as it gives the UK all the necessary flexibility while avoiding the need to meet every few weeks to further discuss Brexit extensions," he said.

The chairman of European Union leaders Donald Tusk is likely to offer Britain a flexible extension of the date of the country's exit from the EU of up to one year, with the possibility of leaving sooner, a senior EU official said.

The chairman of European Union leaders Donald Tusk is likely to offer Britain a flexible extension of the date of the country's exit from the EU of up to one year, with the possibility of leaving sooner, a senior EU official said. The official said the option could be presented to British Prime Minister Theresa May at the EU summit on Brexit on April 10th in Brussels. If May accepted, Britain would have to hold elections to the European Parliament in May, the official said. "The only reasonable way out would be a long but flexible extension. I would call it a 'flex tension'," the official said. "We could give the UK a year-long extension, automatically terminated once the Withdrawal Agreement has been accepted and ratified by the House of Commons," the official said. "And even if this were not possible, then the UK would still have enough time to rethink its Brexit strategy. A short extension if possible, and a long one if necessary. It seems to be a good scenario for both sides, as it gives the UK all the necessary flexibility while avoiding the need to meet every few weeks to further discuss Brexit extensions," he said.

European Union's Tusk considering 'flexible' Brexit extension up to one year: Senior official

Prime Minister Theresa May has asked the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-is-getting-so-stressful-uk-mps-are-being-offered-counselling-208022"> European Union to delay Britain's </a>departure from the bloc until June 30, with the extension ending earlier if parliament approves her Brexit deal.

"The United Kingdom proposes that (the extension) should end on June 30th, 2019. If the parties are able to ratify before this date, the government proposes that the period should be terminated earlier," May wrote in a letter to EU Council president Donald Tusk.

Earlier an EU official had said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brussels-increasingly-wary-of-long-brexit-delay-207574">Donald Tusk will suggest</a> to member states Friday that they offer Britain a flexible 12-month Brexit delay to allow it time to prepare an orderly withdrawal.

"This is Tusk's idea," a senior EU official told AFP, confirming news reports. "It will be presented to member states today."

As things stand, Britain is due to leave the European Union at midnight on April 12 next week. Under the suggested extension, Britain would be able to delay this.

If the House of Commons ratifies the withdrawal agreement that Prime Minister Theresa May has already signed with the EU members, London could leave before the year is up.

But if Britain is still a member when the bloc holds elections to the European Parliament on May 23, it will need to take part in the poll and send another batch of MEPs to Strasbourg.

Prime Minister Theresa May has asked the European Union to delay Britain's departure from the bloc until June 30, with the extension ending earlier if parliament approves her Brexit deal.

Prime Minister Theresa May has asked the European Union to delay Britain's departure from the bloc until June 30, with the extension ending earlier if parliament approves her Brexit deal. "The United Kingdom proposes that (the extension) should end on June 30th, 2019. If the parties are able to ratify before this date, the government proposes that the period should be terminated earlier," May wrote in a letter to EU Council president Donald Tusk. Earlier an EU official had said Donald Tusk will suggest to member states Friday that they offer Britain a flexible 12-month Brexit delay to allow it time to prepare an orderly withdrawal. "This is Tusk's idea," a senior EU official told AFP, confirming news reports. "It will be presented to member states today." As things stand, Britain is due to leave the European Union at midnight on April 12 next week. Under the suggested extension, Britain would be able to delay this. If the House of Commons ratifies the withdrawal agreement that Prime Minister Theresa May has already signed with the EU members, London could leave before the year is up. But if Britain is still a member when the bloc holds elections to the European Parliament on May 23, it will need to take part in the poll and send another batch of MEPs to Strasbourg.

UK proposes Brexit extension to end on June 30: PM Theresa May to EU

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

EU's Tusk urges EU Parliament to be open to long Brexit extension

European leaders and Prime Minister Theresa May agreed Thursday on a short delay to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stop-brexit-700000-sign-uk-petition-to-stay-in-european-union-204690">Britain's divorce from the European Union</a> in the hope of ensuring an orderly Brexit.&nbsp;"I think what this decision tonight does is show the clear choice that is available, open to MPs," May noted.&nbsp;

Britain had faced a sharp cliff-edge deadline of March 29 to leave, but May's EU colleagues said the split could wait until May 22 if British lawmakers approve a withdrawal accord next week.

But if the House of Commons rejects the deal -- as it has done twice before -- Brexit will take place on April 12, unless Britain has decided by then to take part in this year's European Parliamentary elections.&nbsp;

"April 12 is the key date in terms of the UK deciding whether to hold European parliament elections," EU Council president and summit host Donald Tusk said, announcing the arrangement.&nbsp;

Britain would need time to legislate to take part in the May 23 to 26 election, and May has insisted it will not try, preferring in her words "to honour" voters' decision to end London's 46-year-old membership.

"I believe strongly that it would be wrong to ask people in the UK to participate in these elections three years after voting to leave the European Union," May said, confirming the agreement.

'Responsibility lies with the British'&nbsp;

Tusk said that if the vote is not organised then a further "extension will automatically become impossible" and that even with an election, all 27 remaining EU member states would unanimously have to approve it.

"March 29 is over. As of tonight, April 12 is the new March 29," an EU official said.

"On April 12 we have to know where things stand ... if we don't have a response by then we will have a no deal Brexit," Luxembourg's Prime Minister Xavier Bettel warned.

And French President Emmanuel Macron, who had taken a harder public line than some of his colleagues declared: "The responsibility now lies with the British, and I think that's the big achievement of the day."

Despite an extraordinary joint warning from Britain's business and trade union leaders that the economic disruptions of a no deal Brexit would present a "national emergency", May had refused to rule out walking away.

Even as she was meeting the EU 27 in Brussels for the European Council summit, an online petition hosted by the UK parliament and calling for Brexit to be abandoned topped two million signatures.&nbsp;

It still remains far from clear that May will be able to get the withdrawal agreement she signed last November past the House of Commons, and she turned up the heat on her own MPs after the Brexit talks.

"What the decision today underlines is the importance of the House of Commons passing a Brexit deal next week," she insisted.

"Tomorrow morning I am returning to the UK and working hard on building support to get the deal through... I hope we can all agree we are now at the moment of decision."

May had requested a short delay until June 30 to allow time for the ratification of her deal if it approved, but European leaders decided they did not want Brexit concerns to linger into the election campaign.

Deep divisions&nbsp;

Despite winning the extension, there is a chance the decision might be taken out of May's hands.

She had intended to hold a third vote on her deal this week, but the Speaker of the House of Commons blocked it, citing 400-year-old precedent that says the same proposition cannot be put to MPs again and again.

May is hoping that the EU summit's approval of fresh guarantees about the agreement will overcome the speaker's objections, but even if the deal goes forward rebel MPs may seize control of the process.

May's deal remains hugely unpopular among MPs on all sides of the Brexit debate, with some arguing it keeps Britain too closely to the EU, and others saying it would not keep it close enough.

British voters are also sharply divided.

Many pro-Europeans support a lengthy delay to Brexit, believing it would increase pressure at home for a general election or for a second referendum that might reverse the decision.&nbsp;

But there is huge anger among those who want to leave the EU and do not understand why it is taking so long, while eight of May's senior ministers last week voted against any delay.

European leaders and Prime Minister Theresa May agreed Thursday on a short delay to Britain's divorce from the European Union in the hope of ensuring an orderly Brexit.

European leaders and Prime Minister Theresa May agreed Thursday on a short delay to Britain's divorce from the European Union in the hope of ensuring an orderly Brexit. "I think what this decision tonight does is show the clear choice that is available, open to MPs," May noted. Britain had faced a sharp cliff-edge deadline of March 29 to leave, but May's EU colleagues said the split could wait until May 22 if British lawmakers approve a withdrawal accord next week. But if the House of Commons rejects the deal -- as it has done twice before -- Brexit will take place on April 12, unless Britain has decided by then to take part in this year's European Parliamentary elections. "April 12 is the key date in terms of the UK deciding whether to hold European parliament elections," EU Council president and summit host Donald Tusk said, announcing the arrangement. Britain would need time to legislate to take part in the May 23 to 26 election, and May has insisted it will not try, preferring in her words "to honour" voters' decision to end London's 46-year-old membership. "I believe strongly that it would be wrong to ask people in the UK to participate in these elections three years after voting to leave the European Union," May said, confirming the agreement. 'Responsibility lies with the British' Tusk said that if the vote is not organised then a further "extension will automatically become impossible" and that even with an election, all 27 remaining EU member states would unanimously have to approve it. "March 29 is over. As of tonight, April 12 is the new March 29," an EU official said. "On April 12 we have to know where things stand ... if we don't have a response by then we will have a no deal Brexit," Luxembourg's Prime Minister Xavier Bettel warned. And French President Emmanuel Macron, who had taken a harder public line than some of his colleagues declared: "The responsibility now lies with the British, and I think that's the big achievement of the day." Despite an extraordinary joint warning from Britain's business and trade union leaders that the economic disruptions of a no deal Brexit would present a "national emergency", May had refused to rule out walking away. Even as she was meeting the EU 27 in Brussels for the European Council summit, an online petition hosted by the UK parliament and calling for Brexit to be abandoned topped two million signatures. It still remains far from clear that May will be able to get the withdrawal agreement she signed last November past the House of Commons, and she turned up the heat on her own MPs after the Brexit talks. "What the decision today underlines is the importance of the House of Commons passing a Brexit deal next week," she insisted. "Tomorrow morning I am returning to the UK and working hard on building support to get the deal through... I hope we can all agree we are now at the moment of decision." May had requested a short delay until June 30 to allow time for the ratification of her deal if it approved, but European leaders decided they did not want Brexit concerns to linger into the election campaign. Deep divisions Despite winning the extension, there is a chance the decision might be taken out of May's hands. She had intended to hold a third vote on her deal this week, but the Speaker of the House of Commons blocked it, citing 400-year-old precedent that says the same proposition cannot be put to MPs again and again. May is hoping that the EU summit's approval of fresh guarantees about the agreement will overcome the speaker's objections, but even if the deal goes forward rebel MPs may seize control of the process. May's deal remains hugely unpopular among MPs on all sides of the Brexit debate, with some arguing it keeps Britain too closely to the EU, and others saying it would not keep it close enough. British voters are also sharply divided. Many pro-Europeans support a lengthy delay to Brexit, believing it would increase pressure at home for a general election or for a second referendum that might reverse the decision. But there is huge anger among those who want to leave the EU and do not understand why it is taking so long, while eight of May's senior ministers last week voted against any delay.

UK PM Theresa May welcomes Brexit delay, says Parliament now has clear choice

Germany is prepared to agree to Britain's request for a postponement of Brexit if the parliament in London backs British Prime Minister Theresa May's exit deal, Chancellor Angela Merkel said on Thursday (March 21).

The European Union requires unanimous agreement from all member states to grant an extension to the so-called "Article 50" process that currently envisages a British exit from the European Union on March 29.

"I believe we can say, as Germany, we can meet that request," Merkel told German legislators ahead of Thursday's European Council meeting.

Merkel warned that an extension of the Brexit deadline to June 30, as requested by May, would be complicated because of the question of Britain's possible participation in the European Parliament elections.

Germany is prepared to agree to Britain's request for a postponement of Brexit if the parliament in London backs British Prime Minister Theresa May's exit deal, Chancellor Angela Merkel said on Thursday (March 21).

Germany is prepared to agree to Britain's request for a postponement of Brexit if the parliament in London backs British Prime Minister Theresa May's exit deal, Chancellor Angela Merkel said on Thursday (March 21). The European Union requires unanimous agreement from all member states to grant an extension to the so-called "Article 50" process that currently envisages a British exit from the European Union on March 29. "I believe we can say, as Germany, we can meet that request," Merkel told German legislators ahead of Thursday's European Council meeting. Merkel warned that an extension of the Brexit deadline to June 30, as requested by May, would be complicated because of the question of Britain's possible participation in the European Parliament elections.

Berlin can agree to Brexit delay if British Parliament backs May's deal: Merkel

European Council president Donald Tusk said Wednesday that<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/requested-brexit-delay-until-june-30-uk-pm-theresa-may-to-european-union-leaders-204557"> EU leaders could approve a short delay </a>to Brexit if British lawmakers finally approve the withdrawal deal they have twice rejected.

"In the light of the consultations I have conducted over the past days, I believe a short extension will be possible but it will be conditional on a positive vote on the withdrawal agreement in the House of Commons," Tusk told reporters.

Prime Minister Theresa May had asked the EU on Wednesday to delay <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/pound-slides-after-uk-requests-brexit-delay-204577">Brexit until June 30 </a>as she scrambled to contain a deepening political crisis, but faced warnings that Britain could still crash out of the bloc in nine days.

The pound plunged on currency markets as European Union leaders and British parliamentarians responded with scepticism to her request, made ahead of a Brussels leaders' summit on Thursday.

Exactly 1,000 days on from Britain's seismic 2016 referendum vote to leave the EU, a divorce deal negotiated by May is blocked in parliament and uncertainty grips the country.

She is seeking to put back the March 29 exit date to try one more time to get her agreement passed, but said any further postponement would undermine voters' trust.

In Paris, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian also had a tough message.

"A situation in which Mrs May is unable to deliver sufficient guarantees on the credibility of her strategy at the European Council meeting would lead to the request being refused and a preference for a no deal," he told parliament.

In her letter to Tusk -- addressed as "Dear Donald" -- May said she intended to bring her deal back to the Commons "as soon as possible", arguing that if it passed, she would need the delay until June 30 to implement the treaty.

If the text is rejected a third time, May said MPs would have to decide what happened next.

"As prime minister, I am not prepared to delay Brexit any further than June 30," she said, in comments interpreted as a hint about her own future.

She said delaying any longer would require Britain to hold elections for the European Parliament, which would be "unacceptable".

However, the European Commission, the EU's executive arm, said the June 30 date carried "serious legal and political risks".

In a phone call with May on Wednesday, Juncker urged her not to set a date that was beyond the European Parliament elections, due to be held between May 23rd and May 26th.

European Council president Donald Tusk said Wednesday that EU leaders could approve a short delay to Brexit if British lawmakers finally approve the withdrawal deal they have twice rejected.

European Council president Donald Tusk said Wednesday that EU leaders could approve a short delay to Brexit if British lawmakers finally approve the withdrawal deal they have twice rejected. "In the light of the consultations I have conducted over the past days, I believe a short extension will be possible but it will be conditional on a positive vote on the withdrawal agreement in the House of Commons," Tusk told reporters. Prime Minister Theresa May had asked the EU on Wednesday to delay Brexit until June 30 as she scrambled to contain a deepening political crisis, but faced warnings that Britain could still crash out of the bloc in nine days. The pound plunged on currency markets as European Union leaders and British parliamentarians responded with scepticism to her request, made ahead of a Brussels leaders' summit on Thursday. Exactly 1,000 days on from Britain's seismic 2016 referendum vote to leave the EU, a divorce deal negotiated by May is blocked in parliament and uncertainty grips the country. She is seeking to put back the March 29 exit date to try one more time to get her agreement passed, but said any further postponement would undermine voters' trust. In Paris, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian also had a tough message. "A situation in which Mrs May is unable to deliver sufficient guarantees on the credibility of her strategy at the European Council meeting would lead to the request being refused and a preference for a no deal," he told parliament. In her letter to Tusk -- addressed as "Dear Donald" -- May said she intended to bring her deal back to the Commons "as soon as possible", arguing that if it passed, she would need the delay until June 30 to implement the treaty. If the text is rejected a third time, May said MPs would have to decide what happened next. "As prime minister, I am not prepared to delay Brexit any further than June 30," she said, in comments interpreted as a hint about her own future. She said delaying any longer would require Britain to hold elections for the European Parliament, which would be "unacceptable". However, the European Commission, the EU's executive arm, said the June 30 date carried "serious legal and political risks". In a phone call with May on Wednesday, Juncker urged her not to set a date that was beyond the European Parliament elections, due to be held between May 23rd and May 26th.

Short extension possible on Brexit if British lawmakers approve withdrawal deal: European Council president Tusk

Prime Minister Theresa May asked sceptical EU leaders on Wednesday to delay Brexit until June 30 as Britain's political crisis deepened just nine days before the scheduled departure date.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/pound-slides-after-uk-requests-brexit-delay-204577">pound plunged on currency markets after the announcement</a>, as the European Commission advised EU leaders that a shorter delay to May 23 or a much longer one until at least the end of 2019 would be preferable.

Exactly 1,000 days on from Britain's seismic 2016 referendum vote to leave the European Union, a divorce deal negotiated with the EU by May is blocked in parliament and uncertainty grips the country.

May told a stormy session of parliament that she had written to EU President Donald Tusk "informing him that the UK seeks an extension... to June 30".

She was confronted with a barrage of criticism from Brexit hardliners who wanted her to stick to the March 29 departure date and pro-EU lawmakers who want a long delay that could allow for an overhaul of the strategy.

Faced with the potentially catastrophic impact of Britain leaving its biggest trading partner after 46 years with no agreement in place on March 29, May said she would try one last time to pass her deal through parliament.

If she fails a third time, May said parliament would have to decide what happened next -- but hinted that her own future was on the line.

"As prime minister, I am not prepared to delay Brexit any further than June 30," she said.

Delaying any longer would require Britain to hold European Parliament elections at the end of May, which she said would be "unacceptable".

May will travel to Brussels on Thursday for an EU summit where she will put her request in person to the other 27 EU leaders, who must unanimously approve any delay.

But European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker said it was unlikely they would reach a decision without a clear signal from London on what MPs want, suggesting another meeting might be needed next week.

The commission, the EU's executive arm, said the June 30 date carried "serious legal and political risks".

Spokeswoman Mina Andreeva said Juncker in a phone-call on Wednesday "warned" May against proposing an extension date that was after European elections.

'End of the road'

After almost two years of talks, May and the EU struck a divorce agreement late last year, but MPs have overwhelmingly rejected it twice.

Her original plan to hold a third vote this week was dramatically blocked by Commons speaker John Bercow, who said May could not keep bringing the deal back to MPs without changes.

European leaders are now demanding Britain tells them clearly what it wants.

"As long as we don't know what Britain could say yes to, no decision can be taken on our side either," Juncker told German broadcaster Deutschlandfunk.

He said the deal agreed was the final offer, warning: "Nothing more can be done, we've reached the end of the road.&nbsp;

"If other scenarios are being discussed, we'd need a new road."

Juncker said May needed to present Brussels with an agreement approved by parliament as well as "a clear timetable".

Given that this was unlikely before the summit's start on Thursday, "we will probably need to meet again next week".

The pound fell sharply on the news losing about half a pence in the space of 10 minutes after May announced the delay, bringing its loss for the day to around one per cent

'National humiliation'

Brexit-backing British newspapers echoed the general sense of frustration.

The Daily Mail's editorial read: "1,000 days of incompetence, betrayal and now national humiliation... how did victory turn to this?"

In the House of Commons, opposition Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn blamed the prime minister's "incompetence, failure and intransigence", saying she refused to accept her deal had failed.

May had previously warned MPs to expect a lengthy Brexit delay if her deal did not pass before this week's EU meeting.

But she opted for a short option after Brexit-backing ministers reportedly said they would not accept a long extension.

This is despite her own deputy, David Lidington, warning that a request for a short delay would likely be rejected by the EU, and could increase the chance of a "no deal".

"When will she develop a backbone and stand up to those who would take this nation to disaster?" Scottish National Party (SNP) MP Pete Wishart asked.

Prime Minister Theresa May asked sceptical EU leaders on Wednesday to delay Brexit until June 30 as Britain's political crisis deepened just nine days before the scheduled departure date.

Prime Minister Theresa May asked sceptical EU leaders on Wednesday to delay Brexit until June 30 as Britain's political crisis deepened just nine days before the scheduled departure date. The pound plunged on currency markets after the announcement, as the European Commission advised EU leaders that a shorter delay to May 23 or a much longer one until at least the end of 2019 would be preferable. Exactly 1,000 days on from Britain's seismic 2016 referendum vote to leave the European Union, a divorce deal negotiated with the EU by May is blocked in parliament and uncertainty grips the country. May told a stormy session of parliament that she had written to EU President Donald Tusk "informing him that the UK seeks an extension... to June 30". She was confronted with a barrage of criticism from Brexit hardliners who wanted her to stick to the March 29 departure date and pro-EU lawmakers who want a long delay that could allow for an overhaul of the strategy. Faced with the potentially catastrophic impact of Britain leaving its biggest trading partner after 46 years with no agreement in place on March 29, May said she would try one last time to pass her deal through parliament. If she fails a third time, May said parliament would have to decide what happened next -- but hinted that her own future was on the line. "As prime minister, I am not prepared to delay Brexit any further than June 30," she said. Delaying any longer would require Britain to hold European Parliament elections at the end of May, which she said would be "unacceptable". May will travel to Brussels on Thursday for an EU summit where she will put her request in person to the other 27 EU leaders, who must unanimously approve any delay. But European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker said it was unlikely they would reach a decision without a clear signal from London on what MPs want, suggesting another meeting might be needed next week. The commission, the EU's executive arm, said the June 30 date carried "serious legal and political risks". Spokeswoman Mina Andreeva said Juncker in a phone-call on Wednesday "warned" May against proposing an extension date that was after European elections. 'End of the road' After almost two years of talks, May and the EU struck a divorce agreement late last year, but MPs have overwhelmingly rejected it twice. Her original plan to hold a third vote this week was dramatically blocked by Commons speaker John Bercow, who said May could not keep bringing the deal back to MPs without changes. European leaders are now demanding Britain tells them clearly what it wants. "As long as we don't know what Britain could say yes to, no decision can be taken on our side either," Juncker told German broadcaster Deutschlandfunk. He said the deal agreed was the final offer, warning: "Nothing more can be done, we've reached the end of the road. "If other scenarios are being discussed, we'd need a new road." Juncker said May needed to present Brussels with an agreement approved by parliament as well as "a clear timetable". Given that this was unlikely before the summit's start on Thursday, "we will probably need to meet again next week". The pound fell sharply on the news losing about half a pence in the space of 10 minutes after May announced the delay, bringing its loss for the day to around one per cent 'National humiliation' Brexit-backing British newspapers echoed the general sense of frustration. The Daily Mail's editorial read: "1,000 days of incompetence, betrayal and now national humiliation... how did victory turn to this?" In the House of Commons, opposition Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn blamed the prime minister's "incompetence, failure and intransigence", saying she refused to accept her deal had failed. May had previously warned MPs to expect a lengthy Brexit delay if her deal did not pass before this week's EU meeting. But she opted for a short option after Brexit-backing ministers reportedly said they would not accept a long extension. This is despite her own deputy, David Lidington, warning that a request for a short delay would likely be rejected by the EU, and could increase the chance of a "no deal". "When will she develop a backbone and stand up to those who would take this nation to disaster?" Scottish National Party (SNP) MP Pete Wishart asked.

European Union leaders warn 'serious risks' as Theresa May seeks Brexit delay until June 30

The British pound fell Wednesday on simmering Brexit tensions after Prime Minister Theresa <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/requested-brexit-delay-until-june-30-uk-pm-theresa-may-to-european-union-leaders-204557">May asked EU leaders to delay the nation's departure</a> until June 30.

On eve of an EU summit in Brussels, May told parliament that she has written to EU President Donald Tusk to ask for the withdrawal date to be moved from March 29.

The European Commission warned in an internal briefing note that delaying Brexit to June 30 would bring "serious legal and political risks".

The EU's executive arm instead urged leaders to choose instead a short delay to May 23 or a longer one at least until the end of this year.

At around 1300 GMT, sterling was down almost one percent in value, sliding to $1.3149, while the euro rose to 86.40 pence. The unit was already in negative territory prior to May's announcement.

Analysts expressed doubt that the delay extension would allow May's Conservative government sufficient time to resolve the crisis.

"The pound's Wednesday only got worse after the confirmation that Theresa May is seeking a short delay from the EU, one that arguably does not give the government enough time to get through a sterling-positive Brexit deal," Spreadex analyst Connor Campbell told AFP.

"It appears that, despite the various votes highlighting MPs unwilling to leave the EU without a deal, that kind of disastrous exit is still very much on the table."

Rebecca O'Keeffe, analyst at online broker Interactive Investor, was similarly downbeat.

"A short delay is being perceived as the worst of all possible worlds for the UK and sterling," she told AFP.

"Rather than resolve the crisis, it suggests that Mrs May is likely to undergo three more months of brinkmanship.

"This will represent one more damaging quarter for UK businesses, especially those who had already implemented plans to cope with an end-March Brexit date.

"So it really is no surprise that the pound is going down, as investors face the prospect of another three months of purgatory."

The British pound fell Wednesday on simmering Brexit tensions after Prime Minister Theresa May asked EU leaders to delay the nation's departure until June 30. On eve of an EU summit in Brussels, May told parliament that she has written to EU President Donald Tusk to ask for the withdrawal date to be moved from March 29.

The British pound fell Wednesday on simmering Brexit tensions after Prime Minister Theresa May asked EU leaders to delay the nation's departure until June 30. On eve of an EU summit in Brussels, May told parliament that she has written to EU President Donald Tusk to ask for the withdrawal date to be moved from March 29. The European Commission warned in an internal briefing note that delaying Brexit to June 30 would bring "serious legal and political risks". The EU's executive arm instead urged leaders to choose instead a short delay to May 23 or a longer one at least until the end of this year. At around 1300 GMT, sterling was down almost one percent in value, sliding to $1.3149, while the euro rose to 86.40 pence. The unit was already in negative territory prior to May's announcement. Analysts expressed doubt that the delay extension would allow May's Conservative government sufficient time to resolve the crisis. "The pound's Wednesday only got worse after the confirmation that Theresa May is seeking a short delay from the EU, one that arguably does not give the government enough time to get through a sterling-positive Brexit deal," Spreadex analyst Connor Campbell told AFP. "It appears that, despite the various votes highlighting MPs unwilling to leave the EU without a deal, that kind of disastrous exit is still very much on the table." Rebecca O'Keeffe, analyst at online broker Interactive Investor, was similarly downbeat. "A short delay is being perceived as the worst of all possible worlds for the UK and sterling," she told AFP. "Rather than resolve the crisis, it suggests that Mrs May is likely to undergo three more months of brinkmanship. "This will represent one more damaging quarter for UK businesses, especially those who had already implemented plans to cope with an end-March Brexit date. "So it really is no surprise that the pound is going down, as investors face the prospect of another three months of purgatory."

Pound slides after UK requests Brexit delay

British Prime Minister Theresa May will write to EU President Donald Tusk with a plan for delaying Brexit beyond March 29, her spokesman said Tuesday, admitting the parliamentary deadlock had reached crisis levels.

The letter will be sent before May heads to a Brussels summit on Thursday, where she has already promised to seek what could be a lengthy postponement of Britain's exit from the European Union.

May had hoped to persuade MPs before then to back the divorce agreement she has struck with the EU, but her plan to hold a fresh vote was dramatically blocked by the speaker of the House of Commons.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-brexit-looms-uk-unemployment-rate-hits-44-year-low-official-data-204306">As Brexit looms, </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-brexit-looms-uk-unemployment-rate-hits-44-year-low-official-data-204306">UK</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-brexit-looms-uk-unemployment-rate-hits-44-year-low-official-data-204306"> unemployment rate hits </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-brexit-looms-uk-unemployment-rate-hits-44-year-low-official-data-204306">44-year</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-brexit-looms-uk-unemployment-rate-hits-44-year-low-official-data-204306"> low</a>

Exasperated European leaders are now demanding London tell them clearly what it wants, warning that the risk still remains that Britain could crash out of the bloc in 10 days, ending its 46-year membership of the bloc without formal arrangements.

"If there's no decision and March 29 comes then it's no deal. If Britain decides on nothing then it chooses no deal," French Europe minister Nathalie Loiseau told reporters in Brussels.

May's letter to Tusk would come either later Tuesday or on Wednesday, her spokesman said, amid reports she will seek a 12-month delay.

"The prime minister will be writing to Donald Tusk, president of the European Council, before European Council begins in relation to an extension of Article 50," the spokesman said.

May is struggling to keep control of the Brexit process after MPs last week decisively rejected her divorce deal for a second time.

She has reluctantly accepted that Brexit must be delayed, amid fears of an economic shock if Britain ends its 46-year membership of the EU with no new arrangements in place.

But she said that if MPs backed her deal this week, it might only be a short delay to ratify the text.

This plan was scuppered on Monday when Speaker John Bercow delivered a surprise ruling that she could not keep bringing her deal back to MPs without changes.

May had previously warned that without a deal, the EU might impose a lengthy delay.

Asked her view on the current deadlock, May's spokesman noted that she had previously warned MPs that rejecting her deal would spark a "crisis".

"I think events yesterday tell you that that situation has come to pass," he said.

Delay not automatic

Pro-Brexit newspapers condemned Bercow as the "Brexit Destroyer".

But May had been by no means certain of getting her deal through parliament this week, as many Brexit-supporting MPs believe it keeps Britain too closely aligned to the EU.

Talks continue aimed at persuading MPs in her Conservative party and their Northern Irish allies, the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), to back the text.

And there is speculation that any EU deal she strikes on delaying Brexit might be enough of a change to persuade Bercow to allow another vote on it next week.

In Berlin, German Chancellor Angela Merkel said: "I will fight to the last hour of the deadline on March 29 for an orderly exit.&nbsp;

"We don't have a lot of time for it, but still have a few days."

But her Europe minister, Michael Roth, warned at a meeting of counterparts in Brussels: "I expect clear and precise proposals by the British government why such an extension is necessary."

This message was repeated by France's Loiseau, while an aide to French President Emmanuel Macron warned: "An extension is not for certain or automatic."

'Only deal on the table'

The speaker's ruling added further drama and complexity to an already chaotic Brexit process that has exposed deep rifts in parliament.

MPs still cannot agree how to implement the 2016 referendum, reflecting how voters remain divided almost three years after they voted 52 to 48 percent for Brexit.

May continues to insist that her agreement, covering citizens' rights, Britain's financial settlement, plans for the Irish border and for a post-Brexit transition period, is a good compromise.

She sought and obtained clarifications on the operation of the so-called Irish border "backstop" to appease some of her MPs, but some still want more.

Several Conservative MPs suggested that following Bercow's ruling, May must now return to the negotiating table, even at this late stage.

However, Brexit Secretary Steve Barclay warned: "It is the only deal on the table from the EU -- the EU have been consistent on that.

"Either we back the prime minister's deal and get Brexit over the line or we risk either a softer Brexit or no Brexit at all."

British Prime Minister Theresa May will write to EU President Donald Tusk with a plan for delaying Brexit beyond March 29, her spokesman said Tuesday, admitting the parliamentary deadlock had reached crisis levels.

British Prime Minister Theresa May will write to EU President Donald Tusk with a plan for delaying Brexit beyond March 29, her spokesman said Tuesday, admitting the parliamentary deadlock had reached crisis levels. The letter will be sent before May heads to a Brussels summit on Thursday, where she has already promised to seek what could be a lengthy postponement of Britain's exit from the European Union. May had hoped to persuade MPs before then to back the divorce agreement she has struck with the EU, but her plan to hold a fresh vote was dramatically blocked by the speaker of the House of Commons. Also read: As Brexit looms, UK unemployment rate hits 44-year low Exasperated European leaders are now demanding London tell them clearly what it wants, warning that the risk still remains that Britain could crash out of the bloc in 10 days, ending its 46-year membership of the bloc without formal arrangements. "If there's no decision and March 29 comes then it's no deal. If Britain decides on nothing then it chooses no deal," French Europe minister Nathalie Loiseau told reporters in Brussels. May's letter to Tusk would come either later Tuesday or on Wednesday, her spokesman said, amid reports she will seek a 12-month delay. "The prime minister will be writing to Donald Tusk, president of the European Council, before European Council begins in relation to an extension of Article 50," the spokesman said. May is struggling to keep control of the Brexit process after MPs last week decisively rejected her divorce deal for a second time. She has reluctantly accepted that Brexit must be delayed, amid fears of an economic shock if Britain ends its 46-year membership of the EU with no new arrangements in place. But she said that if MPs backed her deal this week, it might only be a short delay to ratify the text. This plan was scuppered on Monday when Speaker John Bercow delivered a surprise ruling that she could not keep bringing her deal back to MPs without changes. May had previously warned that without a deal, the EU might impose a lengthy delay. Asked her view on the current deadlock, May's spokesman noted that she had previously warned MPs that rejecting her deal would spark a "crisis". "I think events yesterday tell you that that situation has come to pass," he said. Delay not automatic Pro-Brexit newspapers condemned Bercow as the "Brexit Destroyer". But May had been by no means certain of getting her deal through parliament this week, as many Brexit-supporting MPs believe it keeps Britain too closely aligned to the EU. Talks continue aimed at persuading MPs in her Conservative party and their Northern Irish allies, the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), to back the text. And there is speculation that any EU deal she strikes on delaying Brexit might be enough of a change to persuade Bercow to allow another vote on it next week. In Berlin, German Chancellor Angela Merkel said: "I will fight to the last hour of the deadline on March 29 for an orderly exit. "We don't have a lot of time for it, but still have a few days." But her Europe minister, Michael Roth, warned at a meeting of counterparts in Brussels: "I expect clear and precise proposals by the British government why such an extension is necessary." This message was repeated by France's Loiseau, while an aide to French President Emmanuel Macron warned: "An extension is not for certain or automatic." 'Only deal on the table' The speaker's ruling added further drama and complexity to an already chaotic Brexit process that has exposed deep rifts in parliament. MPs still cannot agree how to implement the 2016 referendum, reflecting how voters remain divided almost three years after they voted 52 to 48 percent for Brexit. May continues to insist that her agreement, covering citizens' rights, Britain's financial settlement, plans for the Irish border and for a post-Brexit transition period, is a good compromise. She sought and obtained clarifications on the operation of the so-called Irish border "backstop" to appease some of her MPs, but some still want more. Several Conservative MPs suggested that following Bercow's ruling, May must now return to the negotiating table, even at this late stage. However, Brexit Secretary Steve Barclay warned: "It is the only deal on the table from the EU -- the EU have been consistent on that. "Either we back the prime minister's deal and get Brexit over the line or we risk either a softer Brexit or no Brexit at all."

UK's Theresa May to urge European Union chief Donald Tusk to delay Brexit ahead of Brussels summit

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafale-review-petition-security-of-state-supersedes-everything-government-tells-supreme-court-203317">Rafale review petition: 'Security of state supersedes everything,' government tells Supreme Court</a>

Attorney General KK Venugopal told the Supreme Court Thursday that the "security of state supersedes everything". The court is hearing a review petition of its earlier judgement in the Rafale case which had said the deal did not need to be investigated for corruption.&nbsp;

The review petition has been filed by former union ministers Arun Shourie and Yashwant Sinha, and the lawyer Prashant Bhushan.&nbsp;

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-leader-donald-tusk-backs-long-delay-if-britain-rethinks-brexit-203291">EU's Donald Tusk backs 'long' delay if Britain 'rethinks' Brexit</a>

EU leader Donald Tusk said Thursday that European capitals could approve a long delay to Brexit, in a last-ditch push to persuade Prime Minister Theresa May to change her negotiating red lines. &nbsp;&nbsp;

During consultations ahead of next week's EU summit, Tusk said he "will appeal to the EU27 to be open to a long extension if the UK finds it necessary to rethink its Brexit strategy and build consensus around it."

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sp-bsp-will-have-joint-rallies-in-uttar-pradesh-says-akhilesh-203316">Lok Sabha polls: SP &amp; BSP will hold joint rallies in Uttar Pradesh, says Akhilesh</a>

In Uttar Pradesh, the SP and BSP will hold joint election rallies during the ensuing Lok Sabha polls, former chief minister Akhilesh Yadav said here on Thursday.&nbsp;

'We have planned joint rallies in Uttar Pradesh,' he told ANI in reply to a question about what transpired in his meeting with BSP president Mayawati on Wednesday.&nbsp;

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wing-commander-abhinandans-debiefing-complete-he-will-now-go-on-sick-leave-iaf-sources-203327">Wing Commander Abhinandan's debriefing complete, he will now go on sick leave: IAF sources</a>

Wing Commander Abhinandan Varathaman's debriefing is now complete, Indian Air Force sources said on Thursday.&nbsp;

The news agency ANI quoted the sources as saying Abhinandan will now go on sick leave for a few weeks on the advice of doctors at the army's Research and Referral Hospital in Delhi.&nbsp;

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-100-malaysian-schools-shut-after-toxic-waste-dump-203324">Over 100 Malaysian schools shut after </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-100-malaysian-schools-shut-after-toxic-waste-dump-203324">toxic</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-100-malaysian-schools-shut-after-toxic-waste-dump-203324"> waste dump</a>

Over 100 schools in Malaysia have been closed after the dumping of toxic waste into a river caused hundreds of people to fall ill, including many children, authorities said.

A lorry is believed to have dumped the waste in southern Johor state last week, sending hazardous fumes across a wide area and causing those affected to display symptoms of poisoning such as nausea and vomiting.

Rafale review petition: 'Security of state supersedes everything,' government tells Supreme Court Attorney General KK Venugopal told the Supreme Court Thursday that the "security of state supersedes everything".

Rafale review petition: 'Security of state supersedes everything,' government tells Supreme Court Attorney General KK Venugopal told the Supreme Court Thursday that the "security of state supersedes everything". The court is hearing a review petition of its earlier judgement in the Rafale case which had said the deal did not need to be investigated for corruption. The review petition has been filed by former union ministers Arun Shourie and Yashwant Sinha, and the lawyer Prashant Bhushan. EU's Donald Tusk backs 'long' delay if Britain 'rethinks' Brexit EU leader Donald Tusk said Thursday that European capitals could approve a long delay to Brexit, in a last-ditch push to persuade Prime Minister Theresa May to change her negotiating red lines. During consultations ahead of next week's EU summit, Tusk said he "will appeal to the EU27 to be open to a long extension if the UK finds it necessary to rethink its Brexit strategy and build consensus around it." Lok Sabha polls: SP & BSP will hold joint rallies in Uttar Pradesh, says Akhilesh In Uttar Pradesh, the SP and BSP will hold joint election rallies during the ensuing Lok Sabha polls, former chief minister Akhilesh Yadav said here on Thursday. 'We have planned joint rallies in Uttar Pradesh,' he told ANI in reply to a question about what transpired in his meeting with BSP president Mayawati on Wednesday. Wing Commander Abhinandan's debriefing complete, he will now go on sick leave: IAF sources Wing Commander Abhinandan Varathaman's debriefing is now complete, Indian Air Force sources said on Thursday. The news agency ANI quoted the sources as saying Abhinandan will now go on sick leave for a few weeks on the advice of doctors at the army's Research and Referral Hospital in Delhi. Over 100 Malaysian schools shut after toxic waste dump Over 100 schools in Malaysia have been closed after the dumping of toxic waste into a river caused hundreds of people to fall ill, including many children, authorities said. A lorry is believed to have dumped the waste in southern Johor state last week, sending hazardous fumes across a wide area and causing those affected to display symptoms of poisoning such as nausea and vomiting.

News brief: Big stories of the day

EU leader Donald Tusk said Thursday that European capitals could approve a long delay to Brexit, in a last-ditch push to persuade <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-vote-against-no-deal-brexit-next-up-is-vote-to-delay-leaving-203178">Prime Minister Theresa May</a> to change her negotiating red lines. &nbsp;&nbsp;

During consultations ahead of next week's EU summit, Tusk said he "will appeal to the EU27 to be open to a long extension if the UK finds it necessary to rethink its Brexit strategy and build consensus around it."

As president of the European Council, Tusk will be the host of the March 21 summit in Brussels that may be asked to decide whether to push back Britain's March 29 departure from the Union.

His tweeted intervention came as British MPs prepared the latest in a series of votes on Brexit, this time on whether to ask the EU for such an extension of the "Article 50" process.

May's government has said it plans to ask for a delay until June 30 if its parliament eventually votes to approve a draft withdrawal agreement already agreed with Europe, but twice massively rejected by lawmakers. &nbsp;

Tusk's support for a longer delay may encourage pro-divorce MPs fearful that a Brexit deal would "trap" London in the Union, to look again at May's proposed deal, which she insists is the best form of departure on offer.

But the EU leader's insistence on a "rethink" reflects Brussels' long-standing position that a softer Brexit is possible if May abandons red lines, especially her opposition to joining a customs union with Europe.

EU leader Donald Tusk said Thursday that European capitals could approve a long delay to Brexit, in a last-ditch push to persuade Prime Minister Theresa May to change her negotiating red lines.

EU leader Donald Tusk said Thursday that European capitals could approve a long delay to Brexit, in a last-ditch push to persuade Prime Minister Theresa May to change her negotiating red lines. During consultations ahead of next week's EU summit, Tusk said he "will appeal to the EU27 to be open to a long extension if the UK finds it necessary to rethink its Brexit strategy and build consensus around it." As president of the European Council, Tusk will be the host of the March 21 summit in Brussels that may be asked to decide whether to push back Britain's March 29 departure from the Union. His tweeted intervention came as British MPs prepared the latest in a series of votes on Brexit, this time on whether to ask the EU for such an extension of the "Article 50" process. May's government has said it plans to ask for a delay until June 30 if its parliament eventually votes to approve a draft withdrawal agreement already agreed with Europe, but twice massively rejected by lawmakers. Tusk's support for a longer delay may encourage pro-divorce MPs fearful that a Brexit deal would "trap" London in the Union, to look again at May's proposed deal, which she insists is the best form of departure on offer. But the EU leader's insistence on a "rethink" reflects Brussels' long-standing position that a softer Brexit is possible if May abandons red lines, especially her opposition to joining a customs union with Europe.

EU's Donald Tusk backs 'long' delay if Britain 'rethinks' Brexit

European Council President Donald Tusk called on voters across the continent to reject anti-European parties he said had been set up by hostile foreign forces and could try to use upcoming EU parliamentary elections to seize influence in Brussels.

Tusk, a centre-right former Polish prime minister who chairs summits of EU leaders, gave one of the starkest warnings yet from the bloc about the prospect that openly anti-EU parties could gain ground in May's European Parliament election.

"There are external anti-European forces which are seeking - openly or secretly - to influence the democratic choices of the Europeans," Tusk told a news conference, naming the "Leave" result in Britain's 2016 Brexit referendum as one such example.

"And it may again be the case with the European Parliament election in May," he said. "Do not allow political parties that are founded by external forces hostile to Europe to decide on key priorities of the EU and the leadership of European institutions."

Political parties seen as hostile to the EU have surged across the bloc, particularly since the 2015-2016 migration crisis that saw hundreds of thousands of asylum seekers arrive.

Nationalists now rule in Tusk's native Poland and in Hungary, and share power in coalitions in Italy and Austria. Polls anticipate parties with such views surging in the May vote, when EU citizens elect lawmakers to sit in the European Parliament.

Tusk offered praise for some reforms proposed by French President Emmanuel Macron, who has sought greater European cooperation in what he calls a "Renaissance of Europe".

Macron's proposals include a new European agency that would be charged with protecting democracy, to safeguard the bloc from cyber attacks and propaganda that undermine its elections and from foreign funding of political parties. Other proposals include bloc-wide agencies to deal with borders, security and asylum, and issues such as food safety.

"We cannot wait for the renaissance of Europe. The renaissance of Europe must start now," Tusk said. 
&nbsp;

European Council President Donald Tusk called on voters across the continent to reject anti-European parties he said had been set up by hostile foreign forces and could try to use upcoming EU parliamentary elections to seize influence in Brussels.

European Council President Donald Tusk called on voters across the continent to reject anti-European parties he said had been set up by hostile foreign forces and could try to use upcoming EU parliamentary elections to seize influence in Brussels. Tusk, a centre-right former Polish prime minister who chairs summits of EU leaders, gave one of the starkest warnings yet from the bloc about the prospect that openly anti-EU parties could gain ground in May's European Parliament election. "There are external anti-European forces which are seeking - openly or secretly - to influence the democratic choices of the Europeans," Tusk told a news conference, naming the "Leave" result in Britain's 2016 Brexit referendum as one such example. "And it may again be the case with the European Parliament election in May," he said. "Do not allow political parties that are founded by external forces hostile to Europe to decide on key priorities of the EU and the leadership of European institutions." Political parties seen as hostile to the EU have surged across the bloc, particularly since the 2015-2016 migration crisis that saw hundreds of thousands of asylum seekers arrive. Nationalists now rule in Tusk's native Poland and in Hungary, and share power in coalitions in Italy and Austria. Polls anticipate parties with such views surging in the May vote, when EU citizens elect lawmakers to sit in the European Parliament. Tusk offered praise for some reforms proposed by French President Emmanuel Macron, who has sought greater European cooperation in what he calls a "Renaissance of Europe". Macron's proposals include a new European agency that would be charged with protecting democracy, to safeguard the bloc from cyber attacks and propaganda that undermine its elections and from foreign funding of political parties. Other proposals include bloc-wide agencies to deal with borders, security and asylum, and issues such as food safety. "We cannot wait for the renaissance of Europe. The renaissance of Europe must start now," Tusk said.

Donald Tusk warns of hostile, foreign-funded parties ahead of EU parliamentary elections

European Council President Donald Tusk said on Monday that delaying Brexit beyond the scheduled exit date of March 29 would be a "rational solution" as there was no majority in the British parliament to approve a divorce deal.

"I believe that in the situation we are in, an extension would be a rational decision, but Prime Minister May still believes she will be able to avoid this scenario," Tusk told a news conference in Egypt a day after seeing the British leader.

Tusk said May and he discussed "legal and political context of a potential extension" of Britain's two-year limit on Brexit negotiations that expires on March 29.

"For me, it's absolutely clear that there is no majority in the House of Commons to approve a deal. We will face an alternative, chaotic Brexit, or an extension," Tusk said.

"The less time there is until the 29th of March, the greater the likelihood of an extension. And this is an objective fact, not our plan or our objective, but an objective fact."

European Council President Donald Tusk said on Monday that delaying Brexit beyond the scheduled exit date of March 29 would be a "rational solution" as there was no majority in the British parliament to approve a divorce deal.

European Council President Donald Tusk said on Monday that delaying Brexit beyond the scheduled exit date of March 29 would be a "rational solution" as there was no majority in the British parliament to approve a divorce deal. "I believe that in the situation we are in, an extension would be a rational decision, but Prime Minister May still believes she will be able to avoid this scenario," Tusk told a news conference in Egypt a day after seeing the British leader. Tusk said May and he discussed "legal and political context of a potential extension" of Britain's two-year limit on Brexit negotiations that expires on March 29. "For me, it's absolutely clear that there is no majority in the House of Commons to approve a deal. We will face an alternative, chaotic Brexit, or an extension," Tusk said. "The less time there is until the 29th of March, the greater the likelihood of an extension. And this is an objective fact, not our plan or our objective, but an objective fact."

European Union's Tusk says Brexit delay would be 'rational'

Three members of Prime Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-theresa-may-to-meet-tusk-but-no-brexit-deal-in-the-desert-199045">Theresa May</a>'s cabinet warned Saturday that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uk-labour-leader-corbyn-says-he-could-back-a-second-brexit-referendum-199072http://www.wionews.com/world/uk-labour-leader-corbyn-says-he-could-back-a-second-brexit-referendum-199072">Brexit</a> must be delayed if she cannot persuade the British parliament to back her EU divorce deal next week.

Business minister Greg Clark, work and pensions minister Amber Rudd and justice minister David Gauke wrote an article stating their opposition to leaving the European Union on March 29 with no deal.

May is currently scrambling to secure changes to the divorce text she struck with the bloc in November, hoping to win the support of MPs who last month rejected the deal by a massive margin.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-breakthrough-possible-within-days-uk-finance-minister-philip-hammond-198751">Brexit breakthrough possible within days, says UK finance minister Philip Hammond</a>

"If there is no breakthrough in the coming week, the balance of opinion in parliament is clear -- that it would be better to seek to... delay our date of departure rather than crash out of the European Union on March 29," the ministers wrote in the Daily Mail newspaper.

They added: "Beyond the next few days, there simply will not be time to agree on a deal and complete all the necessary legislation before March 29."

But they warned that leaving the EU with no deal would "severely" damage the economy, weaken national security and risk the break-up of the UK.

May was in Brussels this week for talks with European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker and will meet European Council president Donald Tusk on Sunday at an EU-Arab League summit in Egypt.

She has promised to update parliament on her efforts on Tuesday and either put the new deal to a fresh vote of MPs or allow them on Wednesday to debate their own ideas for the way forward.

One of these is expected to be a plan to delay Brexit to avoid a "no deal" scenario.

The ministers warned their hardline Brexit-supporting colleagues who continue to oppose May's Brexit deal that MPs will not allow Britain to leave the EU with no deal by default.

"If that happens, they (the eurosceptics) will have no-one to blame but themselves for delaying Brexit," they said. 
&nbsp;

Three members of Prime Minister Theresa May's cabinet warned Saturday that Brexit must be delayed if she cannot persuade the British parliament to back her EU divorce deal next week.

Three members of Prime Minister Theresa May's cabinet warned Saturday that Brexit must be delayed if she cannot persuade the British parliament to back her EU divorce deal next week. Business minister Greg Clark, work and pensions minister Amber Rudd and justice minister David Gauke wrote an article stating their opposition to leaving the European Union on March 29 with no deal. May is currently scrambling to secure changes to the divorce text she struck with the bloc in November, hoping to win the support of MPs who last month rejected the deal by a massive margin. Also read: Brexit breakthrough possible within days, says UK finance minister Philip Hammond "If there is no breakthrough in the coming week, the balance of opinion in parliament is clear -- that it would be better to seek to... delay our date of departure rather than crash out of the European Union on March 29," the ministers wrote in the Daily Mail newspaper. They added: "Beyond the next few days, there simply will not be time to agree on a deal and complete all the necessary legislation before March 29." But they warned that leaving the EU with no deal would "severely" damage the economy, weaken national security and risk the break-up of the UK. May was in Brussels this week for talks with European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker and will meet European Council president Donald Tusk on Sunday at an EU-Arab League summit in Egypt. She has promised to update parliament on her efforts on Tuesday and either put the new deal to a fresh vote of MPs or allow them on Wednesday to debate their own ideas for the way forward. One of these is expected to be a plan to delay Brexit to avoid a "no deal" scenario. The ministers warned their hardline Brexit-supporting colleagues who continue to oppose May's Brexit deal that MPs will not allow Britain to leave the EU with no deal by default. "If that happens, they (the eurosceptics) will have no-one to blame but themselves for delaying Brexit," they said.

UK ministers warn PM Theresa May to get her deal now or delay Brexit

Prime Minister Theresa May will meet EU leader Donald Tusk on Sunday ahead of a summit with Arab leaders, officials said, but should not expect a Brexit breakthrough.

The British leader will sit down with Tusk, president of the European Council, in the Egyptian resort of Sharm el-Sheikh ahead of the European Union talks with the Arab League.

Tusk represents the governments of EU member states and holds the key to any progress in May's effort to lobby Brussels to renegotiate the terms of Britain's departure from the bloc.

He did not meet May when she was in Brussels earlier the week for talks with EU Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker, and officials here do not expect a breakthrough when he sees her at 4:30 pm on Sunday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"There will be no deal in the desert in Sharm el-Sheikh, this is a summit between the EU and the Arab states," an EU source told reporters in Brussels.

Another official said: "It's an opportunity where everyone can talk, but don't expect a deal there."

Only 24 of the 28 EU leaders have confirmed they will attend the Red Sea summit, and all would have to be present to agree on any new or modified Brexit deal.

Nevertheless, May is expected to meet some of her counterparts one-on-one on the sidelines of the meeting to push her case for changes to the divorce agreement.

This could pave the way towards a later breakthrough, perhaps at the next planned full EU summit on March 21 and 22, just a week before Britain leaves the bloc.

'We don't need extra time'

On Friday, EU negotiator Michel Barnier told France's Europe 1 radio it was time for May to take a decision and present a Brexit plan to her parliament. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"We don't need extra time, what we need now is a decision and for everyone to take responsibility," he said.

He did not exclude granting Britain more negotiating time, but said it was now up to the British "to take their responsibilities and assume the consequences of decisions they took democratically".

Brussels, however, is open to adopting a more ambitious political declaration, alongside the legally binding withdrawal treaty that would set a roadmap for negotiating close EU-UK trade ties.

The British government said Thursday that Brexit talks will focus on securing new guarantees to reassure lawmakers, rather than on demanding that a divorce deal already concluded with the EU be reopened.

EU leaders insist on the withdrawal agreement, which they struck with Britain last year, cannot be renegotiated to appease British MPs who rejected it in parliament.

Brussels, however, is open to adopting a more ambitious political declaration, alongside the legally binding withdrawal treaty that would set a roadmap for negotiating close EU-UK trade ties.

May's official position remains that the "simplest" way to agree to a deal that would pass the British parliament would be to negotiate changes to the agreement.

But EU officials noted that Thursday's British statement "acknowledged" that Brussels has said this will be impossible.

"Officially she has not dropped her demand, but in practice, she has realised that she should put her energy on another text," one European official said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Prime Minister Theresa May will meet EU leader Donald Tusk on Sunday ahead of a summit with Arab leaders, officials said, but should not expect a Brexit breakthrough.

Prime Minister Theresa May will meet EU leader Donald Tusk on Sunday ahead of a summit with Arab leaders, officials said, but should not expect a Brexit breakthrough. The British leader will sit down with Tusk, president of the European Council, in the Egyptian resort of Sharm el-Sheikh ahead of the European Union talks with the Arab League. Tusk represents the governments of EU member states and holds the key to any progress in May's effort to lobby Brussels to renegotiate the terms of Britain's departure from the bloc. He did not meet May when she was in Brussels earlier the week for talks with EU Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker, and officials here do not expect a breakthrough when he sees her at 4:30 pm on Sunday. "There will be no deal in the desert in Sharm el-Sheikh, this is a summit between the EU and the Arab states," an EU source told reporters in Brussels. Another official said: "It's an opportunity where everyone can talk, but don't expect a deal there." Only 24 of the 28 EU leaders have confirmed they will attend the Red Sea summit, and all would have to be present to agree on any new or modified Brexit deal. Nevertheless, May is expected to meet some of her counterparts one-on-one on the sidelines of the meeting to push her case for changes to the divorce agreement. This could pave the way towards a later breakthrough, perhaps at the next planned full EU summit on March 21 and 22, just a week before Britain leaves the bloc. 'We don't need extra time' On Friday, EU negotiator Michel Barnier told France's Europe 1 radio it was time for May to take a decision and present a Brexit plan to her parliament. "We don't need extra time, what we need now is a decision and for everyone to take responsibility," he said. He did not exclude granting Britain more negotiating time, but said it was now up to the British "to take their responsibilities and assume the consequences of decisions they took democratically". Brussels, however, is open to adopting a more ambitious political declaration, alongside the legally binding withdrawal treaty that would set a roadmap for negotiating close EU-UK trade ties. The British government said Thursday that Brexit talks will focus on securing new guarantees to reassure lawmakers, rather than on demanding that a divorce deal already concluded with the EU be reopened. EU leaders insist on the withdrawal agreement, which they struck with Britain last year, cannot be renegotiated to appease British MPs who rejected it in parliament. Brussels, however, is open to adopting a more ambitious political declaration, alongside the legally binding withdrawal treaty that would set a roadmap for negotiating close EU-UK trade ties. May's official position remains that the "simplest" way to agree to a deal that would pass the British parliament would be to negotiate changes to the agreement. But EU officials noted that Thursday's British statement "acknowledged" that Brussels has said this will be impossible. "Officially she has not dropped her demand, but in practice, she has realised that she should put her energy on another text," one European official said.

UK PM Theresa May to meet Tusk, but no Brexit 'deal in the desert'

Both Britain's minister for Brexit Stephen Barclay and opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn will visit Brussels next week for talks with EU negotiator Michel Barnier.

"Mr Barnier's door is always open," an EU spokesman said, confirming that Barclay was expected to visit EU headquarters on Monday and Corbyn on Thursday.

Prime Minister Theresa May is also expected in Brussels next week, but the visit has not been confirmed.&nbsp;

Britain is due to leave the EU on March 29, but Prime Minister Theresa May is struggling to persuade parliament to back a divorce deal.

EU leaders fear severe economic disruption if London leaves the bloc without a follow on agreement providing for a transition period to negotiate a trade deal.

Corbyn has suggested Labour MPs would rescue the withdrawal plan if EU leaders promise to allow Britain to remain in the EU customs union.

May and many of her Conservative MPs reject that idea, but Barnier and EU Council President Donald Tusk have described it as "interesting".

Both Britain's minister for Brexit Stephen Barclay and opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn will visit Brussels next week for talks with EU negotiator Michel Barnier.

Both Britain's minister for Brexit Stephen Barclay and opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn will visit Brussels next week for talks with EU negotiator Michel Barnier. "Mr Barnier's door is always open," an EU spokesman said, confirming that Barclay was expected to visit EU headquarters on Monday and Corbyn on Thursday. Prime Minister Theresa May is also expected in Brussels next week, but the visit has not been confirmed. Britain is due to leave the EU on March 29, but Prime Minister Theresa May is struggling to persuade parliament to back a divorce deal. EU leaders fear severe economic disruption if London leaves the bloc without a follow on agreement providing for a transition period to negotiate a trade deal. Corbyn has suggested Labour MPs would rescue the withdrawal plan if EU leaders promise to allow Britain to remain in the EU customs union. May and many of her Conservative MPs reject that idea, but Barnier and EU Council President Donald Tusk have described it as "interesting".

New Brexit talks in Brussels next week

British Prime Minister Theresa May could face a defeat in parliament on Thursday over her plan to renegotiate the Brexit deal, undermining her pledge to the European Union that, with changes, she can get the agreement approved.

Thursday's symbolic vote was seen by May's team as little more than a rubber stamp of her plan to secure changes to the divorce deal with the EU, giving her more time to satisfy lawmakers' concerns over one part of it — the Irish backstop.

But hardline Brexit supporters in her governing Conservative Party are angry over what they say is her acceptance of ruling out a no-deal departure, something May and her team deny, saying by law Britain will leave the EU on March 29 without an agreement if no deal is struck.

Also read:<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/its-mays-deal-or-long-brexit-delay-uks-chief-negotiator-overheard-saying-in-bar-197142"> It's May's deal or long Brexit delay, UK's chief negotiator overheard saying in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/its-mays-deal-or-long-brexit-delay-uks-chief-negotiator-overheard-saying-in-bar-197142">bar</a>

The latest twist in the two-year negotiation to leave the EU underlines the deep divisions in parliament over how, or even whether, Britain should leave the bloc in the country's biggest political and trade policy shift in more than 40 years.

A rebellion, even in a symbolic vote, would be a blow to May, who has insisted to EU leaders that if they offer her more concessions to the deal agreed in November, she can command a majority in parliament and get the agreement passed.

Trade minister Liam Fox urged lawmakers to back the prime minister, warning: "Our European partners will be watching".

Steve Baker, a member of the pro-Brexit European Research Group of Conservative lawmakers, said no lawmaker in the governing party could be associated with anything which seems to take a "no-deal Brexit" off the table.

"Compromising no deal would be the daftest negotiating strategy and not in the national interest," he said on Twitter.

Another Conservative lawmaker said the ERG was still discussing which strategy to pursue on Thursday - to vote against or abstain.

May is trying to secure changes to the backstop arrangement to prevent a return of border controls between Northern Ireland and EU-member Ireland to ease concerns that Britain will be kept too closely in the EU's orbit indefinitely or that the British province will be split away.

Extend stay

On Wednesday, European Council President Donald Tusk said the bloc was waiting for Britain to present solid proposals to break the impasse after meetings in Brussels and telephone calls between May and EU leaders.

Some Conservative and many opposition lawmakers accuse May of "running down the clock", edging Britain closer to the exit date to try to force parliament to choose between backing her deal or leaving without an agreement.

Many businesses say that outcome would be catastrophic for the world's fifth largest economy by causing major delays at ports, fracturing international supply chains and hindering investment.

More than 40 former British ambassadors called on the government to extend Britain's stay in the EU or allow for a second referendum, The Times newspaper reported. May has repeatedly said she does not back a second vote.

To try to prevent a no deal, several lawmakers will try to get parliament to back their alternative proposals on Thursday, with options including calling a second referendum, a delay to Brexit, votes on a range of options and even a push to reverse the decision to leave the EU.

It is not clear whether any will win enough support to pass, with lawmakers who are seeking to force the government to delay Brexit saying they will wait until the next round of votes May has promised on Feb. 27 to make their move.

British Prime Minister Theresa May could face a defeat in parliament on Thursday over her plan to renegotiate the Brexit deal, undermining her pledge to the European Union that, with changes, she can get the agreement approved.

British Prime Minister Theresa May could face a defeat in parliament on Thursday over her plan to renegotiate the Brexit deal, undermining her pledge to the European Union that, with changes, she can get the agreement approved. Thursday's symbolic vote was seen by May's team as little more than a rubber stamp of her plan to secure changes to the divorce deal with the EU, giving her more time to satisfy lawmakers' concerns over one part of it — the Irish backstop. But hardline Brexit supporters in her governing Conservative Party are angry over what they say is her acceptance of ruling out a no-deal departure, something May and her team deny, saying by law Britain will leave the EU on March 29 without an agreement if no deal is struck. Also read: It's May's deal or long Brexit delay, UK's chief negotiator overheard saying in bar The latest twist in the two-year negotiation to leave the EU underlines the deep divisions in parliament over how, or even whether, Britain should leave the bloc in the country's biggest political and trade policy shift in more than 40 years. A rebellion, even in a symbolic vote, would be a blow to May, who has insisted to EU leaders that if they offer her more concessions to the deal agreed in November, she can command a majority in parliament and get the agreement passed. Trade minister Liam Fox urged lawmakers to back the prime minister, warning: "Our European partners will be watching". Steve Baker, a member of the pro-Brexit European Research Group of Conservative lawmakers, said no lawmaker in the governing party could be associated with anything which seems to take a "no-deal Brexit" off the table. "Compromising no deal would be the daftest negotiating strategy and not in the national interest," he said on Twitter. Another Conservative lawmaker said the ERG was still discussing which strategy to pursue on Thursday - to vote against or abstain. May is trying to secure changes to the backstop arrangement to prevent a return of border controls between Northern Ireland and EU-member Ireland to ease concerns that Britain will be kept too closely in the EU's orbit indefinitely or that the British province will be split away. Extend stay On Wednesday, European Council President Donald Tusk said the bloc was waiting for Britain to present solid proposals to break the impasse after meetings in Brussels and telephone calls between May and EU leaders. Some Conservative and many opposition lawmakers accuse May of "running down the clock", edging Britain closer to the exit date to try to force parliament to choose between backing her deal or leaving without an agreement. Many businesses say that outcome would be catastrophic for the world's fifth largest economy by causing major delays at ports, fracturing international supply chains and hindering investment. More than 40 former British ambassadors called on the government to extend Britain's stay in the EU or allow for a second referendum, The Times newspaper reported. May has repeatedly said she does not back a second vote. To try to prevent a no deal, several lawmakers will try to get parliament to back their alternative proposals on Thursday, with options including calling a second referendum, a delay to Brexit, votes on a range of options and even a push to reverse the decision to leave the EU. It is not clear whether any will win enough support to pass, with lawmakers who are seeking to force the government to delay Brexit saying they will wait until the next round of votes May has promised on Feb. 27 to make their move.

Britain's PM May could face yet another Brexit defeat in parliament

British politicians reacted angrily on Wednesday to European Union leader Donald Tusk after he wondered "what special place in Hell" awaited those who advocated Brexit without a clear plan, calling him a "devilish Euro maniac".

"Donald Tusk once again shows his contempt for the 17.4 million people who voted to escape the corruption of the EU," said Sammy Wilson, Brexit spokesman for Northern Ireland's Democratic Unionist Party.

"This devilish Euro maniac is doing his best to keep the United Kingdom bound by the chains of EU bureaucracy and control," he added.

Tusk made the comments at a news conference in Brussels, where he was flanked by Irish leader Leo Varadkar.

Conservative MP Andrea Leadsom and prominent Leave supporter demanded an apology, calling Tusks's comments "spiteful".

"I think that what he has said is pretty unacceptable and pretty disgraceful," she told BBC Radio 4.

"I'm sure that when he reflects on it he may well wish he hadn't done it."

Fellow Tory and veteran eurosceptic Peter Bone said it was a "completely outrageous insult.

"I don't recall any president insulting members of this House, members of the government and the British people in such a way," he said.

But anti-Brexit MPs were supportive of Tusks's comments.

"Sometimes the truth hurts, doesn't it?" Joanna Cherry, an MP from the Scottish National Party, said in parlaiment.

Campaign group For our Futures' Sake said Tusk was "entirely correct".&nbsp;

The outburst dominated the online editions of Britain's newspapers, with Brexit-supporting tabloid The Sun leading with the headline "EU'VE LOST IT", adding that "sneering Donald Tusk has taken an extraordinary dig at Brexiteers".

The Mail Online carried a picture of Tusk in high spirits with Varadkar after the news conference, underneath the headline "EU President Tusk is caught laughing at the row he will cause".

Brexit figurehead Jacob Rees-Mogg, a staunch Catholic, questioned Tusk's theological credentials, saying he was "hardly in the Aquinas class...and he seems to have forgotten the commandment about not bearing false witness".

Leave supporting Tory MP Simon Clarke said the European Council president's comment's "push me towards supporting a clean break and No Deal".

Prominent Brexit campaigner Douglas Carswell also suggested that Tusk's comments "will inadvertently nudge things closer towards a clean departure from the EU".

Gerard Batten, leader of the anti-EU UKIP party, said the comments were a sign that Tusk was "getting overwrought".&nbsp;

"Mr Tusk has forgotten that in Dante's Inferno the lowest level in Hell is reserved for traitors. I would remind him that those who want their country governed by a foreign power are traitors," he added.

British politicians reacted angrily on Wednesday to European Union leader Donald Tusk after he wondered "what special place in Hell" awaited those who advocated Brexit without a clear plan, calling him a "devilish Euro maniac".

British politicians reacted angrily on Wednesday to European Union leader Donald Tusk after he wondered "what special place in Hell" awaited those who advocated Brexit without a clear plan, calling him a "devilish Euro maniac". "Donald Tusk once again shows his contempt for the 17.4 million people who voted to escape the corruption of the EU," said Sammy Wilson, Brexit spokesman for Northern Ireland's Democratic Unionist Party. "This devilish Euro maniac is doing his best to keep the United Kingdom bound by the chains of EU bureaucracy and control," he added. Tusk made the comments at a news conference in Brussels, where he was flanked by Irish leader Leo Varadkar. Conservative MP Andrea Leadsom and prominent Leave supporter demanded an apology, calling Tusks's comments "spiteful". "I think that what he has said is pretty unacceptable and pretty disgraceful," she told BBC Radio 4. "I'm sure that when he reflects on it he may well wish he hadn't done it." Fellow Tory and veteran eurosceptic Peter Bone said it was a "completely outrageous insult. "I don't recall any president insulting members of this House, members of the government and the British people in such a way," he said. But anti-Brexit MPs were supportive of Tusks's comments. "Sometimes the truth hurts, doesn't it?" Joanna Cherry, an MP from the Scottish National Party, said in parlaiment. Campaign group For our Futures' Sake said Tusk was "entirely correct". The outburst dominated the online editions of Britain's newspapers, with Brexit-supporting tabloid The Sun leading with the headline "EU'VE LOST IT", adding that "sneering Donald Tusk has taken an extraordinary dig at Brexiteers". The Mail Online carried a picture of Tusk in high spirits with Varadkar after the news conference, underneath the headline "EU President Tusk is caught laughing at the row he will cause". Brexit figurehead Jacob Rees-Mogg, a staunch Catholic, questioned Tusk's theological credentials, saying he was "hardly in the Aquinas class...and he seems to have forgotten the commandment about not bearing false witness". Leave supporting Tory MP Simon Clarke said the European Council president's comment's "push me towards supporting a clean break and No Deal". Prominent Brexit campaigner Douglas Carswell also suggested that Tusk's comments "will inadvertently nudge things closer towards a clean departure from the EU". Gerard Batten, leader of the anti-EU UKIP party, said the comments were a sign that Tusk was "getting overwrought". "Mr Tusk has forgotten that in Dante's Inferno the lowest level in Hell is reserved for traitors. I would remind him that those who want their country governed by a foreign power are traitors," he added.

UK MPs outraged by Tusk's 'special place in Hell' slur

EU summit chairman Donald Tusk said he had abandoned hope that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/delaying-brexit-would-extend-uncertainty-uk-business-minister-195601">Brexit might be stopped</a> and said on Wednesday his priority was now to avert a "fiasco" in 50 days if Britain crashes out without a deal.

Assuring Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar of the solidarity of all other member states as Dublin insists Britain give legal guarantees to avoid disrupting the Northern Ireland border, Tusk told a joint news conference in Brussels that he saw no force capable of blocking a "pro-Brexit" government and opposition.

As British <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-may-seeks-a-border-compromise-in-northern-ireland-195606">Prime Minister Theresa May</a> prepares to meet EU officials in Brussels on Thursday with a mandate from lawmakers to rework the withdrawal treaty she agreed with the Union in November, Tusk and Varadkar both echoed other European leaders in ruling out change to the text, including the Irish "backstop" -- the protocol which parliament roundly rejected last month.

"I hope that tomorrow we will hear from Prime Minister May a realistic suggestion on how to end the impasse," Tusk said.

"I strongly believe that a common solution is possible."

Tusk, the European Council president, said, however, that the EU must step up planning for Britain leaving on March 29 without having a legal agreement: "A sense of responsibility also tells us to prepare for a possible fiasco," he said.

"SPECIAL PLACE IN HELL"

In combative mood, he added that those who promoted Brexit without offering a clear plan for how to unravel safely 46 years of membership deserved "a special place in hell".

A former Polish prime minister, Tusk has been a notable EU voice in encouraging Britons to try to reverse the result of the 2016 Brexit referendum but on Wednesday he was notably downbeat.

"I know that still a very great number of people ... wish for a reversal of this decision. I have always been with you, with all my heart. But the facts are unmistakable."

He said the "pro-Brexit stance" of May and opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn meant that "today, there is no political force and no effective leadership for remain".

Varadkar, visiting Brussels a day before May as Ireland strives to protect its interests in the bloc as its former colonial ruler and main trading partner quits, said the Brexit deal made last year was "the best deal possible".

Dublin, he insisted, would not give up on an open-ended backstop obliging Britain to retain many EU rules until a better way could be found to keep goods flowing unchecked across the new EU-UK land border across the island of Ireland.

"We expect that the backstop would never be used," Varadkar said. But, he added: "The instability of UK politics in recent weeks demonstrates exactly why we need a legal guarantee."

EU summit chairman Donald Tusk said he had abandoned hope that Brexit might be stopped and said on Wednesday his priority was now to avert a "fiasco" in 50 days if Britain crashes out without a deal.

EU summit chairman Donald Tusk said he had abandoned hope that Brexit might be stopped and said on Wednesday his priority was now to avert a "fiasco" in 50 days if Britain crashes out without a deal. Assuring Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar of the solidarity of all other member states as Dublin insists Britain give legal guarantees to avoid disrupting the Northern Ireland border, Tusk told a joint news conference in Brussels that he saw no force capable of blocking a "pro-Brexit" government and opposition. As British Prime Minister Theresa May prepares to meet EU officials in Brussels on Thursday with a mandate from lawmakers to rework the withdrawal treaty she agreed with the Union in November, Tusk and Varadkar both echoed other European leaders in ruling out change to the text, including the Irish "backstop" -- the protocol which parliament roundly rejected last month. "I hope that tomorrow we will hear from Prime Minister May a realistic suggestion on how to end the impasse," Tusk said. "I strongly believe that a common solution is possible." Tusk, the European Council president, said, however, that the EU must step up planning for Britain leaving on March 29 without having a legal agreement: "A sense of responsibility also tells us to prepare for a possible fiasco," he said. "SPECIAL PLACE IN HELL" In combative mood, he added that those who promoted Brexit without offering a clear plan for how to unravel safely 46 years of membership deserved "a special place in hell". A former Polish prime minister, Tusk has been a notable EU voice in encouraging Britons to try to reverse the result of the 2016 Brexit referendum but on Wednesday he was notably downbeat. "I know that still a very great number of people ... wish for a reversal of this decision. I have always been with you, with all my heart. But the facts are unmistakable." He said the "pro-Brexit stance" of May and opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn meant that "today, there is no political force and no effective leadership for remain". Varadkar, visiting Brussels a day before May as Ireland strives to protect its interests in the bloc as its former colonial ruler and main trading partner quits, said the Brexit deal made last year was "the best deal possible". Dublin, he insisted, would not give up on an open-ended backstop obliging Britain to retain many EU rules until a better way could be found to keep goods flowing unchecked across the new EU-UK land border across the island of Ireland. "We expect that the backstop would never be used," Varadkar said. But, he added: "The instability of UK politics in recent weeks demonstrates exactly why we need a legal guarantee."

European Union now sees Brexit as unstoppable, aims to avert 'fiasco'

European Council President Donald Tusk said on Wednesday he hoped <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-may-seeks-a-border-compromise-in-northern-ireland-195606">British Prime Minister Theresa May</a> would come to Brussels on Thursday with "realistic suggestions" on how to break the Brexit impasse as the EU would not re-open the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/delaying-brexit-would-extend-uncertainty-uk-business-minister-195601">Brexit deal</a>.

Tusk, speaking at a joint news conference with Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar after their talks in Brussels, reiterated the European Union's stance that the Irish border backstop in the withdrawal agreement had to stay.

"I've been wondering what that special place in hell looks like, for those who promoted Brexit, without even a sketch of a plan how to carry it out safely," Tusk said.

Varadkar said the Brexit deal, which has since been rejected by the UK parliament, was "the best possible". He said Britain's recent political instability was yet another proof of why the backstop was needed.

European Council President Donald Tusk said on Wednesday he hoped British Prime Minister Theresa May would come to Brussels on Thursday with "realistic suggestions" on how to break the Brexit impasse as the EU would not re-open the Brexit deal.

European Council President Donald Tusk said on Wednesday he hoped British Prime Minister Theresa May would come to Brussels on Thursday with "realistic suggestions" on how to break the Brexit impasse as the EU would not re-open the Brexit deal. Tusk, speaking at a joint news conference with Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar after their talks in Brussels, reiterated the European Union's stance that the Irish border backstop in the withdrawal agreement had to stay. "I've been wondering what that special place in hell looks like, for those who promoted Brexit, without even a sketch of a plan how to carry it out safely," Tusk said. Varadkar said the Brexit deal, which has since been rejected by the UK parliament, was "the best possible". He said Britain's recent political instability was yet another proof of why the backstop was needed.

Will not reopen Brexit deal, hope Theresa May has new proposals: European Union

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-top-court-tells-army-to-stay-out-of-politics-media-195566">Pakistan Supreme Court tells </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-top-court-tells-army-to-stay-out-of-politics-media-195566">army</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-top-court-tells-army-to-stay-out-of-politics-media-195566"> to stay out of politics, media</a>

Pakistan's Supreme Court rebuked the country's powerful military and intelligence agencies Wednesday, calling for them to uphold free speech and stay out of politics in a country ruled by the generals for nearly half its existence.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/robert-vadra-reaches-ed-office-195573">Money-laundering case: Robert Vadra at ED office, is being questioned by </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/robert-vadra-reaches-ed-office-195573">team</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/robert-vadra-reaches-ed-office-195573"> of 7</a>

Robert Vadra arrived at the Delhi offices of the Enforcement Directorate on Wednesday to be questioned in connection with a money-laundering case. the case relates to the alleged possession of illegal foreign assets.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/eu-wont-re-open-brexit-deal-hope-may-will-have-new-proposals-donald-tusk-195619">Will not reopen Brexit deal, hope May has new proposals: European Union</a>

European Council President Donald Tusk said on Wednesday he hoped British Prime Minister Theresa May would come to Brussels on Thursday with "realistic suggestions" on how to break the Brexit impasse as the EU would not re-open the Brexit deal.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/with-eight-batsmen-we-should-be-able-to-chase-big-totals-rohit-sharma-195597">India captain Rohit Sharma blames batsmen for 1st T20I loss to New Zealand</a>

India skipper Rohit Sharma Wednesday said that a line-up with eight specialist batsmen should have chased down the 220-run target set by New Zealand, however steep it might have looked for a T20 match.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sabarimala-row-support-supreme-court-verdict-will-lift-ban-on-entry-of-women-says-temple-board-195559">Sabarimala Board tells Supreme Court: Support your verdict, will allow entry of women into temple</a>

In a massive U-turn, the Travancore Dewasom Board, which runs Kerala's Sabarimala temple, told the Supreme Court Wednesday that it now supports the court's September 28, 2018 verdict allowing all women into the shrine.

Pakistan Supreme Court tells army to stay out of politics, media Pakistan's Supreme Court rebuked the country's powerful military and intelligence agencies Wednesday, calling for them to uphold free speech and stay out of politics in a country ruled by the generals for nearly half its existence.

Pakistan Supreme Court tells army to stay out of politics, media Pakistan's Supreme Court rebuked the country's powerful military and intelligence agencies Wednesday, calling for them to uphold free speech and stay out of politics in a country ruled by the generals for nearly half its existence. Money-laundering case: Robert Vadra at ED office, is being questioned by team of 7 Robert Vadra arrived at the Delhi offices of the Enforcement Directorate on Wednesday to be questioned in connection with a money-laundering case. the case relates to the alleged possession of illegal foreign assets. Will not reopen Brexit deal, hope May has new proposals: European Union European Council President Donald Tusk said on Wednesday he hoped British Prime Minister Theresa May would come to Brussels on Thursday with "realistic suggestions" on how to break the Brexit impasse as the EU would not re-open the Brexit deal. India captain Rohit Sharma blames batsmen for 1st T20I loss to New Zealand India skipper Rohit Sharma Wednesday said that a line-up with eight specialist batsmen should have chased down the 220-run target set by New Zealand, however steep it might have looked for a T20 match. Sabarimala Board tells Supreme Court: Support your verdict, will allow entry of women into temple In a massive U-turn, the Travancore Dewasom Board, which runs Kerala's Sabarimala temple, told the Supreme Court Wednesday that it now supports the court's September 28, 2018 verdict allowing all women into the shrine.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-i-dont-want-to-leave-eu-without-a-deal-pm-theresa-may-to-lawmakers-193765">British Prime Minister Theresa May</a> won parliament's backing on Tuesday to renegotiate her Brexit deal — a major policy reversal that sets up a new standoff with the EU after it ruled out any change.

May's dramatic decision to abandon a pact she herself sealed with the 27 EU leaders at a summit last month came with Britain on course to crash out of the bloc after 46 years in a blaze of political and economic chaos on March 29.

The pound quickly fell on fears of a no-deal scenario as MPs voted through an amendment saying they would only support a divorce deal if its controversial "backstop" clause to keep the Irish border open was removed.

A spokesman for EU leader Donald Tusk said the deal was "not open for renegotiation" while French President Emmanuel Macron said it was the "best agreement possible".

MPs also voted in favour of a non-binding measure that "rejects the United Kingdom leaving the European Union without a Withdrawal Agreement".

But they failed to vote through a more important plan — backed by European supporters — that would have tried to force through a Brexit delay if no new deal with the EU emerged by February 26.

May now faces a formidable challenge convincing Brussels to re-open talks that took 18 excruciating months to conclude.

She said parliament's approval of the backstop amendment gave her the "mandate" to "seek to obtain legally binding changes to the withdrawal agreement".

But she conceded that there was "limited appetite" in the EU for renegotiation.

"It won't be easy," said May. "But in contrast to a fortnight ago, this house has made it clear what it needs to approve the withdrawal agreement."

'Alternative arrangement' 
Parliament on January 15 voted against the draft deal by a crushing margin.

That significantly raised the risk that Britain's departure without a plan on March 29 will create trade and economic disruptions on both sides of the Channel.

Brexit hardliners from May's Conservative party think the backstop -- created to keep the border open with Ireland -- could see Britain indefinitely tied to EU trade rules.

The winning amendment calls for the backstop to be replaced with "alternative arrangements to avoid a hard border" -- vague wording that did not pin May to any specific approach.

- Playing for time? - 
Yet analysts struggled to see how May could convince her EU counterparts to agree to any changes.

"The only strategy I can see behind all this is the prime minister uses this to finally prove to all but her most recalcitrant backbenchers that the backstop cannot be renegotiated," King's College London professor Anand Menon said.

"She is going to have to come back definitely and say this deal isn't on offer," Menon said.

University College London professor Morten Ravn agreed that May appeared to be playing for time.

"May won support for an amendment that she probably expects she cannot deliver on in the hope that parliament will support her deal last minute in order to avoid no-deal Brexit," Ravn told AFP.

May promised to give MPs a chance to vote on what happens next on February 14 should she fail to win a new agreement over the course of the next two weeks.

'Nothing changes' 
May already tried and failed to wrest new concessions from Brussels during a difficult summit last month that exposed her weak negotiating position -- and the European Union's resolve.

EU Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier's deputy Sabine Weyand on Monday remarked that the current political debate in Britain felt "like Groundhog Day".

She said Britain risked crashing out of the EU without a deal "by accident" because London cannot decide what it wants.

Following Tuesday's votes, Irish foreign minister Simon Coveney said the he hoped the backstop would "never be used" or replaced quickly by a new trade agreement.

"But it is necessary and tonight's developments at Westminster do nothing to change this," Coveney tweeted.

British Prime Minister Theresa May won parliament's backing on Tuesday to renegotiate her Brexit deal — a major policy reversal that sets up a new standoff with the EU after it ruled out any change.

British Prime Minister Theresa May won parliament's backing on Tuesday to renegotiate her Brexit deal — a major policy reversal that sets up a new standoff with the EU after it ruled out any change. May's dramatic decision to abandon a pact she herself sealed with the 27 EU leaders at a summit last month came with Britain on course to crash out of the bloc after 46 years in a blaze of political and economic chaos on March 29. The pound quickly fell on fears of a no-deal scenario as MPs voted through an amendment saying they would only support a divorce deal if its controversial "backstop" clause to keep the Irish border open was removed. A spokesman for EU leader Donald Tusk said the deal was "not open for renegotiation" while French President Emmanuel Macron said it was the "best agreement possible". MPs also voted in favour of a non-binding measure that "rejects the United Kingdom leaving the European Union without a Withdrawal Agreement". But they failed to vote through a more important plan — backed by European supporters — that would have tried to force through a Brexit delay if no new deal with the EU emerged by February 26. May now faces a formidable challenge convincing Brussels to re-open talks that took 18 excruciating months to conclude. She said parliament's approval of the backstop amendment gave her the "mandate" to "seek to obtain legally binding changes to the withdrawal agreement". But she conceded that there was "limited appetite" in the EU for renegotiation. "It won't be easy," said May. "But in contrast to a fortnight ago, this house has made it clear what it needs to approve the withdrawal agreement." 'Alternative arrangement' Parliament on January 15 voted against the draft deal by a crushing margin. That significantly raised the risk that Britain's departure without a plan on March 29 will create trade and economic disruptions on both sides of the Channel. Brexit hardliners from May's Conservative party think the backstop -- created to keep the border open with Ireland -- could see Britain indefinitely tied to EU trade rules. The winning amendment calls for the backstop to be replaced with "alternative arrangements to avoid a hard border" -- vague wording that did not pin May to any specific approach. - Playing for time? - Yet analysts struggled to see how May could convince her EU counterparts to agree to any changes. "The only strategy I can see behind all this is the prime minister uses this to finally prove to all but her most recalcitrant backbenchers that the backstop cannot be renegotiated," King's College London professor Anand Menon said. "She is going to have to come back definitely and say this deal isn't on offer," Menon said. University College London professor Morten Ravn agreed that May appeared to be playing for time. "May won support for an amendment that she probably expects she cannot deliver on in the hope that parliament will support her deal last minute in order to avoid no-deal Brexit," Ravn told AFP. May promised to give MPs a chance to vote on what happens next on February 14 should she fail to win a new agreement over the course of the next two weeks. 'Nothing changes' May already tried and failed to wrest new concessions from Brussels during a difficult summit last month that exposed her weak negotiating position -- and the European Union's resolve. EU Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier's deputy Sabine Weyand on Monday remarked that the current political debate in Britain felt "like Groundhog Day". She said Britain risked crashing out of the EU without a deal "by accident" because London cannot decide what it wants. Following Tuesday's votes, Irish foreign minister Simon Coveney said the he hoped the backstop would "never be used" or replaced quickly by a new trade agreement. "But it is necessary and tonight's developments at Westminster do nothing to change this," Coveney tweeted.

UK MPs vote to renegotiate Brexit, EU says it's not happening

British Prime Minister Theresa May unveils her <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pms-office-says-reports-of-parliament-seizing-control-from-govt-over-brexit-extremely-concerning-191516">Brexit "Plan B"</a> to parliament on Monday after MPs shredded her EU divorce deal, deepening the political gridlock 10 weeks from departure day.

Britain will leave the European Union on March 29 without a deal unless MPs can force a delay or get their act together in time and come up with an alternative plan that Brussels is also happy with.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/worlds-largest-economies-india-likely-to-surpass-uk-this-year-says-pwc-191559">The world's fifth-biggest economy</a> could lose preferential access to its largest export market overnight, affecting every sector, leading to rising costs and disruption at British ports.

London and Brussels have spent the best part of two years working on a divorce agreement but MPs in parliament's lower House of Commons comprehensively rejected it on Tuesday.

May's government then survived a confidence vote on Wednesday and set about talks with figures from rival parties.

But the main opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn stayed away, saying a "no-deal" departure must be ruled out first -- something May says is impossible.

May spoke to Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte and German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Thursday, and to EU leaders Jean-Claude Juncker and Donald Tusk by telephone Friday to discuss where to go next on Brexit.

EU chiefs have so far ruled out renegotiating the agreement, but have signalled they could postpone the withdrawal if May changes her "red lines" on leaving the EU's customs union and blocking the free movement of citizens.

Amendments 
After May sets out her plans for the way ahead, lawmakers are set to table a series of amendments, to be voted upon on January 29.

At least two cross-party groups of MPs are planning to table amendments to enable backbenchers to delay or frustrate May's proposals.

One would suspend the withdrawal process if there is no new deal with Brussels by the end of February.

A second would enable backbenchers to choose to debate and vote on Brexit issues, one day a week -- breaking the convention that the government controls the parliamentary timetable.

May's Downing Street office has called them "extremely concerning".

"You've got a Leave population and a Remain parliament," said International Trade Secretary Liam Fox, one of the senior Brexiteers in May's cabinet.

"Parliament has not got the right to hijack the Brexit process... and in fact steal the result from the people," he told BBC television.

Britain voted by a 52-48 margin in favour of leaving the EU in a referendum in 2016 that exposed deep divisions in British society.

Irish backstop 
One of the most problematic areas of the divorce deal is the so-called backstop on the Irish border -- a legal guarantee that the frontier would remain free-flowing if Britain and the EU cannot agree a long-term free trade pact.&nbsp;

Britain could not unilaterally pull out of the backstop.

The Sunday Times newspaper claimed that May would propose a separate arrangement with Dublin.

"She wants to offer a bilateral treaty to Ireland that would remove the hated 'backstop' from the EU withdrawal treaty and prevent a hard border by other means," the weekly broadsheet said.

Aides believe that would help win over Conservative eurosceptics on her backbenches, and the party's Democratic Unionist Party allies -- counted upon for a majority. The DUP are Northern Ireland's biggest party.

Graham Brady, who chairs the Conservative backbenchers' group, said he thought May could get her Brexit deal past Conservative rebels if the Irish backstop "can be sorted out".

"So much of the vote against was from people who simply cannot support a potentially permanent backstop, if that can be sorted out then I think we might get that withdrawal agreement through," he told BBC radio.

He said it was in Ireland's interests to help Britain leave the EU with a deal, saying they would be far more hurt by a no-deal Brexit that Britain as most of their trade comes through the UK.

Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney said Sunday that he and Prime Minister Leo Varadkar were in no mood to support alterations to the withdrawal agreement (WA) or the backstop.

"We remain united and focused on protecting Ireland," he said.

"That includes continued support for the EU/UK agreed WA in full, including the backstop as negotiated."

British Prime Minister Theresa May unveils her Brexit "Plan B" to parliament on Monday after MPs shredded her EU divorce deal, deepening the political gridlock 10 weeks from departure day.

British Prime Minister Theresa May unveils her Brexit "Plan B" to parliament on Monday after MPs shredded her EU divorce deal, deepening the political gridlock 10 weeks from departure day. Britain will leave the European Union on March 29 without a deal unless MPs can force a delay or get their act together in time and come up with an alternative plan that Brussels is also happy with. The world's fifth-biggest economy could lose preferential access to its largest export market overnight, affecting every sector, leading to rising costs and disruption at British ports. London and Brussels have spent the best part of two years working on a divorce agreement but MPs in parliament's lower House of Commons comprehensively rejected it on Tuesday. May's government then survived a confidence vote on Wednesday and set about talks with figures from rival parties. But the main opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn stayed away, saying a "no-deal" departure must be ruled out first -- something May says is impossible. May spoke to Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte and German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Thursday, and to EU leaders Jean-Claude Juncker and Donald Tusk by telephone Friday to discuss where to go next on Brexit. EU chiefs have so far ruled out renegotiating the agreement, but have signalled they could postpone the withdrawal if May changes her "red lines" on leaving the EU's customs union and blocking the free movement of citizens. Amendments After May sets out her plans for the way ahead, lawmakers are set to table a series of amendments, to be voted upon on January 29. At least two cross-party groups of MPs are planning to table amendments to enable backbenchers to delay or frustrate May's proposals. One would suspend the withdrawal process if there is no new deal with Brussels by the end of February. A second would enable backbenchers to choose to debate and vote on Brexit issues, one day a week -- breaking the convention that the government controls the parliamentary timetable. May's Downing Street office has called them "extremely concerning". "You've got a Leave population and a Remain parliament," said International Trade Secretary Liam Fox, one of the senior Brexiteers in May's cabinet. "Parliament has not got the right to hijack the Brexit process... and in fact steal the result from the people," he told BBC television. Britain voted by a 52-48 margin in favour of leaving the EU in a referendum in 2016 that exposed deep divisions in British society. Irish backstop One of the most problematic areas of the divorce deal is the so-called backstop on the Irish border -- a legal guarantee that the frontier would remain free-flowing if Britain and the EU cannot agree a long-term free trade pact. Britain could not unilaterally pull out of the backstop. The Sunday Times newspaper claimed that May would propose a separate arrangement with Dublin. "She wants to offer a bilateral treaty to Ireland that would remove the hated 'backstop' from the EU withdrawal treaty and prevent a hard border by other means," the weekly broadsheet said. Aides believe that would help win over Conservative eurosceptics on her backbenches, and the party's Democratic Unionist Party allies -- counted upon for a majority. The DUP are Northern Ireland's biggest party. Graham Brady, who chairs the Conservative backbenchers' group, said he thought May could get her Brexit deal past Conservative rebels if the Irish backstop "can be sorted out". "So much of the vote against was from people who simply cannot support a potentially permanent backstop, if that can be sorted out then I think we might get that withdrawal agreement through," he told BBC radio. He said it was in Ireland's interests to help Britain leave the EU with a deal, saying they would be far more hurt by a no-deal Brexit that Britain as most of their trade comes through the UK. Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney said Sunday that he and Prime Minister Leo Varadkar were in no mood to support alterations to the withdrawal agreement (WA) or the backstop. "We remain united and focused on protecting Ireland," he said. "That includes continued support for the EU/UK agreed WA in full, including the backstop as negotiated."

Brexit: UK PM May to unveil 'Plan B' today

Poles gathered on Saturday in the Baltic port city of Gdansk to bid an emotional farewell to murdered liberal mayor Pawel Adamowicz, whose public stabbing has raised questions about hate speech in politics in the country.

Around 3,500 people, including President Andrzej Duda and EU Council President Donald Tusk, a longtime friend of Adamowicz, attended the ceremony at St Mary's Church, one of the largest brick churches in the world, where his casket will be permanently located.

Polish Nobel Peace laureate Lech Walesa also attended the ceremony, being held on what Duda has declared a day of national mourning.&nbsp;

Adamowicz, 53, was stabbed in the heart in front of hundreds of people at a charity fundraiser last weekend by an ex-convict wielding a knife.

"It's a sad day for the people of Gdansk. We feel we have lost a father," said Tomasz Ceglinski.

"I am 24 years old and he was in power for all of my life," he said. "Every year, we saw changes in the city: investments, new roads, shopping centres and cultural institutions all thanks to him. It's my duty to be here," he told AFP.

The mayor's 27-year-old attacker, who reportedly has a history of mental illness, had previously been sentenced to more than five years in jail for armed robbery.

Recently released, the man claimed he was wrongly imprisoned by the previous government -- led by the centrist Civic Platform (PO) party, to which Adamowicz once belonged.

For many Poles, the mayor's murder was fuelled by online hate speech and toxic divisions between the main political parties.

"It's hatred that killed Pawel," PO leader Grzegorz Schetyna told lawmakers on Wednesday.&nbsp;

"A well-organised, crazy hatred directed at a man who with the help of thousands of Gdansk residents was building this great, proud and free city," he added.

Politicians from PO and the ruling conservative Law and Justice (PiS) party have traded barbs for years, as have their supporters online, with critics accusing the government of tacitly condoning the atmosphere of hostility.&nbsp;

Numerous media outlets have compared Adamowicz's murder to the 1922 assassination of president Gabriel Narutowicz by a fanatical nationalist at a time of rampant hatred.&nbsp;

Since Adamowicz's death, police have detained several individuals for uttering or writing threats against other politicians.

Political violence

Scores of mayors from across Poland and abroad attended the funeral. Giant screens around the church allowed city residents to watch the funeral.&nbsp;

Tens of thousands of people have already queued for hours to see the late mayor's casket, covered in white flowers and the city's red flag, and to sign a book of condolence at the city's European Solidarity Centre.

Gdansk, a city of around half a million people, was the cradle of Poland's anti-communist Solidarity movement in the 1980s.

Adamowicz, mayor of Gdansk for two decades, was backed by the PO party in 2018 municipal polls and won re-election with 64 per cent of the vote.

The capital Warsaw has named Adamowicz an honorary citizen.

The attack on Adamowicz is unusual as political violence is rare in Poland.

The last attack on a political figure was in 2010 when a man fatally shot an aide at a regional PiS office before stabbing another employee, who survived.

Poles gathered on Saturday in the Baltic port city of Gdansk to bid an emotional farewell to murdered liberal mayor Pawel Adamowicz, whose public stabbing has raised questions about hate speech in politics in the country.

Poles gathered on Saturday in the Baltic port city of Gdansk to bid an emotional farewell to murdered liberal mayor Pawel Adamowicz, whose public stabbing has raised questions about hate speech in politics in the country. Around 3,500 people, including President Andrzej Duda and EU Council President Donald Tusk, a longtime friend of Adamowicz, attended the ceremony at St Mary's Church, one of the largest brick churches in the world, where his casket will be permanently located. Polish Nobel Peace laureate Lech Walesa also attended the ceremony, being held on what Duda has declared a day of national mourning. Adamowicz, 53, was stabbed in the heart in front of hundreds of people at a charity fundraiser last weekend by an ex-convict wielding a knife. "It's a sad day for the people of Gdansk. We feel we have lost a father," said Tomasz Ceglinski. "I am 24 years old and he was in power for all of my life," he said. "Every year, we saw changes in the city: investments, new roads, shopping centres and cultural institutions all thanks to him. It's my duty to be here," he told AFP. The mayor's 27-year-old attacker, who reportedly has a history of mental illness, had previously been sentenced to more than five years in jail for armed robbery. Recently released, the man claimed he was wrongly imprisoned by the previous government -- led by the centrist Civic Platform (PO) party, to which Adamowicz once belonged. For many Poles, the mayor's murder was fuelled by online hate speech and toxic divisions between the main political parties. "It's hatred that killed Pawel," PO leader Grzegorz Schetyna told lawmakers on Wednesday. "A well-organised, crazy hatred directed at a man who with the help of thousands of Gdansk residents was building this great, proud and free city," he added. Politicians from PO and the ruling conservative Law and Justice (PiS) party have traded barbs for years, as have their supporters online, with critics accusing the government of tacitly condoning the atmosphere of hostility. Numerous media outlets have compared Adamowicz's murder to the 1922 assassination of president Gabriel Narutowicz by a fanatical nationalist at a time of rampant hatred. Since Adamowicz's death, police have detained several individuals for uttering or writing threats against other politicians. Political violence Scores of mayors from across Poland and abroad attended the funeral. Giant screens around the church allowed city residents to watch the funeral. Tens of thousands of people have already queued for hours to see the late mayor's casket, covered in white flowers and the city's red flag, and to sign a book of condolence at the city's European Solidarity Centre. Gdansk, a city of around half a million people, was the cradle of Poland's anti-communist Solidarity movement in the 1980s. Adamowicz, mayor of Gdansk for two decades, was backed by the PO party in 2018 municipal polls and won re-election with 64 per cent of the vote. The capital Warsaw has named Adamowicz an honorary citizen. The attack on Adamowicz is unusual as political violence is rare in Poland. The last attack on a political figure was in 2010 when a man fatally shot an aide at a regional PiS office before stabbing another employee, who survived.

In tears and shock, Poland bids farewell to murdered mayor

Labour opposition party <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uk-parliament-votes-down-pm-mays-eu-brexit-deal-by-230-votes-190586">Jeremy Corbyn has submitted a motion</a> of asserting that the Conservative government led by PM Theresa&nbsp;May has suffered a "catastrophic&nbsp;defeat"&nbsp;who will now face a vote of "no confidence". The vote is due to take place today.

On Tuesday, British Parliament had voted against <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/how-europe-reacted-to-brexit-deal-defeat-190587">Theresa May's government on the</a> Brexit deal with a &nbsp;432 to 202 margin after heated debates over weeks.

Amid the political row, European Union leader Donald Tusk urged British leaders to rethink their Brexit strategy after parliament rejected the planned withdrawal agreement.

"If a deal is impossible, and no one wants no deal, then who will finally have the courage to say what the only positive solution is?" Tusk tweeted.

Tusk said European Union member states will remain united in their stance on Brexit, Tusk's spokesman said.

"We regret the outcome of the vote and urge the UK government to clarify its intentions with respect to its next steps as soon as possible," the spokesman said, adding, "the EU27 will remain united... and will seek to reduce the damage caused by Brexit."

The Irish government waded into the Brexit debacle informing that it would intensify preparations for a no-deal Brexit after British MPs overwhelming voted to reject the deal.

"Regrettably, the outcome of tonight's vote increases the risk of a disorderly Brexit. Consequently, the government will continue to intensify preparations for such an outcome," Dublin said in a statement.

Reacting to the development, German vice-chancellor Olaf Scholz said the defeat of British Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit deal in Parliament was a "bitter day for Europe".

"This is a bitter day for Europe. We are well prepared -- but a hard Brexit would be the least attractive choice, for the EU and GB (Great Britain)," Scholz said.

The European Union has set March 29th as the date for Britain to exit the EU with some British lawmakers fearing a "no deal" Brexit would hit the nation's economy and lead to recession and consquent flight of jobs.&nbsp;

Labour opposition party Jeremy Corbyn has submitted a motion of asserting that the Conservative government led by PM Theresa May has suffered a "catastrophic defeat" who will now face a vote of "no confidence".

Labour opposition party Jeremy Corbyn has submitted a motion of asserting that the Conservative government led by PM Theresa May has suffered a "catastrophic defeat" who will now face a vote of "no confidence". The vote is due to take place today. On Tuesday, British Parliament had voted against Theresa May's government on the Brexit deal with a 432 to 202 margin after heated debates over weeks. Amid the political row, European Union leader Donald Tusk urged British leaders to rethink their Brexit strategy after parliament rejected the planned withdrawal agreement. "If a deal is impossible, and no one wants no deal, then who will finally have the courage to say what the only positive solution is?" Tusk tweeted. Tusk said European Union member states will remain united in their stance on Brexit, Tusk's spokesman said. "We regret the outcome of the vote and urge the UK government to clarify its intentions with respect to its next steps as soon as possible," the spokesman said, adding, "the EU27 will remain united... and will seek to reduce the damage caused by Brexit." The Irish government waded into the Brexit debacle informing that it would intensify preparations for a no-deal Brexit after British MPs overwhelming voted to reject the deal. "Regrettably, the outcome of tonight's vote increases the risk of a disorderly Brexit. Consequently, the government will continue to intensify preparations for such an outcome," Dublin said in a statement. Reacting to the development, German vice-chancellor Olaf Scholz said the defeat of British Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit deal in Parliament was a "bitter day for Europe". "This is a bitter day for Europe. We are well prepared -- but a hard Brexit would be the least attractive choice, for the EU and GB (Great Britain)," Scholz said. The European Union has set March 29th as the date for Britain to exit the EU with some British lawmakers fearing a "no deal" Brexit would hit the nation's economy and lead to recession and consquent flight of jobs.

After Brexit defeat in Parliament, PM Theresa May's government to face no confidence vote today

Prime Minister Theresa May on Monday published further assurances from the EU on the eve of a crucial parliamentary vote on her Brexit deal and warned MPs that rejecting it would lead to "paralysis" that could see Britain stay in the bloc.

European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker and European Council President Donald Tusk repeated in a letter that they would not reopen the divorce deal, but said they could offer clarifications with "legal value" on a controversial clause on Ireland.

In a speech shortly afterwards in Stoke, a Brexit-backing city in central England, May admitted their offer fell short of what she wanted.

But she said, "I'm convinced that MPs now have the clearest assurances that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-supporting-mps-say-they-will-try-again-to-unseat-pm-theresa-may-178430">this is the best deal possible</a> and is worthy of their support."

May had promised clarifications on the so-called Irish backstop arrangement when she postponed a vote on the agreement in December, facing certain defeat in the House of Commons.

But as MPs prepare to finally cast their judgement on Tuesday evening, large numbers of her own Conservative MPs and her Northern Irish allies are still strongly opposed.

Anti-Brexit MPs have now stepped up efforts to tie the government's hands in parliament in a bid to avoid the damaging prospect of Britain leaving the EU on March 29 with no deal at all.

May repeated that the only way to avoid "no deal" was to support her agreement, saying that "if no deal is as bad as you believe it is, it will be the height of recklessness to do anything else".

But with growing calls to delay Brexit or call a second referendum to resolve the issue, she said: "It's now my judgment that a more likely outcome is a paralysis in parliament that risks there being no Brexit."

Assurances with 'legal value'

May signed the divorce deal with other EU leaders in November after 18 months of tough negotiations, but it has faced huge opposition in Britain.

The most contentious element is the backstop, which would keep Britain tied to some EU trade rules, with even closer alignment for the province of Northern Ireland, if and until another way was found to avoid border checks with Ireland.

Tusk and Juncker said the EU "does not wish to see the backstop enter into force" and noted that if it was necessary, it would only be temporary.

They promised to work quickly to find alternatives to keep open the border, including using technology, a solution backed by Brexit supporters.

The pair repeated that similar assurances to this nature made at an EU summit in December "have legal value".

May conceded however that the EU had rejected her request for a time limit to the backstop should it come into effect.&nbsp;

Nigel Dodds of Northern Ireland's Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), which props up May's government in parliament, was dismissive.

The EU leaders admitted they had no mandate to reopen the Brexit deal, he told the BBC, and so "obviously can't do what is necessary for the House of Commons".

Delaying Brexit?

The opposition Labour party, which favours remaining in a permanent customs union with the EU, has suggested it will seek a no-confidence vote in the government if MPs reject May's plan.

If the government loses, parties would have 14 days to find an alternative that had the support of a majority of MPs, or an election would be called.

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn has conceded that, if the party won power, parliament would likely need to delay Brexit so it could renegotiate the withdrawal agreement.

Speculation is growing in Brussels and London that May could also seek an extension to the Article 50 exit process if she loses the vote on Tuesday.

She has denied this repeatedly, but asked about this in Stoke, gave what some viewed as an equivocal answer, saying: "I don't believe we should be extending Article 50."

May repeated her opposition to a second referendum, which a growing minority of MPs support as the only way out of the parliamentary deadlock on Brexit.

There is also talk of MPs taking control of the situation by altering the rules of parliament.

Conservative MP Nick Boles, who wants to keep Britain attached to the EU's single market like Norway, proposes that senior MPs be allowed to frame a "compromise" Brexit deal.

Prime Minister Theresa May on Monday published further assurances from the EU on the eve of a crucial parliamentary vote on her Brexit deal and warned MPs that rejecting it would lead to "paralysis" that could see Britain stay in the bloc.

Prime Minister Theresa May on Monday published further assurances from the EU on the eve of a crucial parliamentary vote on her Brexit deal and warned MPs that rejecting it would lead to "paralysis" that could see Britain stay in the bloc. European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker and European Council President Donald Tusk repeated in a letter that they would not reopen the divorce deal, but said they could offer clarifications with "legal value" on a controversial clause on Ireland. In a speech shortly afterwards in Stoke, a Brexit-backing city in central England, May admitted their offer fell short of what she wanted. But she said, "I'm convinced that MPs now have the clearest assurances that this is the best deal possible and is worthy of their support." May had promised clarifications on the so-called Irish backstop arrangement when she postponed a vote on the agreement in December, facing certain defeat in the House of Commons. But as MPs prepare to finally cast their judgement on Tuesday evening, large numbers of her own Conservative MPs and her Northern Irish allies are still strongly opposed. Anti-Brexit MPs have now stepped up efforts to tie the government's hands in parliament in a bid to avoid the damaging prospect of Britain leaving the EU on March 29 with no deal at all. May repeated that the only way to avoid "no deal" was to support her agreement, saying that "if no deal is as bad as you believe it is, it will be the height of recklessness to do anything else". But with growing calls to delay Brexit or call a second referendum to resolve the issue, she said: "It's now my judgment that a more likely outcome is a paralysis in parliament that risks there being no Brexit." Assurances with 'legal value' May signed the divorce deal with other EU leaders in November after 18 months of tough negotiations, but it has faced huge opposition in Britain. The most contentious element is the backstop, which would keep Britain tied to some EU trade rules, with even closer alignment for the province of Northern Ireland, if and until another way was found to avoid border checks with Ireland. Tusk and Juncker said the EU "does not wish to see the backstop enter into force" and noted that if it was necessary, it would only be temporary. They promised to work quickly to find alternatives to keep open the border, including using technology, a solution backed by Brexit supporters. The pair repeated that similar assurances to this nature made at an EU summit in December "have legal value". May conceded however that the EU had rejected her request for a time limit to the backstop should it come into effect. Nigel Dodds of Northern Ireland's Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), which props up May's government in parliament, was dismissive. The EU leaders admitted they had no mandate to reopen the Brexit deal, he told the BBC, and so "obviously can't do what is necessary for the House of Commons". Delaying Brexit? The opposition Labour party, which favours remaining in a permanent customs union with the EU, has suggested it will seek a no-confidence vote in the government if MPs reject May's plan. If the government loses, parties would have 14 days to find an alternative that had the support of a majority of MPs, or an election would be called. Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn has conceded that, if the party won power, parliament would likely need to delay Brexit so it could renegotiate the withdrawal agreement. Speculation is growing in Brussels and London that May could also seek an extension to the Article 50 exit process if she loses the vote on Tuesday. She has denied this repeatedly, but asked about this in Stoke, gave what some viewed as an equivocal answer, saying: "I don't believe we should be extending Article 50." May repeated her opposition to a second referendum, which a growing minority of MPs support as the only way out of the parliamentary deadlock on Brexit. There is also talk of MPs taking control of the situation by altering the rules of parliament. Conservative MP Nick Boles, who wants to keep Britain attached to the EU's single market like Norway, proposes that senior MPs be allowed to frame a "compromise" Brexit deal.

'This is the best deal possible,' May says on Brexit deal; EU says it will not better it

The EU has announced an urgent investigation after suspected Chinese military <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-intelligence-behind-marriott-data-hack-us-183707">hackers</a> accessed thousands of sensitive diplomatic cables.

Area 1 Security, a US cybersecurity firm, said a unit of China's People's Liberation Army, acting on government orders, breached a secure communications network used by the EU to coordinate foreign policy.

The New York Times published some of the cables, which are from European Union diplomatic missions around the world and reveal anxiety about how to handle US President Donald Trump as well as concerns about the behaviour of China, Russia and Iran.

The breach recalls the publication by WikiLeaks of a vast haul of US State Department cables in 2010, though in the EU case the trove is much smaller and consists of less secret communications.

Area 1, which was able to see the documents, said the attack targeted the EU, the United Nations and the AFL-CIO labour union in the US.

EU officials said Wednesday they have begun a probe into the leak, which comes with Europe on high alert for malign online activity in the run-up to key parliamentary elections in May next year.

"The Council Secretariat is aware of allegations regarding a potential leak of sensitive information and is actively investigating the issue," the EU Council, which represents member states, said.

"The Council Secretariat does not comment on allegations nor on matters relating to operational security. The Council Secretariat takes the security of its facilities, including its IT systems, extremely seriously."

European Commission Vice-President Valdis Dombrovskis said the bloc took any report of hacking its systems "extremely seriously" but refused to comment on the detail of the leak.

"What is clear is that no institution or country is immune to these kinds of hacks all communications systems have vulnerabilities," he told reporters. 
"We're constantly dealing with this challenge, upgrading our communication systems to respond to the threats."

Entry via Cyprus

Area 1 said the hackers gained access to the diplomatic communications network after a simple "phishing" campaign targeting the foreign ministry in Cyprus with mails designed to trick them into downloading hacking tools. Diplomatic sources said Cyprus has begun its own investigation and asked other EU countries for technical help.

Once inside the EU system, the hackers extracted thousands of diplomatic cables, most of which have a low-security classification according to the New York Times, which was given 1,100 by Area 1 and published a selection.

Many of the cables are run-of-the-mill weekly reports from missions around the world, detailing conversations with leaders and officials, the NYT said.

But there is also analysis of trends in global politics and trade, particularly on China's changing role under President Xi Jinping and relations with Russia and the US, and tantalising glimpses into closed-door meetings.

In one cable, the EU's diplomatic mission in Moscow describes the controversial summit in Helsinki in July between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin as "successful (at least for Putin)".

Another gives a detailed account of a meeting with President Xi in which he rails against Trump's trade tactics, saying the US was "behaving as if it was fighting in a no-rules freestyle boxing match" and vowing not to give in to "bullying".

In a somewhat ironic turn, the account describes Chinese Premier Li Keqiang assuring <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/eus-tusk-said-no-more-brexit-negotiations-184119">EU President Donald Tusk</a> of Beijing's "steadfast opposition to cyber-attacks and hacking".

The EU has announced an urgent investigation after suspected Chinese military hackers accessed thousands of sensitive diplomatic cables. Area 1 Security, a US cybersecurity firm, said a unit of China's People's Liberation Army, acting on government orders, breached a secure communications network used by the EU to coordinate foreign policy.

The EU has announced an urgent investigation after suspected Chinese military hackers accessed thousands of sensitive diplomatic cables. Area 1 Security, a US cybersecurity firm, said a unit of China's People's Liberation Army, acting on government orders, breached a secure communications network used by the EU to coordinate foreign policy. The New York Times published some of the cables, which are from European Union diplomatic missions around the world and reveal anxiety about how to handle US President Donald Trump as well as concerns about the behaviour of China, Russia and Iran. The breach recalls the publication by WikiLeaks of a vast haul of US State Department cables in 2010, though in the EU case the trove is much smaller and consists of less secret communications. Area 1, which was able to see the documents, said the attack targeted the EU, the United Nations and the AFL-CIO labour union in the US. EU officials said Wednesday they have begun a probe into the leak, which comes with Europe on high alert for malign online activity in the run-up to key parliamentary elections in May next year. "The Council Secretariat is aware of allegations regarding a potential leak of sensitive information and is actively investigating the issue," the EU Council, which represents member states, said. "The Council Secretariat does not comment on allegations nor on matters relating to operational security. The Council Secretariat takes the security of its facilities, including its IT systems, extremely seriously." European Commission Vice-President Valdis Dombrovskis said the bloc took any report of hacking its systems "extremely seriously" but refused to comment on the detail of the leak. "What is clear is that no institution or country is immune to these kinds of hacks all communications systems have vulnerabilities," he told reporters. "We're constantly dealing with this challenge, upgrading our communication systems to respond to the threats." Entry via Cyprus Area 1 said the hackers gained access to the diplomatic communications network after a simple "phishing" campaign targeting the foreign ministry in Cyprus with mails designed to trick them into downloading hacking tools. Diplomatic sources said Cyprus has begun its own investigation and asked other EU countries for technical help. Once inside the EU system, the hackers extracted thousands of diplomatic cables, most of which have a low-security classification according to the New York Times, which was given 1,100 by Area 1 and published a selection. Many of the cables are run-of-the-mill weekly reports from missions around the world, detailing conversations with leaders and officials, the NYT said. But there is also analysis of trends in global politics and trade, particularly on China's changing role under President Xi Jinping and relations with Russia and the US, and tantalising glimpses into closed-door meetings. In one cable, the EU's diplomatic mission in Moscow describes the controversial summit in Helsinki in July between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin as "successful (at least for Putin)". Another gives a detailed account of a meeting with President Xi in which he rails against Trump's trade tactics, saying the US was "behaving as if it was fighting in a no-rules freestyle boxing match" and vowing not to give in to "bullying". In a somewhat ironic turn, the account describes Chinese Premier Li Keqiang assuring EU President Donald Tusk of Beijing's "steadfast opposition to cyber-attacks and hacking".

EU orders probe into hacking of diplomatic cables; suspects China

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

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

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

EU's Tusk said no more Brexit negotiations

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