The EU's top leaders Friday fired a Brexit warning to whoever wins the battle to become the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-race-boris-johnson-jeremy-hunt-to-contest-conservative-leadership-michael-gove-eliminated-in-final-ballot-229043">next British prime minister</a>, saying the existing divorce deal could not be changed.

Hot favourite Boris Johnson will face foreign minister Jeremy Hunt in a run-off vote to decide who takes on the tricky task of piloting the country's departure from the EU.

Both say they want to renegotiate the deal that outgoing PM Theresa May struck with Brussels after two years of painful negotiation, a deal which British lawmakers have rejected three times.

European Council President Donald Tusk said the bloc would remain "very precise and also patient" despite the high political drama unfolding in Westminster.

"Maybe the process of Brexit will be even more exciting than before because of some personal decisions in London but nothing has changed when it comes to our position," Tusk told reporters after a summit of EU leaders in Brussels.

The former Polish premier said that all remaining 27 EU leaders were adamant there could be no changes to the near 600-page legal accord struck in November last year.

"We look forward to working together with the next UK prime minister," Tusk said.

"We are open for talks when it comes to the declaration on the future UK-EU relations if the position of the UK were to evolve, but the withdrawal agreement is not open for renegotiation."

Jean-Claude Juncker, the head of the European Commission, which led Brexit talks for the EU side, said there was nothing to add because leaders "repeated unanimously there will be no renegotiation of the withdrawal agreement".

Brexit has been delayed twice already and both Hunt and Johnson say Britain should leave the bloc on the current deadline date of October 31 -- even if it means walking away with no deal.

But Hunt has suggested he might delay Brexit briefly if a deal with Brussels was close, and Johnson has refused to absolutely guarantee leaving on October 31.

Patience across the Channel is wearing thin, with Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar warning at the Brussels summit on Thursday of "enormous hostility" in the EU to granting Britain yet another delay.

The EU's top leaders Friday fired a Brexit warning to whoever wins the battle to become the next British prime minister, saying the existing divorce deal could not be changed.

The EU's top leaders Friday fired a Brexit warning to whoever wins the battle to become the next British prime minister, saying the existing divorce deal could not be changed. Hot favourite Boris Johnson will face foreign minister Jeremy Hunt in a run-off vote to decide who takes on the tricky task of piloting the country's departure from the EU. Both say they want to renegotiate the deal that outgoing PM Theresa May struck with Brussels after two years of painful negotiation, a deal which British lawmakers have rejected three times. European Council President Donald Tusk said the bloc would remain "very precise and also patient" despite the high political drama unfolding in Westminster. "Maybe the process of Brexit will be even more exciting than before because of some personal decisions in London but nothing has changed when it comes to our position," Tusk told reporters after a summit of EU leaders in Brussels. The former Polish premier said that all remaining 27 EU leaders were adamant there could be no changes to the near 600-page legal accord struck in November last year. "We look forward to working together with the next UK prime minister," Tusk said. "We are open for talks when it comes to the declaration on the future UK-EU relations if the position of the UK were to evolve, but the withdrawal agreement is not open for renegotiation." Jean-Claude Juncker, the head of the European Commission, which led Brexit talks for the EU side, said there was nothing to add because leaders "repeated unanimously there will be no renegotiation of the withdrawal agreement". Brexit has been delayed twice already and both Hunt and Johnson say Britain should leave the bloc on the current deadline date of October 31 -- even if it means walking away with no deal. But Hunt has suggested he might delay Brexit briefly if a deal with Brussels was close, and Johnson has refused to absolutely guarantee leaving on October 31. Patience across the Channel is wearing thin, with Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar warning at the Brussels summit on Thursday of "enormous hostility" in the EU to granting Britain yet another delay.

Brexit withdrawal agreement not open for renegotiation: EU

Germany and Britain on Monday warned Tehran not to breach <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-exceed-enriched-uranium-limit-in-10-days-iran-227944">uranium stockpile limits set by the 2015</a> nuclear deal, as the EU's diplomatic chief dismissed Iranian threats as "political dialectics".

Iran set a 10-day countdown on Monday to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-weighing-full-range-of-options-to-counter-iran-including-a-military-strike-mike-pompeo-on-iran-227800">exceed the 300-kilogram limit set </a>on its enriched uranium stocks, dealing another blow to the crumbling nuclear accord signed by Tehran and six international powers.

The EU has battled to save the agreement since US President Donald Trump withdrew and reimposed sanctions, but Iran said it would step back from exceeding the 300-kg limit on June 27 only if "other parties live up to their commitments".

The move comes as Iran tries to step up pressure on the deal's other signatories -- Germany, France, Britain, China and Russia -- to help it sidestep US sanctions and in particular enable it to sell oil.

German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas rejected the Iranian ultimatum and insisted Tehran must stick to its commitments under the deal.

"We have already said in the past that we will not accept less for less. It is up to Iran to stick to its obligations," Maas said after talks with EU foreign ministers in Luxembourg.

"We will certainly not accept a unilateral reduction of obligations."

A spokesman for the British government echoed the call, saying the E3 -- the European signatories to the deal -- has "consistently made clear that there can be no reduction in compliance".

"For now Iran remains within its nuclear commitments. We are coordinating with E3 partners on next steps," the spokesman added.

The European Union's diplomatic chief Federica Mogherini said the bloc would not act on the basis of Iranian rhetoric but wait for reports by the UN's nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

"Our assessment on the implementation of the nuclear deal has never been, is not and will never be based on statements, but on the evaluation that the IAEA makes, the reports that the IAEA produces and that can be done at any time," Mogherini said after the talks.

"Announcements are relevant elements of political dialectics but our assessment on the implementation of the agreement is based on the factual, technically sound assessment and evaluation that the IAEA makes in its reports."

On May 8, President Hassan Rouhani said Iran would stop observing restrictions on its stocks of enriched uranium and heavy water agreed under the 2015 nuclear deal.

Rouhani said the move was in retaliation for the unilateral US withdrawal from the accord a year earlier, which saw Washington impose tough economic sanctions on Tehran.

Tensions between Tehran and Washington have escalated ever since, with the United States bolstering its military presence in the region and blacklisting Iran's Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist organisation. 
&nbsp;

Germany and Britain on Monday warned Tehran not to breach uranium stockpile limits set by the 2015 nuclear deal, as the EU's diplomatic chief dismissed Iranian threats as "political dialectics".

Germany and Britain on Monday warned Tehran not to breach uranium stockpile limits set by the 2015 nuclear deal, as the EU's diplomatic chief dismissed Iranian threats as "political dialectics". Iran set a 10-day countdown on Monday to exceed the 300-kilogram limit set on its enriched uranium stocks, dealing another blow to the crumbling nuclear accord signed by Tehran and six international powers. The EU has battled to save the agreement since US President Donald Trump withdrew and reimposed sanctions, but Iran said it would step back from exceeding the 300-kg limit on June 27 only if "other parties live up to their commitments". The move comes as Iran tries to step up pressure on the deal's other signatories -- Germany, France, Britain, China and Russia -- to help it sidestep US sanctions and in particular enable it to sell oil. German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas rejected the Iranian ultimatum and insisted Tehran must stick to its commitments under the deal. "We have already said in the past that we will not accept less for less. It is up to Iran to stick to its obligations," Maas said after talks with EU foreign ministers in Luxembourg. "We will certainly not accept a unilateral reduction of obligations." A spokesman for the British government echoed the call, saying the E3 -- the European signatories to the deal -- has "consistently made clear that there can be no reduction in compliance". "For now Iran remains within its nuclear commitments. We are coordinating with E3 partners on next steps," the spokesman added. The European Union's diplomatic chief Federica Mogherini said the bloc would not act on the basis of Iranian rhetoric but wait for reports by the UN's nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). "Our assessment on the implementation of the nuclear deal has never been, is not and will never be based on statements, but on the evaluation that the IAEA makes, the reports that the IAEA produces and that can be done at any time," Mogherini said after the talks. "Announcements are relevant elements of political dialectics but our assessment on the implementation of the agreement is based on the factual, technically sound assessment and evaluation that the IAEA makes in its reports." On May 8, President Hassan Rouhani said Iran would stop observing restrictions on its stocks of enriched uranium and heavy water agreed under the 2015 nuclear deal. Rouhani said the move was in retaliation for the unilateral US withdrawal from the accord a year earlier, which saw Washington impose tough economic sanctions on Tehran. Tensions between Tehran and Washington have escalated ever since, with the United States bolstering its military presence in the region and blacklisting Iran's Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist organisation.

Iran must stick to nuclear commitments, warn Germany, UK over enriched uranium row

Iran will break the uranium stockpile limit set by Tehran's nuclear deal with world powers in the next 10 days, the spokesman for the country's atomic agency said Monday. He also warned that Iran could enrich uranium up to 20% - just a step away from weapons-grade levels.

Iran says it will break key nuclear deal uranium limit in 10 days

French President Emmanuel Macron said on Friday (June 7), that he hoped a final ratification of the Canada-European Union Free Trade Agreement (CETA) can be adopted by French lawmakers in the coming weeks.

Macron wants to ratify EU-Canada trade agreement in coming weeks

UK PM Theresa May to officially resign today. But May will remain in office until another new PM is elected.

UK PM May to officially resign today

Anti-EU populist Nigel Farage's new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/theresa-mays-successor-must-abandon-her-deal-with-european-union-and-leave-on-october-31-pro-brexit-conservatives-224551">Brexit Party failed to win </a>its first seat in Britain's parliament as it lost out to the main opposition Labour Party in a crunch by-election, results on Friday showed.

The poll in the eastern English city of Peterborough was triggered after the sitting MP, Fiona Onasanya, was dumped by voters after being jailed for lying over a speeding offence.

The Brexit Party's candidate Mike Greene, a local entrepreneur, came in second with nearly 29 per cent of the vote, behind Labour's Lisa Forbes.

The ruling Conservatives came third with 21 per cent, while the Liberal Democrats won 12 per cent.&nbsp;

Friday's result is a setback for the Brexit Party -- founded by eurosceptic figurehead Farage only a few months ago -- which came out on top in the European elections in May with 31.6 per cent of votes cast.&nbsp;

It had been seeking to capitalise on that momentum as well as voter disillusionment with the main Conservative and Labour parties, who have historically shared the Peterborough seat.

Prime Minister Theresa May is stepping down after delaying Brexit twice as she tried and failed to get her EU divorce deal through parliament.

Farage, who has called for Britain to leave the bloc without a deal, said last weekend while campaigning he saw the by-election as "the opportunity for the next chapter in this great story".

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn called said that the result "shows that despite the divisions and deadlock over Brexit, when it comes to a vote on the issues that directly affect people's lives, Labour's case for real change has strong support across the country."&nbsp;

The Brexit Party had been heavy favourites to win the Leave-voting seat, but despite losing, their performance will still be a concern to the two main parties.

Labour's vote share fell by 17 per cent from 2017, and was the lowest ever to win a British by-election, while the Conservatives plunged by 25 per cent.&nbsp;

Leading pollster John Curtice told the BBC said the result showed the country was now in a "different political world".

"A lot of constituencies are now looking at four-party politics and perhaps in others five party politics," added Farage. 
&nbsp;

Anti-EU populist Nigel Farage's new Brexit Party failed to win its first seat in Britain's parliament as it lost out to the main opposition Labour Party in a crunch by-election, results on Friday showed.

Anti-EU populist Nigel Farage's new Brexit Party failed to win its first seat in Britain's parliament as it lost out to the main opposition Labour Party in a crunch by-election, results on Friday showed. The poll in the eastern English city of Peterborough was triggered after the sitting MP, Fiona Onasanya, was dumped by voters after being jailed for lying over a speeding offence. The Brexit Party's candidate Mike Greene, a local entrepreneur, came in second with nearly 29 per cent of the vote, behind Labour's Lisa Forbes. The ruling Conservatives came third with 21 per cent, while the Liberal Democrats won 12 per cent. Friday's result is a setback for the Brexit Party -- founded by eurosceptic figurehead Farage only a few months ago -- which came out on top in the European elections in May with 31.6 per cent of votes cast. It had been seeking to capitalise on that momentum as well as voter disillusionment with the main Conservative and Labour parties, who have historically shared the Peterborough seat. Prime Minister Theresa May is stepping down after delaying Brexit twice as she tried and failed to get her EU divorce deal through parliament. Farage, who has called for Britain to leave the bloc without a deal, said last weekend while campaigning he saw the by-election as "the opportunity for the next chapter in this great story". Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn called said that the result "shows that despite the divisions and deadlock over Brexit, when it comes to a vote on the issues that directly affect people's lives, Labour's case for real change has strong support across the country." The Brexit Party had been heavy favourites to win the Leave-voting seat, but despite losing, their performance will still be a concern to the two main parties. Labour's vote share fell by 17 per cent from 2017, and was the lowest ever to win a British by-election, while the Conservatives plunged by 25 per cent. Leading pollster John Curtice told the BBC said the result showed the country was now in a "different political world". "A lot of constituencies are now looking at four-party politics and perhaps in others five party politics," added Farage.

UK: Nigel Farage's new Brexit Party fails to win by-election against Labour

European Union leaders are engaged in a spar over who should become the next chief of the European Commission. Watch this video to know more.

Macron-Merkel spar over top EU post

Alastair Campbell has been expelled from the Labour Party. He defends his decision to vote Liberal Democrat by saying he believes he voted in the best interests of the Labour Party. Watch this video to know more.

UK: Labour party expels Alastair Campbell

This segment of WION brings to you top stories of the morning from across the globe. Watch this video to get updated with the latest information.

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning, May 29th 2019

Britain is facing a fresh political turmoil since Theresa May’s announcement to quit as country’s prime minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/theresa-may-resigns-as-british-prime-minister-heres-where-it-all-went-wrong-221331">in the wake of the failure to get her Brexit deal passed</a>. The European Union (EU), with whom Britain decided to sever ties in a referendum, has refused to accept May’s deal and she now hopes a new prime minister will “take the process forward”.

But the people of Britain are sick of the “Brexit drama”. Britain's two main parties were snubbed in the recent EU elections - the first solid indication of what's playing on the minds of the people since they voted to leave the EU in 2016.

British voters complain of the Brexit deal stuck in a limbo, adding that what is needed is an end to the delay and clarity on the course ahead.&nbsp;

Watch: With May's exit, what happens to Brexit?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/with-mays-exit-what-happens-to-brexit-222154/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Voters have rejected the handling of Brexit so far and have instead shown support to parties that were unequivocally pro-Brexit or pro-EU. In other words, they have voted for clarity. But that's a long way to go, as of now Britain is gearing up for the race to Prime Minister's chair since Theresa May is on her way out.

The contenders, those in the race to replace May have launched their leadership campaigns.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/race-to-replace-theresa-may-leaves-brexit-in-limbo-221489">Who'll replace Theresa May?</a>

- Former foreign secretary Boris Johnson

- Former Brexit secretary Dominic Raab.

- Former Commons leader Andrea Leadsom

- Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt&nbsp;

- Environment Secretary Michael Gove&nbsp;

- International Development Secretary Rory Stewart

- Defence Secretary Penny Mordaunt&nbsp;

- Home Secretary Sajid Javid

- Pensions minister Esther McVey&nbsp;

So far, only Johnson, Stewart and McVey have declared their intention to stand.

"There's a lot of runners and riders in this particular race," Tony Travers, a politics professor at the London School of Economics University, told AFP.

Johnson "would certainly be the party membership's choice but not necessarily members of parliament", he added.

Filling May's shoes

Experts and analysts are of the view that the new leader - while trying to fill in May's shoes - will have to negotiate tough on the UK's exit from the EU, for the Union is unlikely to reopen the terms of the withdrawal agreement.

Then, Britain may also be posed with the situation wherein it leaves the EU with "no deal" in the absence of a formal withdrawal agreement approved by its parliament.&nbsp;

May will step down on June 7 but stay on as the PM until her successor is chosen by July 20.

Britain's EU departure date is currently fixed for October 31, although any new leader could ask for a further delay.

(With inputs from AFP)

Britain is facing a fresh political turmoil since Theresa May’s announcement to quit as country’s prime minister in the wake of the failure to get her Brexit deal passed.

Britain is facing a fresh political turmoil since Theresa May’s announcement to quit as country’s prime minister in the wake of the failure to get her Brexit deal passed. The European Union (EU), with whom Britain decided to sever ties in a referendum, has refused to accept May’s deal and she now hopes a new prime minister will “take the process forward”. But the people of Britain are sick of the “Brexit drama”. Britain's two main parties were snubbed in the recent EU elections - the first solid indication of what's playing on the minds of the people since they voted to leave the EU in 2016. British voters complain of the Brexit deal stuck in a limbo, adding that what is needed is an end to the delay and clarity on the course ahead. Watch: With May's exit, what happens to Brexit? Voters have rejected the handling of Brexit so far and have instead shown support to parties that were unequivocally pro-Brexit or pro-EU. In other words, they have voted for clarity. But that's a long way to go, as of now Britain is gearing up for the race to Prime Minister's chair since Theresa May is on her way out. The contenders, those in the race to replace May have launched their leadership campaigns. Who'll replace Theresa May? - Former foreign secretary Boris Johnson - Former Brexit secretary Dominic Raab. - Former Commons leader Andrea Leadsom - Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt - Environment Secretary Michael Gove - International Development Secretary Rory Stewart - Defence Secretary Penny Mordaunt - Home Secretary Sajid Javid - Pensions minister Esther McVey So far, only Johnson, Stewart and McVey have declared their intention to stand. "There's a lot of runners and riders in this particular race," Tony Travers, a politics professor at the London School of Economics University, told AFP. Johnson "would certainly be the party membership's choice but not necessarily members of parliament", he added. Filling May's shoes Experts and analysts are of the view that the new leader - while trying to fill in May's shoes - will have to negotiate tough on the UK's exit from the EU, for the Union is unlikely to reopen the terms of the withdrawal agreement. Then, Britain may also be posed with the situation wherein it leaves the EU with "no deal" in the absence of a formal withdrawal agreement approved by its parliament. May will step down on June 7 but stay on as the PM until her successor is chosen by July 20. Britain's EU departure date is currently fixed for October 31, although any new leader could ask for a further delay. (With inputs from AFP)

Filling May's boots: What happens to Brexit after British PM resigns

The European People's Party (EPP) is going into Sunday's European elections with a declaration of war on nationalists and populists, as well as appeals for new unity in the EU.

Weber vows to fight populists, calls for EU unity

After warning Iran, President Trump said the US hadn't <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/if-iran-wants-to-fight-that-will-be-official-end-of-it-trump-warns-to-never-threaten-us-again-220000">reached out to Iran</a> for talks. &nbsp;

"Iran will call us if and when they are ever ready. In the meantime, their economy continues to collapse - very sad for the Iranian people!," US President tweeted on Monday.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The Fake News put out a typically false statement, without any knowledge that the United States was trying to set up a negotiation with Iran. This is a false report....
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1130526242531364864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"The Fake News put out a typically false statement, without any knowledge that the United States was trying to set up a negotiation with Iran. This is a false report," Trump wrote in a tweet that did not specify what report he was referring to.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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....Iran will call us if and when they are ever ready. In the meantime, their economy continues to collapse - very sad for the Iranian people!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1130526243751960576?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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On Sunday, Trump had said that if Iran wanted to fight then it would be "official end of Iran". Never threaten the United States again," Trump had said in a tweet as tensions between the two countries continued to simmer.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-threatens-iran-in-tweet-as-tension-between-two-countries-escalate-220208/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The US had sent B-52 bombers and warships to the Gulf as tensions between the two countries reached fever pitch last week. The Trump administration has ordered non-essential diplomatic staff out of Iraq over Iran row.

Meanwhile, Iran's foreign minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-genocidal-taunts-will-not-end-iran-foreign-minister-javad-zarif-hits-back-220126">Mohammad Javad Zarif </a>said that the "genocidal taunts" of US President Donald Trump will not "end Iran". "Iranians have stood tall for millennia while aggressors all gone. Economic terrorism and genocidal taunts won't 'end Iran'," Zarif wrote on Twitter.

Relations between the two countries had hit rock bottom last year when Trump pulled out of the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran and imposed tough sanctions, a move criticised by the European Union which backed Iran.&nbsp;

The United Nations voiced concern about the rising rhetoric between the United States and Iran and called on the two sides to dial down their remarks.

"We would ask all parties to lower the rhetoric and lower the threshold of action as well," said UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric, adding,"we are concerned about the rising rhetoric."

As tensions mounted, on Sunday a rocket was fired into the Green Zone of the Iraqi capital Baghdad, which houses government offices and embassies including the US mission. It was not immediately clear who was behind the attack. 
&nbsp;

After warning Iran, President Trump said the US hadn't reached out to Iran for talks. "Iran will call us if and when they are ever ready. In the meantime, their economy continues to collapse - very sad for the Iranian people!

After warning Iran, President Trump said the US hadn't reached out to Iran for talks. "Iran will call us if and when they are ever ready. In the meantime, their economy continues to collapse - very sad for the Iranian people!," US President tweeted on Monday. The Fake News put out a typically false statement, without any knowledge that the United States was trying to set up a negotiation with Iran. This is a false report.... — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 20, 2019 × "The Fake News put out a typically false statement, without any knowledge that the United States was trying to set up a negotiation with Iran. This is a false report," Trump wrote in a tweet that did not specify what report he was referring to. ....Iran will call us if and when they are ever ready. In the meantime, their economy continues to collapse - very sad for the Iranian people! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 20, 2019 × On Sunday, Trump had said that if Iran wanted to fight then it would be "official end of Iran". Never threaten the United States again," Trump had said in a tweet as tensions between the two countries continued to simmer. The US had sent B-52 bombers and warships to the Gulf as tensions between the two countries reached fever pitch last week. The Trump administration has ordered non-essential diplomatic staff out of Iraq over Iran row. Meanwhile, Iran's foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said that the "genocidal taunts" of US President Donald Trump will not "end Iran". "Iranians have stood tall for millennia while aggressors all gone. Economic terrorism and genocidal taunts won't 'end Iran'," Zarif wrote on Twitter. Relations between the two countries had hit rock bottom last year when Trump pulled out of the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran and imposed tough sanctions, a move criticised by the European Union which backed Iran. The United Nations voiced concern about the rising rhetoric between the United States and Iran and called on the two sides to dial down their remarks. "We would ask all parties to lower the rhetoric and lower the threshold of action as well," said UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric, adding,"we are concerned about the rising rhetoric." As tensions mounted, on Sunday a rocket was fired into the Green Zone of the Iraqi capital Baghdad, which houses government offices and embassies including the US mission. It was not immediately clear who was behind the attack.

US not trying to set up negotiation with Iran: Trump

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-rich-poor-divide-widens-but-still-a-worldwide-low-217922&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjs1dmXg6DiAhVJsY8KHXszAnoQFjABegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0hBsJFYXqKFsAl5kCKNlfx">The EU's</a> powerful anti-trust authority on Thursday fined five major banks -- including Barclays and Citigroup -- more than a billion euros for collusion in the massive foreign exchange currency market.

The European Commission sanctioned Barclays, the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/royal-bank-of-scotland-ceo-ross-mcewan-resigns-after-more-than-five-years-213380&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwit0qrFg6DiAhVEpI8KHVMXAuEQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3G1fLU1ztQFdRbBJj8U0qy">Royal Bank of Scotland</a>, Citigroup, JPMorgan and Japan's MUFG Bank a total of $1.2 billion&nbsp;after finding that traders colluded to fix exchange rates using electronic chat rooms, a statement said.

The commission said Swiss giant UBS received no fine as it revealed the collusion to the authorities.

"These cartel decisions send a clear message that the commission will not tolerate collusive behaviour in any sector of the financial markets," said <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-supports-iran-nuclear-deal-may-talk-to-uss-pompeo-mogherini-218310&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjs1dmXg6DiAhVJsY8KHXszAnoQFjACegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1Igy-Keyh3SfqugD1QW3id">EU </a>Competition Commissioner Margrethe Vestager.

"The behaviour of these banks undermined the integrity of the sector at the expense of the European economy and consumers," she added.

The decision involves two cases of forex manipulation, with the first known as "Essex Express 'n the Jimmy" because all the traders (except Jimmy) lived in the county to the east of London, the commission said.

The other one was called "Three-way banana split", though the EU's executive arm did not explain why.

"Some of the traders created the chat rooms and then invited one another to join, based on their trading activities and personal affinities, creating closed circles of trust," the commission explained.

The collusion took place between 2007 and 2013, roughly the years of the financial crisis and has been sanctioned by other authorities, including the US.

Except Japan's MUFG, the banks cooperated with the commission and in return received lighter fines than the EU's maximum amount.

"We are pleased to resolve this historical matter, which relates to the conduct of one former employee. We have since made significant control improvements," said a spokesperson for JPMorgan.

Several of the banks, including Barclays, had already provisioned for the fines in earlier filings.

The EU's powerful anti-trust authority on Thursday fined five major banks -- including Barclays and Citigroup -- more than a billion euros for collusion in the massive foreign exchange currency market.

The EU's powerful anti-trust authority on Thursday fined five major banks -- including Barclays and Citigroup -- more than a billion euros for collusion in the massive foreign exchange currency market. The European Commission sanctioned Barclays, the Royal Bank of Scotland, Citigroup, JPMorgan and Japan's MUFG Bank a total of $1.2 billion after finding that traders colluded to fix exchange rates using electronic chat rooms, a statement said. The commission said Swiss giant UBS received no fine as it revealed the collusion to the authorities. "These cartel decisions send a clear message that the commission will not tolerate collusive behaviour in any sector of the financial markets," said EU Competition Commissioner Margrethe Vestager. "The behaviour of these banks undermined the integrity of the sector at the expense of the European economy and consumers," she added. The decision involves two cases of forex manipulation, with the first known as "Essex Express 'n the Jimmy" because all the traders (except Jimmy) lived in the county to the east of London, the commission said. The other one was called "Three-way banana split", though the EU's executive arm did not explain why. "Some of the traders created the chat rooms and then invited one another to join, based on their trading activities and personal affinities, creating closed circles of trust," the commission explained. The collusion took place between 2007 and 2013, roughly the years of the financial crisis and has been sanctioned by other authorities, including the US. Except Japan's MUFG, the banks cooperated with the commission and in return received lighter fines than the EU's maximum amount. "We are pleased to resolve this historical matter, which relates to the conduct of one former employee. We have since made significant control improvements," said a spokesperson for JPMorgan. Several of the banks, including Barclays, had already provisioned for the fines in earlier filings.

European Union fines five major banks $1.2 billion for currency collusion

How the European Union will vote and why it matters

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-vote-against-all-alternative-brexit-options-206122">Britain</a> will have to take part in European Parliament elections on May 23 as there is not enough time left to get an exit deal ratified by parliament before then, Prime Minister Theresa May's de facto deputy said on Tuesday.

May had hoped to avoid taking part in the vote, but so far talks with the opposition Labour Party aimed at finding a way forward on Brexit have not succeeded in breaking the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-reject-brexit-deal-for-third-time-206565">deadlock</a>.

"It is regrettably not going to be possible to finish that process before the date that is legally due for the European parliamentary elections ... So those will now go ahead," David Lidington, minister for the Cabinet Office, told reporters.

"We will be redoubling our efforts ... to try to make sure that the delay after that is as short as possible. Ideally we would like to be in a situation where those MEPs from the UK never actually take their seats in the European parliament, certainly to get this done and dusted by the summer recess."

Britain will have to take part in European Parliament elections on May 23 as there is not enough time left to get an exit deal ratified by parliament before then, Prime Minister Theresa May's de facto deputy said on Tuesday.

Britain will have to take part in European Parliament elections on May 23 as there is not enough time left to get an exit deal ratified by parliament before then, Prime Minister Theresa May's de facto deputy said on Tuesday. May had hoped to avoid taking part in the vote, but so far talks with the opposition Labour Party aimed at finding a way forward on Brexit have not succeeded in breaking the deadlock. "It is regrettably not going to be possible to finish that process before the date that is legally due for the European parliamentary elections ... So those will now go ahead," David Lidington, minister for the Cabinet Office, told reporters. "We will be redoubling our efforts ... to try to make sure that the delay after that is as short as possible. Ideally we would like to be in a situation where those MEPs from the UK never actually take their seats in the European parliament, certainly to get this done and dusted by the summer recess."

Britain will take part in European Parliament elections: Minister

Supporters of an <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-chaos-leaves-scotland-on-independence-tightrope-209951&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj2rvTapuvhAhW44XMBHV-YCNoQFjAAegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0j6IiIxFbTuV5DXkhAb4Re">independent Scotland</a> will launch a new grassroots campaign on Thursday ahead of a possible second referendum on secession from the United Kingdom, hoping to harness Scottish voters` anger over Brexit.&nbsp;

Scots rejected independence in 2014 and support since then has remained stuck at around 45 per cent, opinion polls suggest. But Scots also voted to remain in the European Union in the 2016 Brexit referendum, in which England and Wales voted to leave.

Under the crowd-funded initiative "Voices for Scotland", which has some 100,000 supporters, clipboard-wielding activists will fan out across Scotland to try to boost support for secession to the 50-60 per cent range.

"I get the sense that we are in the death throes of the United Kingdom, that it is a very unstable construct," Maggie Chapman, one of the leaders of Voices for Scotland and also co-convenor of the Scottish Greens, told Reuters.

The launch comes a day after Scotland`s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said the country would start preparing for a second referendum on independence before May 2021 without permission from London because of Brexit.

Britain is mired in political chaos after parliament rejected three times the withdrawal deal negotiated by Prime Minister Theresa May and other EU leaders, and it is still unclear when or even if it will leave the bloc.

"UK NOT OK"

"One of the things that `no` or undecided voters said to me in 2014, in the run-up to that referendum (on Scottish independence) was `why, what do you want to change, the UK is fine as it is`," said Chapman.

"Brexit tells us that the UK is not OK, not only in terms of economic legitimacy and power but in terms of trust in politics," she said.

Scotland`s "Yes" movement took support for independence to 45 per cent in 2014 from around 23 per cent in 2012.

The new initiative will train campaigners to go out and "listen to what people need to help them become supportive of independence, as well as to persuade them of its merits", Voices for Scotland said in a statement.

It has so far raised about 100,000 pounds ($129,000) to train and support campaigners to spread the word on "every street in Scotland", Chapman said.

Its aim is particularly to target those who are undecided about Scottish independence or "who support the union but have had their faith undermined by recent events."&nbsp;

Supporters of an independent Scotland will launch a new grassroots campaign on Thursday ahead of a possible second referendum on secession from the United Kingdom, hoping to harness Scottish voters` anger over Brexit.

Supporters of an independent Scotland will launch a new grassroots campaign on Thursday ahead of a possible second referendum on secession from the United Kingdom, hoping to harness Scottish voters` anger over Brexit. Scots rejected independence in 2014 and support since then has remained stuck at around 45 per cent, opinion polls suggest. But Scots also voted to remain in the European Union in the 2016 Brexit referendum, in which England and Wales voted to leave. Under the crowd-funded initiative "Voices for Scotland", which has some 100,000 supporters, clipboard-wielding activists will fan out across Scotland to try to boost support for secession to the 50-60 per cent range. "I get the sense that we are in the death throes of the United Kingdom, that it is a very unstable construct," Maggie Chapman, one of the leaders of Voices for Scotland and also co-convenor of the Scottish Greens, told Reuters. The launch comes a day after Scotland`s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said the country would start preparing for a second referendum on independence before May 2021 without permission from London because of Brexit. Britain is mired in political chaos after parliament rejected three times the withdrawal deal negotiated by Prime Minister Theresa May and other EU leaders, and it is still unclear when or even if it will leave the bloc. "UK NOT OK" "One of the things that `no` or undecided voters said to me in 2014, in the run-up to that referendum (on Scottish independence) was `why, what do you want to change, the UK is fine as it is`," said Chapman. "Brexit tells us that the UK is not OK, not only in terms of economic legitimacy and power but in terms of trust in politics," she said. Scotland`s "Yes" movement took support for independence to 45 per cent in 2014 from around 23 per cent in 2012. The new initiative will train campaigners to go out and "listen to what people need to help them become supportive of independence, as well as to persuade them of its merits", Voices for Scotland said in a statement. It has so far raised about 100,000 pounds ($129,000) to train and support campaigners to spread the word on "every street in Scotland", Chapman said. Its aim is particularly to target those who are undecided about Scottish independence or "who support the union but have had their faith undermined by recent events."

Anger over Brexit sparks new grassroots drive for Scottish independence

US President Donald Trump threatened retribution on Europe Tuesday over tariffs that have bruised profitability at iconic US motorcycle company Harley-Davidson.

Trump cited commentary from Fox Business News anchor Maria Bartiromo, who pointed to the drag from European Union tariffs as a key factor in falling sales by the iconic US motorcycle maker.

"So unfair to US," Trump said on Twitter. "We will reciprocate."

The commentary was a pivot of sorts from the US president, in targeting Brussels rather than Wisconsin-based Harley.&nbsp;

He previously lashed out at the 116-year-old company after it announced plans last summer to shift some US manufacturing overseas as a way to circumvent the EU tariffs, which were imposed on key American goods in March 2018 in retaliation for Trump's tariffs on steel and aluminium.

Trump's latest threat comes as Washington and Brussels are close to the start of formal trade talks, now that the US leader has moved closer to settling a months-long fight with China.

Harley-Davidson reported a $21 million hit from tariffs in the first quarter, which contributed to the 26.8 per cent drop in profits to $127.9 million amid lower revenues.

In June, Harley-Davidson announced it was shifting some manufacturing capacity overseas as "the only sustainable option" following punitive import duties of 31 per cent in the EU.

The motorcycle manufacturer in January 2018 announced it would close a Missouri factory and consolidate jobs into Pennsylvania at the same time it was building a new factory in Thailand.

The Thailand operation is part of Harley's "tariff mitigation" strategy aimed at the growing Southeast Asian market, the company said.

"We're acting with agility and discipline to take full advantage of rapidly evolving global markets," Chief Executive Matt Levatich said.

Harley also is focused on building up a new generation of riders to make up for declines in the older population that has been its bedrock.

The company said it found 278,000 "new riders" in the US in 2018 and that "this group is the most diverse across age, ethnicity and gender in all the years Harley-Davidson has tracked this data."

Shares of Harley-Davidson fell 2.1 per cent to $38.90 in pre-market trading, but was down just 0.35 per cent in early trading.

US President Donald Trump threatened retribution on Europe Tuesday over tariffs that have bruised profitability at iconic US motorcycle company Harley-Davidson. Trump cited commentary from Fox Business News anchor Maria Bartiromo, who pointed to the drag from European Union tariffs as a key factor in falling sales by the iconic US motorcycle maker.

US President Donald Trump threatened retribution on Europe Tuesday over tariffs that have bruised profitability at iconic US motorcycle company Harley-Davidson. Trump cited commentary from Fox Business News anchor Maria Bartiromo, who pointed to the drag from European Union tariffs as a key factor in falling sales by the iconic US motorcycle maker. "So unfair to US," Trump said on Twitter. "We will reciprocate." The commentary was a pivot of sorts from the US president, in targeting Brussels rather than Wisconsin-based Harley. He previously lashed out at the 116-year-old company after it announced plans last summer to shift some US manufacturing overseas as a way to circumvent the EU tariffs, which were imposed on key American goods in March 2018 in retaliation for Trump's tariffs on steel and aluminium. Trump's latest threat comes as Washington and Brussels are close to the start of formal trade talks, now that the US leader has moved closer to settling a months-long fight with China. Harley-Davidson reported a $21 million hit from tariffs in the first quarter, which contributed to the 26.8 per cent drop in profits to $127.9 million amid lower revenues. In June, Harley-Davidson announced it was shifting some manufacturing capacity overseas as "the only sustainable option" following punitive import duties of 31 per cent in the EU. The motorcycle manufacturer in January 2018 announced it would close a Missouri factory and consolidate jobs into Pennsylvania at the same time it was building a new factory in Thailand. The Thailand operation is part of Harley's "tariff mitigation" strategy aimed at the growing Southeast Asian market, the company said. "We're acting with agility and discipline to take full advantage of rapidly evolving global markets," Chief Executive Matt Levatich said. Harley also is focused on building up a new generation of riders to make up for declines in the older population that has been its bedrock. The company said it found 278,000 "new riders" in the US in 2018 and that "this group is the most diverse across age, ethnicity and gender in all the years Harley-Davidson has tracked this data." Shares of Harley-Davidson fell 2.1 per cent to $38.90 in pre-market trading, but was down just 0.35 per cent in early trading.

Donald Trump vows to hit back at European Union as tariffs bite Harley-Davidson

Brexit has created a chaos in UK industries. After Big companies decide to move out their headquarters to other parts of EU from London, the process is not that simple for small firms. Watch this video to know more.

How startups are surviving Brexit and Why companies are moving to Ireland

Britain Will Remain A Member Of European Union Till The End Of October As EU Agrees To An Extension Of Brexit Deadline.

WION Gravitas: it's brextension till october 31

Prime Minister Theresa May insisted Wednesday she wants Britain to leave the EU as soon as possible even as she prepared to agree a potentially long delay to Brexit at an emergency summit in Brussels.

Without a postponement, Britain is due to end its 46-year membership of the European Union at midnight on Friday with no deal, risking economic chaos.&nbsp;

May had wanted to be given until June 30 to try once again to get her EU divorce deal through parliament, but her fellow leaders are expected to offer her a longer delay, of up to a year.

"I want us to be able to leave the European Union in a smooth and orderly way as soon as possible," the prime minister said as she arrived for talks in Brussels.

She added, "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."

Under intense pressure from Brexit supporters at home, May said she still hoped to leave the EU on May 22, the last day before Britain must hold European Parliament elections.

But in Berlin earlier, Chancellor Angela Merkel said the EU leaders might back a delay "longer than the British prime minister has requested".

She said it should be "as short as possible" but said she believed British politicians should be given "a reasonable amount of time" to reach an agreement.

"It should be long enough to create a certain calm so we don't have to meet every two weeks to deal with the same subject," Merkel told the German parliament.

EU Council President Donald Tusk has also suggested there is "little reason to believe" the British parliament can ratify the deal by June 30.

MPs have rejected the plan three times, and May has already been forced to delay Brexit once, from March 29 to April 12. She reluctantly opened talks last week with the opposition Labour party, but those are moving slowly.

"One possibility would be a flexible extension, which would last only as long as necessary and no longer than one year," Tusk said.

According to a draft copy of the summit conclusions that EU leaders were to negotiate later in the day, they were to agree to an extension to allow May time to ratify the withdrawal agreement.

EU elections in doubt

"Such an extension should last only as long as necessary and, in any event, no longer than [XX.XX.XXXX]," the draft reads. The other 27 EU leaders will thrash out what date to fill in the blanks on Wednesday.

"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, seen by AFP says.

Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis said he expected EU leaders to delay Brexit for "much more time" than May asked, on condition that it holds European elections.

"That is why we can agree -- I speak for myself -- the prolongation," he said as he arrived in Brussels.

Britain has already reluctantly began preparations for the polls, setting the date for May 23, although officials insist they could still cancel it at the last minute.

The draft conclusions say that if Britain fails to take part, it will leave the bloc on June 1.

If an extension is agreed, Brussels will portray it as a concession to Britain, with some members -- particularly France -- not keen to see the disruptive Brexit drama drag on much longer.

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 will make her case to her colleagues before leaving them to discuss the length of the Brexit delay -- and any conditions -- without her.

Britain was originally due to leave the EU on March 29. But Brussels agreed an extension after the British parliament rejected the withdrawal agreement negotiated with May.

Prime Minister Theresa May insisted Wednesday she wants Britain to leave the EU as soon as possible even as she prepared to agree a potentially long delay to Brexit at an emergency summit in Brussels.

Prime Minister Theresa May insisted Wednesday she wants Britain to leave the EU as soon as possible even as she prepared to agree a potentially long delay to Brexit at an emergency summit in Brussels. Without a postponement, Britain is due to end its 46-year membership of the European Union at midnight on Friday with no deal, risking economic chaos. May had wanted to be given until June 30 to try once again to get her EU divorce deal through parliament, but her fellow leaders are expected to offer her a longer delay, of up to a year. "I want us to be able to leave the European Union in a smooth and orderly way as soon as possible," the prime minister said as she arrived for talks in Brussels. She added, "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." Under intense pressure from Brexit supporters at home, May said she still hoped to leave the EU on May 22, the last day before Britain must hold European Parliament elections. But in Berlin earlier, Chancellor Angela Merkel said the EU leaders might back a delay "longer than the British prime minister has requested". She said it should be "as short as possible" but said she believed British politicians should be given "a reasonable amount of time" to reach an agreement. "It should be long enough to create a certain calm so we don't have to meet every two weeks to deal with the same subject," Merkel told the German parliament. EU Council President Donald Tusk has also suggested there is "little reason to believe" the British parliament can ratify the deal by June 30. MPs have rejected the plan three times, and May has already been forced to delay Brexit once, from March 29 to April 12. She reluctantly opened talks last week with the opposition Labour party, but those are moving slowly. "One possibility would be a flexible extension, which would last only as long as necessary and no longer than one year," Tusk said. According to a draft copy of the summit conclusions that EU leaders were to negotiate later in the day, they were to agree to an extension to allow May time to ratify the withdrawal agreement. EU elections in doubt "Such an extension should last only as long as necessary and, in any event, no longer than [XX.XX.XXXX]," the draft reads. The other 27 EU leaders will thrash out what date to fill in the blanks on Wednesday. "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, seen by AFP says. Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis said he expected EU leaders to delay Brexit for "much more time" than May asked, on condition that it holds European elections. "That is why we can agree -- I speak for myself -- the prolongation," he said as he arrived in Brussels. Britain has already reluctantly began preparations for the polls, setting the date for May 23, although officials insist they could still cancel it at the last minute. The draft conclusions say that if Britain fails to take part, it will leave the bloc on June 1. If an extension is agreed, Brussels will portray it as a concession to Britain, with some members -- particularly France -- not keen to see the disruptive Brexit drama drag on much longer. 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 will make her case to her colleagues before leaving them to discuss the length of the Brexit delay -- and any conditions -- without her. Britain was originally due to leave the EU on March 29. But Brussels agreed an extension after the British parliament rejected the withdrawal agreement negotiated with May.

May says wants Britain to leave EU 'as soon as possible'

Migrants on board the German charity ship Sea-Eye begged the European Union for help on Tuesday evening (April 9) after being left stranded out at sea for over seven days.

"Please find a way to help us" migrant on stranded Sea-Eye vessel begs EU

The EU on Thursday condemned a decision to strip Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido of immunity from prosecution, calling it a "serious violation" of the constitution that undermined the chances of a peaceful solution to the country's crisis.

"The EU rejects the decision taken by the non-recognised National Constituent Assembly to lift Juan Guaido's parliamentary immunity," EU diplomatic chief Federica Mogherini said, in a statement on behalf of all 28 members of the bloc.

Lawmakers in Venezuela's Constituent Assembly, which is loyal to President Nicolas Maduro, authorised the high court to prosecute Guaido for proclaiming himself the country's ruler.

"This decision constitutes a serious violation of the Venezuelan Constitution, as well as of the rule of law and separation of powers, as the only body authorised to lift the immunity of members of the parliament is the National Assembly," Mogherini said.

"These acts undermine a political way out of the crisis and only lead to further polarisation and escalation of tensions in the country."

Guaido, the speaker of the opposition-controlled National Assembly, declared himself interim president in January as Venezuela's economic and political crisis plunged new depths -- a move recognised by more than 50 countries, including many from the EU.

Mogherini called for Guaido's "constitutionally mandated" immunity to be respected, saying he must not be detained or intimidated.

Critics of the controversial two-year-old Constituent Assembly say it was created to rubber-stamp Maduro's decisions and to sideline the opposition-controlled National Assembly.

Alongside the political tussle, Venezuela has been hit by a series of devastating blackouts that have left millions without water, prompting the government to replace the country's energy minister and institute power rationing.

The EU on Thursday condemned a decision to strip Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido of immunity from prosecution, calling it a "serious violation" of the constitution that undermined the chances of a peaceful solution to the country's crisis.

The EU on Thursday condemned a decision to strip Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido of immunity from prosecution, calling it a "serious violation" of the constitution that undermined the chances of a peaceful solution to the country's crisis. "The EU rejects the decision taken by the non-recognised National Constituent Assembly to lift Juan Guaido's parliamentary immunity," EU diplomatic chief Federica Mogherini said, in a statement on behalf of all 28 members of the bloc. Lawmakers in Venezuela's Constituent Assembly, which is loyal to President Nicolas Maduro, authorised the high court to prosecute Guaido for proclaiming himself the country's ruler. "This decision constitutes a serious violation of the Venezuelan Constitution, as well as of the rule of law and separation of powers, as the only body authorised to lift the immunity of members of the parliament is the National Assembly," Mogherini said. "These acts undermine a political way out of the crisis and only lead to further polarisation and escalation of tensions in the country." Guaido, the speaker of the opposition-controlled National Assembly, declared himself interim president in January as Venezuela's economic and political crisis plunged new depths -- a move recognised by more than 50 countries, including many from the EU. Mogherini called for Guaido's "constitutionally mandated" immunity to be respected, saying he must not be detained or intimidated. Critics of the controversial two-year-old Constituent Assembly say it was created to rubber-stamp Maduro's decisions and to sideline the opposition-controlled National Assembly. Alongside the political tussle, Venezuela has been hit by a series of devastating blackouts that have left millions without water, prompting the government to replace the country's energy minister and institute power rationing.

EU condemns stripping of immunity from Venezuela's Guaido

British Prime Minister Theresa May was set to seek a Brexit compromise with opposition leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-soldiers-used-labour-leader-photo-for-target-practice-army-says-its-probing-207709">Jeremy Corbyn</a> on Wednesday, a gamble that could see a European Union divorce deal finally clear parliament but also tear her party apart.

The United Kingdom was supposed to leave the EU last Friday, but, three years after Britons narrowly voted for Brexit in a referendum, it is still unclear how, when or even whether it will exit the bloc.

After her EU withdrawal deal was rejected three times by lawmakers, with parliament and her Conservative Party hopelessly divided over Brexit, May said she would talk to the Labour Party leader in a bid to overcome what is now a national crisis.

"There are actually a number of areas we agree on in relation to Brexit ... what we want to do now is to find a way forward that can command the support of this House and deliver on Brexit," May told parliament.

However, by approaching Corbyn, a veteran socialist loathed by many of May's Conservatives and mocked by May herself as unfit to govern, she risks further inflaming divisions in her party. One minister quit on Wednesday.

"It now seems that you and your cabinet have decided that a deal - cooked up with a Marxist who has never once in his political life put British interests first - is better than 'no- deal'," Nigel Adams said as he resigned as a minister for Wales.

May turned to Labour after a hardcore eurosceptic group of Conservatives repeatedly rejected her divorce deal, saying it would leave Britain a 'vassal state'.

Labour wants to stay in a customs union with the EU, raising the likelihood of a "soft" Brexit option that keeps Britain's economy closely aligned to the world's biggest trading bloc.

Brexit Secretary Stephen Barclay said the government would accept a soft Brexit if parliament voted for it.

Sterling hit its highest level since March 28.&nbsp;

SHORT DELAY?

May said on Tuesday she would seek "as short as possible" a delay to the current Brexit date of April 12, having repeatedly said she did not want Britain to have to take part in European Parliament elections on May 23.

Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney said Ireland would support a delay but Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz said there was currently no reason to agree an extension.

And European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker said Britain would not get any further short delays to Brexit unless its parliament ratified a deal by April 12 - the date set by EU leaders as the effective cut-off for avoiding the European Parliament elections.

"A 'no-deal' at midnight on the 12th of April is now a very likely scenario," he told the European Parliament.

He reiterated that Britain would not get a transition period to soften the impact of leaving the EU unless it ratified the exit deal: "UK will be affected more than EU because there is no such thing as a 'managed or negotiated no-deal' and there is no such thing as a 'no-deal transition'."

As things stand, Britain will still leave the EU on April 12 without a deal, a scenario many Conservative lawmakers would welcome, but that businesses fear could cause huge economic damage.

A survey of services firms ranging from banks to high-street hairdressers on Wednesday suggested the world's fifth-biggest economy was likely to shrink in the coming months because of Brexit uncertainty.

May and Corbyn will meet at 1330 GMT but may struggle to find a compromise position that can satisfy their own parties.

"I realise some of you will be concerned about the government discussing the way forward with the opposition," May said in a letter to Conservative lawmakers on Wednesday.

"However, with some colleagues unwilling to support the government ... this is the only way to deliver the smooth, orderly Brexit that we promised."

Conservative divisions over Europe are decades old and have led to the demise of three prime ministers: David Cameron, John Major and Margaret Thatcher.

'IT'S A TRAP'

Labour is also far from united. Corbyn, who voted against joining the bloc in 1975, has said Brexit should include a customs union with the EU and protection for consumer and environmental standards and workers’ rights.

Many supporters want the party to throw its weight behind a second referendum. But some Labour lawmakers who represent areas that voted strongly to leave the EU not only reject this but also fear that a 'soft' Brexit would be seen as a betrayal.

A Labour spokesman said the party was ready for serious discussion if May was ready to relax the 'red lines' she had so far set in negotiations.

Corbyn said any agreement that he struck with May - who has promised to resign if a Brexit deal is passed - must be set in law to guarantee that it could not be changed by any successor.

Pro-EU Labour lawmaker Ben Bradshaw warned: "It is clearly a trap designed to try to get May’s terrible deal through, which some people have fallen for, but Labour mustn’t."

It is also unclear where May's last-ditch bid will leave her minority government. The Democratic Unionist Party, the small Northern Irish party whose support she needs to govern, said it was wary of making any deal with a man whom many in May's party have demonised.

"I would simply counsel my government and my party and my prime minister: 'Stop, think very carefully what you are doing'," former Conservative leader Iain Duncan Smith told BBC TV.

"If you give legitimacy to a man that I think is genuinely not fit to run Britain and will do it damage, you will damage the very prospects of your own party and, most importantly for people like me, the prospects for our country."

British Prime Minister Theresa May was set to seek a Brexit compromise with opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn on Wednesday, a gamble that could see a European Union divorce deal finally clear parliament but also tear her party apart.

British Prime Minister Theresa May was set to seek a Brexit compromise with opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn on Wednesday, a gamble that could see a European Union divorce deal finally clear parliament but also tear her party apart. The United Kingdom was supposed to leave the EU last Friday, but, three years after Britons narrowly voted for Brexit in a referendum, it is still unclear how, when or even whether it will exit the bloc. After her EU withdrawal deal was rejected three times by lawmakers, with parliament and her Conservative Party hopelessly divided over Brexit, May said she would talk to the Labour Party leader in a bid to overcome what is now a national crisis. "There are actually a number of areas we agree on in relation to Brexit ... what we want to do now is to find a way forward that can command the support of this House and deliver on Brexit," May told parliament. However, by approaching Corbyn, a veteran socialist loathed by many of May's Conservatives and mocked by May herself as unfit to govern, she risks further inflaming divisions in her party. One minister quit on Wednesday. "It now seems that you and your cabinet have decided that a deal - cooked up with a Marxist who has never once in his political life put British interests first - is better than 'no- deal'," Nigel Adams said as he resigned as a minister for Wales. May turned to Labour after a hardcore eurosceptic group of Conservatives repeatedly rejected her divorce deal, saying it would leave Britain a 'vassal state'. Labour wants to stay in a customs union with the EU, raising the likelihood of a "soft" Brexit option that keeps Britain's economy closely aligned to the world's biggest trading bloc. Brexit Secretary Stephen Barclay said the government would accept a soft Brexit if parliament voted for it. Sterling hit its highest level since March 28. SHORT DELAY? May said on Tuesday she would seek "as short as possible" a delay to the current Brexit date of April 12, having repeatedly said she did not want Britain to have to take part in European Parliament elections on May 23. Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney said Ireland would support a delay but Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz said there was currently no reason to agree an extension. And European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker said Britain would not get any further short delays to Brexit unless its parliament ratified a deal by April 12 - the date set by EU leaders as the effective cut-off for avoiding the European Parliament elections. "A 'no-deal' at midnight on the 12th of April is now a very likely scenario," he told the European Parliament. He reiterated that Britain would not get a transition period to soften the impact of leaving the EU unless it ratified the exit deal: "UK will be affected more than EU because there is no such thing as a 'managed or negotiated no-deal' and there is no such thing as a 'no-deal transition'." As things stand, Britain will still leave the EU on April 12 without a deal, a scenario many Conservative lawmakers would welcome, but that businesses fear could cause huge economic damage. A survey of services firms ranging from banks to high-street hairdressers on Wednesday suggested the world's fifth-biggest economy was likely to shrink in the coming months because of Brexit uncertainty. May and Corbyn will meet at 1330 GMT but may struggle to find a compromise position that can satisfy their own parties. "I realise some of you will be concerned about the government discussing the way forward with the opposition," May said in a letter to Conservative lawmakers on Wednesday. "However, with some colleagues unwilling to support the government ... this is the only way to deliver the smooth, orderly Brexit that we promised." Conservative divisions over Europe are decades old and have led to the demise of three prime ministers: David Cameron, John Major and Margaret Thatcher. 'IT'S A TRAP' Labour is also far from united. Corbyn, who voted against joining the bloc in 1975, has said Brexit should include a customs union with the EU and protection for consumer and environmental standards and workers’ rights. Many supporters want the party to throw its weight behind a second referendum. But some Labour lawmakers who represent areas that voted strongly to leave the EU not only reject this but also fear that a 'soft' Brexit would be seen as a betrayal. A Labour spokesman said the party was ready for serious discussion if May was ready to relax the 'red lines' she had so far set in negotiations. Corbyn said any agreement that he struck with May - who has promised to resign if a Brexit deal is passed - must be set in law to guarantee that it could not be changed by any successor. Pro-EU Labour lawmaker Ben Bradshaw warned: "It is clearly a trap designed to try to get May’s terrible deal through, which some people have fallen for, but Labour mustn’t." It is also unclear where May's last-ditch bid will leave her minority government. The Democratic Unionist Party, the small Northern Irish party whose support she needs to govern, said it was wary of making any deal with a man whom many in May's party have demonised. "I would simply counsel my government and my party and my prime minister: 'Stop, think very carefully what you are doing'," former Conservative leader Iain Duncan Smith told BBC TV. "If you give legitimacy to a man that I think is genuinely not fit to run Britain and will do it damage, you will damage the very prospects of your own party and, most importantly for people like me, the prospects for our country."

Brexit: May to meet opposition leader Corbyn but a deal, if reached, could tear her party apart

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - April 1st, 2019

The EU on Thursday urged London to provide a way forward on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-vote-against-all-alternative-brexit-options-206122">Brexit</a>, taking note that the British Parliament had failed to agree a fresh solution to the UK's divorce from the bloc.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/heres-how-brexit-endgame-could-play-out-205678"> What in the world is going on with Brexit?</a>

"The European Commission takes note of the indicative votes in the House of Commons last night. This is part of an ongoing political process in the UK, which we fully respect," EU spokesman Margaritis Schinas said.

"We counted eight 'no's last night, now we need a 'yes' on the way forward," he added.

Schinas was referring to the parliament's unprecedented step on Tuesday of voting a choice of alternate solutions to the near-dead divorce deal May reached with Brussels after 17 months of talks.

But none of the eight options secured a majority and another vote has been set for Monday on some of the proposals.

A proposal to hold a second referendum -- a popular idea with EU supporters -- came second while those promoting a cleaner break finished near the bottom.

Belgian Prime Minister Charles Michel told journalists in Brussels that without a solution from Britain, EU leaders would meet again on April 10 or 11 to discuss next steps.

EU leaders last week offered Britain a Brexit extension until May 22, but only on condition that parliament votes through the deal by Friday, the day Britain was originally scheduled to leave the European Union.

The May government said Wednesday it wanted a third vote on the EU deal on Friday, but the outcome remained uncertain.

If the vote fails a third time, May will have to spell out to EU leaders what steps Britain will take by a deadline of April 12, or risk crashing out of the bloc without any arrangements in place.

The EU on Thursday urged London to provide a way forward on Brexit, taking note that the British Parliament had failed to agree a fresh solution to the UK's divorce from the bloc.

The EU on Thursday urged London to provide a way forward on Brexit, taking note that the British Parliament had failed to agree a fresh solution to the UK's divorce from the bloc. Also read: What in the world is going on with Brexit? "The European Commission takes note of the indicative votes in the House of Commons last night. This is part of an ongoing political process in the UK, which we fully respect," EU spokesman Margaritis Schinas said. "We counted eight 'no's last night, now we need a 'yes' on the way forward," he added. Schinas was referring to the parliament's unprecedented step on Tuesday of voting a choice of alternate solutions to the near-dead divorce deal May reached with Brussels after 17 months of talks. But none of the eight options secured a majority and another vote has been set for Monday on some of the proposals. A proposal to hold a second referendum -- a popular idea with EU supporters -- came second while those promoting a cleaner break finished near the bottom. Belgian Prime Minister Charles Michel told journalists in Brussels that without a solution from Britain, EU leaders would meet again on April 10 or 11 to discuss next steps. EU leaders last week offered Britain a Brexit extension until May 22, but only on condition that parliament votes through the deal by Friday, the day Britain was originally scheduled to leave the European Union. The May government said Wednesday it wanted a third vote on the EU deal on Friday, but the outcome remained uncertain. If the vote fails a third time, May will have to spell out to EU leaders what steps Britain will take by a deadline of April 12, or risk crashing out of the bloc without any arrangements in place.

EU 'needs yes' on Brexit after UK MPs vote no

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 lawmakers have endorsed an overhaul of the bloc's two-decade old <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-countries-back-copyright-reforms-aimed-at-google-facebook-198643">copyright rules</a>, which will force <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-fines-google-149-billion-euros-for-anti-trust-breach-204538">Google</a> and Facebook Inc to pay publishers for use of news snippets and make them filter out protected content.

The European Parliament backed the reforms by 348 votes to 274 on Tuesday after a debate that has pitted Europe's creative industry against tech companies, internet activists and consumer groups concerned that the new rules may be too costly and block too much content.

The European Commission began reviewing the rules two years ago in a bid to protect an industry that is worth 915 billion euros ($1.03 trillion) a year, accounting for 11.65 million jobs and 6.8 percent of the EU economy.

The new rules mean that Google and other online platforms will have to sign licensing agreements with musicians, performers, authors, news publishers and journalists to use their work online.

Google's YouTube, Facebook's Instagram and other sharing platforms will also have to install filters to prevent users from uploading copyrighted materials.

Both provisions triggered fierce lobbying from both sides.

The Commission's digital chief for Europe Andrus Ansip welcomed the outcome, saying the reforms would improve the position of writers, journalists, singers, musicians and actors vis-a-vis the big platforms using their content.

"Today's vote ensures the right balance between the interests of all players – users, creators, authors, press – while putting in place proportionate obligations on online platforms," he said in a statement.

But Google said the reforms would lead to legal uncertainty and hurt Europe's creative and digital economies. The European Consumer Organisation (BEUC) echoed the criticism.

"Consumers will have to bear the consequences of this decision. Their concerns had been voiced loud and clearly but MEPs chose to ignore them," BEUC director general Monique Goyens said.

Firefox browser-maker Mozilla was scathing about the vote.

"The EU institutions have squandered the progress made by innovators and creators to imagine new content and share it with people across the world," its EU policy head Raegan MacDonald said.

"They have handed the power back to large U.S. owned record labels, film studios and big tech.

Vast swathes of online services, not just those concerning music or news, could face unintended consequences, said Raffaella De Santis at law firm Harbottle &amp; Lewis.

"Care will need to be taken to ensure that smaller services are not disproportionately disadvantaged by measures which are in reality designed to curtail the formerly unchecked power of the tech giants," she said.

Lawmaker Julia Reda, a prominent critic of the reforms, said they threatened the free internet.

"Algorithms cannot distinguish between actual copyright infringements and the perfectly legal re-use of content for purposes such as parody," she said.

But lawmaker Axel Voss, who is in charge of the subject, rejected the criticism.

"We have agreed a new set of rules which will do exactly the opposite of killing the internet," he said.

Last month, Finland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands and Poland refused to back the reforms

EU lawmakers have endorsed an overhaul of the bloc's two-decade old copyright rules, which will force Google and Facebook Inc to pay publishers for use of news snippets and make them filter out protected content.

EU lawmakers have endorsed an overhaul of the bloc's two-decade old copyright rules, which will force Google and Facebook Inc to pay publishers for use of news snippets and make them filter out protected content. The European Parliament backed the reforms by 348 votes to 274 on Tuesday after a debate that has pitted Europe's creative industry against tech companies, internet activists and consumer groups concerned that the new rules may be too costly and block too much content. The European Commission began reviewing the rules two years ago in a bid to protect an industry that is worth 915 billion euros ($1.03 trillion) a year, accounting for 11.65 million jobs and 6.8 percent of the EU economy. The new rules mean that Google and other online platforms will have to sign licensing agreements with musicians, performers, authors, news publishers and journalists to use their work online. Google's YouTube, Facebook's Instagram and other sharing platforms will also have to install filters to prevent users from uploading copyrighted materials. Both provisions triggered fierce lobbying from both sides. The Commission's digital chief for Europe Andrus Ansip welcomed the outcome, saying the reforms would improve the position of writers, journalists, singers, musicians and actors vis-a-vis the big platforms using their content. "Today's vote ensures the right balance between the interests of all players – users, creators, authors, press – while putting in place proportionate obligations on online platforms," he said in a statement. But Google said the reforms would lead to legal uncertainty and hurt Europe's creative and digital economies. The European Consumer Organisation (BEUC) echoed the criticism. "Consumers will have to bear the consequences of this decision. Their concerns had been voiced loud and clearly but MEPs chose to ignore them," BEUC director general Monique Goyens said. Firefox browser-maker Mozilla was scathing about the vote. "The EU institutions have squandered the progress made by innovators and creators to imagine new content and share it with people across the world," its EU policy head Raegan MacDonald said. "They have handed the power back to large U.S. owned record labels, film studios and big tech. Vast swathes of online services, not just those concerning music or news, could face unintended consequences, said Raffaella De Santis at law firm Harbottle & Lewis. "Care will need to be taken to ensure that smaller services are not disproportionately disadvantaged by measures which are in reality designed to curtail the formerly unchecked power of the tech giants," she said. Lawmaker Julia Reda, a prominent critic of the reforms, said they threatened the free internet. "Algorithms cannot distinguish between actual copyright infringements and the perfectly legal re-use of content for purposes such as parody," she said. But lawmaker Axel Voss, who is in charge of the subject, rejected the criticism. "We have agreed a new set of rules which will do exactly the opposite of killing the internet," he said. Last month, Finland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands and Poland refused to back the reforms

Google, Facebook to pay publishers for use of news in EU

UK lawmakers voted to take control of Brexit process

By Ron Johnston, Charles Pattie and David Manley*

Not surprisingly, much public attention has been given to the online petition asking parliament to revoke Article 50 so that the UK will remain within the European Union. It attracted more than 5m signatures within a week of being launched, making it the most signed petition since the government’s e-petition site began. It crashed the system multiple times over the course of the first few days.&nbsp;

Critics of the petition, largely drawn from those who promoted and continue to support Brexit, claim that it is yet another attempt by those who opposed Leave to subvert the democratic decision reached by a clear majority in the June 2016 referendum. They claim that many of those opposed to leaving the EU cannot accept that decision and are using whatever methods they can to overturn it.&nbsp;

Are they right? The numbers signing the e-petition are remarkable. But even if we assume (as seems reasonable) that almost all signatories were Remain voters, most Remainers have not (yet) signed. As of the time of writing, two-thirds had not done so.

This does not mean, of course, that those who have not signed are therefore opposed to the petition (we cannot know – and there may well be people who have not signed because they never sign petitions at all, even when they support a petition’s cause).

But we can assess whether support for revoking Article 50 is related to support for Remain by comparing their respective geographies. Data are available on the number of signatories to the petition in each of the UK’s 650 parliamentary constituencies (signatories were asked to give a postcode, and this can be matched to the relevant constituency).&nbsp;

As of March 25, the spread varied considerably. Only 2.6 per cent of the people registered to vote in Walsall North in 2018 (1,722), for example, had signed the 2019 petition. Meanwhile, over in Bristol West, 39.9 per cent of the electorate had signed.

By comparison, estimates suggested that 74.2 per cent of Walsall North’s voters supported Brexit in 2016, compared to just 20.7 per cent in Bristol West. These extremes are at the ends of a clear continuum for all 650 UK constituencies: the larger the vote for Brexit in 2016 the smaller the percentage who have signed the petition.&nbsp;

<figure class="align-center ">
<img alt="" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/265680/original/file-20190325-36283-r8mn38.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/265680/original/file-20190325-36283-r8mn38.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=604&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/265680/original/file-20190325-36283-r8mn38.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=604&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/265680/original/file-20190325-36283-r8mn38.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=604&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/265680/original/file-20190325-36283-r8mn38.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=759&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/265680/original/file-20190325-36283-r8mn38.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=759&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/265680/original/file-20190325-36283-r8mn38.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=759&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 2262w" />

Regional surprises

<figcaption>
There are some variations around this general trend, however. For instance, far fewer voters in Wales, Scotland and, especially, Northern Ireland have supported the petition than in England. This is particularly surprising given that both Northern Ireland and Scotland voted to remain in 2016.&nbsp;A statistical model describing the general trend allows us to predict what the typical percentage signing the petition would be in constituencies with different Brexit votes in 2016. Based on such a model, we calculate that in English constituencies where 50 per cent supported Leave in the referendum, on average about 13 per cent signed the petition. In similar Scottish constituencies, it was only 6.1 per cent and in Northern Ireland only 5.4 per cent. Wales, of course, voted Leave, but in constituencies, there were around 50 per cent voted to leave, support for the petition now was about 10.4 per cent.

For some reason, support for revoking Article 50 (as measured by this petition at least) has been smaller in the UK’s Celtic fringe.

The critics – not surprisingly – are right, at least in the sense that the petition appeals most to Remain supporters. The geography of support for revoking Article 50 and the UK remaining in the EU is very largely the same as the geography of support for Remain three years ago: on average there has been no change – although we have to wonder why the Scots and Northern Irish have been relatively silent this time.&nbsp;

*(Ron Johnston is Professor of Geography, University of Bristol, Charles Pattie is a Professor of Electoral Geography, University of Sheffield and David Manley is a Professor of Human Geography, University of Bristol. )

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/revoke-article-50-petition-largely-remainers-signing-but-theres-a-surprising-regional-twist-114258">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;
</figcaption>
</figure>

&nbsp;

By Ron Johnston, Charles Pattie and David Manley* Not surprisingly, much public attention has been given to the online petition asking parliament to revoke Article 50 so that the UK will remain within the European Union.

By Ron Johnston, Charles Pattie and David Manley* Not surprisingly, much public attention has been given to the online petition asking parliament to revoke Article 50 so that the UK will remain within the European Union. It attracted more than 5m signatures within a week of being launched, making it the most signed petition since the government’s e-petition site began. It crashed the system multiple times over the course of the first few days. Critics of the petition, largely drawn from those who promoted and continue to support Brexit, claim that it is yet another attempt by those who opposed Leave to subvert the democratic decision reached by a clear majority in the June 2016 referendum. They claim that many of those opposed to leaving the EU cannot accept that decision and are using whatever methods they can to overturn it. Are they right? The numbers signing the e-petition are remarkable. But even if we assume (as seems reasonable) that almost all signatories were Remain voters, most Remainers have not (yet) signed. As of the time of writing, two-thirds had not done so. This does not mean, of course, that those who have not signed are therefore opposed to the petition (we cannot know – and there may well be people who have not signed because they never sign petitions at all, even when they support a petition’s cause). But we can assess whether support for revoking Article 50 is related to support for Remain by comparing their respective geographies. Data are available on the number of signatories to the petition in each of the UK’s 650 parliamentary constituencies (signatories were asked to give a postcode, and this can be matched to the relevant constituency). As of March 25, the spread varied considerably. Only 2.6 per cent of the people registered to vote in Walsall North in 2018 (1,722), for example, had signed the 2019 petition. Meanwhile, over in Bristol West, 39.9 per cent of the electorate had signed. By comparison, estimates suggested that 74.2 per cent of Walsall North’s voters supported Brexit in 2016, compared to just 20.7 per cent in Bristol West. These extremes are at the ends of a clear continuum for all 650 UK constituencies: the larger the vote for Brexit in 2016 the smaller the percentage who have signed the petition. Regional surprises There are some variations around this general trend, however. For instance, far fewer voters in Wales, Scotland and, especially, Northern Ireland have supported the petition than in England. This is particularly surprising given that both Northern Ireland and Scotland voted to remain in 2016. A statistical model describing the general trend allows us to predict what the typical percentage signing the petition would be in constituencies with different Brexit votes in 2016. Based on such a model, we calculate that in English constituencies where 50 per cent supported Leave in the referendum, on average about 13 per cent signed the petition. In similar Scottish constituencies, it was only 6.1 per cent and in Northern Ireland only 5.4 per cent. Wales, of course, voted Leave, but in constituencies, there were around 50 per cent voted to leave, support for the petition now was about 10.4 per cent. For some reason, support for revoking Article 50 (as measured by this petition at least) has been smaller in the UK’s Celtic fringe. The critics – not surprisingly – are right, at least in the sense that the petition appeals most to Remain supporters. The geography of support for revoking Article 50 and the UK remaining in the EU is very largely the same as the geography of support for Remain three years ago: on average there has been no change – although we have to wonder why the Scots and Northern Irish have been relatively silent this time. *(Ron Johnston is Professor of Geography, University of Bristol, Charles Pattie is a Professor of Electoral Geography, University of Sheffield and David Manley is a Professor of Human Geography, University of Bristol. ) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

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