Boris Johnson's Victory In UK Elections: Impact On India.

WION Edit: What Johnson's victory means for India?

It the eve of elections in the United Kingdom, third poll in four years and contenders Boris Johnson and Jeremy Corbyn have tried every trick in the book to impress the voters. Johnson was seen driving a bulldozer through a brick wall of foam bricks with the words "Get Brexit Done" written on it. On the other hand Jeremy Corbyn was making paper Reindeer with the kids at primary school.

WION Dispatch: UK Prime Ministership candidates try every bit to impress voters

Boris Johnson has won the prime ministership of the UK again and now he has the mandate to move very swiftly to remove the UK from the EU, he will have great authority in negotiating new trade deals. Brexit will now finally 'get done' as Johnson has the majority.

UK Elections 2019: Boris Johnson wins, now onto Brexit

Just before 24 hours left before Britain's goes back to the ballot boxes to pick its Prime Minister. UK elections are supposed to be held every five years but elections for 2019, is a third since 2015. watch this report to know more:

UK Elections 2019: Will Johnson's Brexit Gamble pay off?

Johnson fights to keep power. He backs Britain's exit from the E.U

UK: Boris Johnson fights to retain the position

Prime Minister Boris Johnson shook hands with his rival, opposition Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, during a live television debate on Tuesday (November 19) as both men agreed to improve the tone of Britain's political debate.

WION Dispatch: Johnson, Corbyn clash over Brexit

As the British Parliament gets ready to vote on Brexit tonight, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-parliament-speaker-john-bercow-blocks-holding-of-new-vote-on-brexit-deal-257365">European Commission chief </a>Jean-Claude Juncker said the European body had done everything it could to make sure UK's departure from the European body is "orderly".

Addressing the European Parliament, Jean-Claude Juncker said: "At least we can look ourselves in the eyes and say that we have done all in our power to make sure that this departure is orderly."&nbsp;

British parliamentarians will be voting today on the 115-page Withdrawal Agreement Bill and then vote on the government's extremely tight timetable for approving the legislation. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/johnson-adamant-on-brexit-deadline-despite-delay-request-257170">Prime Minister Johnson has</a> vowed to exit the European by October 31.

"We need now to watch events in Westminster very closely," Juncker said. "It's not possible, not imaginable that this (European) parliament will ratify the agreement before Westminster will have ratified the agreement," European Commission President Juncker added.

Watch Video:

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PM Johnson is battling to pull Britain out of the European Union as Parliament has repeatedly rejected his call for a no-deal. The United Kingdom had voted 52%-48% to leave the European Union in 2016, however, the path to Brexit has led to the resignation of two ministers - Cameron and Theresa May - with Johnson intent on walking out even if the 28-nation union offers no deal, a move bitterly contested by British lawmakers.

"It is obvious that the result of these consultations will very much depend on what the British parliament decides, or doesn’t decide. We should be ready for every scenario," Juncker told the European Parliament.

PM Johnson cannot afford a defeat of either vote tonight which is likely to delay his Brexit plan even as Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage told the EU parliament that another delay was on the cards.

Ahead of the vote in Parliament, the British pound fell from Monday's five-month peaks at $1.2936 Tuesday, down from $1.2960 late in New York on Monday as the country awaits the verdict on Brexit by lawmakers tonight.

As the British Parliament gets ready to vote on Brexit tonight, European Commission chief Jean-Claude Juncker said the European body had done everything it could to make sure UK's departure from the European body is "orderly".

As the British Parliament gets ready to vote on Brexit tonight, European Commission chief Jean-Claude Juncker said the European body had done everything it could to make sure UK's departure from the European body is "orderly". Addressing the European Parliament, Jean-Claude Juncker said: "At least we can look ourselves in the eyes and say that we have done all in our power to make sure that this departure is orderly." British parliamentarians will be voting today on the 115-page Withdrawal Agreement Bill and then vote on the government's extremely tight timetable for approving the legislation. Prime Minister Johnson has vowed to exit the European by October 31. "We need now to watch events in Westminster very closely," Juncker said. "It's not possible, not imaginable that this (European) parliament will ratify the agreement before Westminster will have ratified the agreement," European Commission President Juncker added. Watch Video: PM Johnson is battling to pull Britain out of the European Union as Parliament has repeatedly rejected his call for a no-deal. The United Kingdom had voted 52%-48% to leave the European Union in 2016, however, the path to Brexit has led to the resignation of two ministers - Cameron and Theresa May - with Johnson intent on walking out even if the 28-nation union offers no deal, a move bitterly contested by British lawmakers. "It is obvious that the result of these consultations will very much depend on what the British parliament decides, or doesn’t decide. We should be ready for every scenario," Juncker told the European Parliament. PM Johnson cannot afford a defeat of either vote tonight which is likely to delay his Brexit plan even as Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage told the EU parliament that another delay was on the cards. Ahead of the vote in Parliament, the British pound fell from Monday's five-month peaks at $1.2936 Tuesday, down from $1.2960 late in New York on Monday as the country awaits the verdict on Brexit by lawmakers tonight.

Ahead of Brexit vote, EU says 'done all in our power' for 'orderly departure'

Johnson defiant after British parliament votes to force Brexit delay. Watch video to know more.

Johnson defiant after British parliament votes to force Brexit delay

PM Boris&nbsp;Johnson on Wednesday again reiterated that Britain will be out of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-commissions-juncker-says-britain-will-be-responsible-if-no-brexit-deal-252324">European Union</a> "by October 31 come what may".

Johnson began his speech by paying tribute&nbsp;to his predecessor former prime minister Theresa May who had fronted the Brexit agreement for several months.

"We will be out of EU by October 31 come what may," the British prime minister said, adding, "even though things have not been made easier by the "surrender bill", we will work for a deal with our EU friends."&nbsp;

"Let's get Brexit done by October 31," he told party workers.

As he began his speech, Johnson jocked "if the Parliament were a laptop, then the screen would be showing the pizza wheel on a doom."&nbsp;

"I have kept the ace up my sleeve - my mother voted leave."

"We will respect the Good Friday Agreement," the British prime minister asserted.&nbsp;

"I am ready for no-deal Brexit outcome," he said, adding the delay was "pointless"

"Brexit will bring a lot of opportunities," he told party men at the conference.&nbsp;

The United Kingdom is set to exit the EU on October 31, however, several hurdles remain as the European body and Britain look to come up with an exit plan.

Ahead of PM Johnson's speech, EU officials had said the British proposal was "fundamentally flawed", Reuters reported.

PM Boris Johnson on Wednesday again reiterated that Britain will be out of the European Union "by October 31 come what may". Johnson began his speech by paying tribute to his predecessor former prime minister Theresa May who had fronted the Brexit agreement for several months.

PM Boris Johnson on Wednesday again reiterated that Britain will be out of the European Union "by October 31 come what may". Johnson began his speech by paying tribute to his predecessor former prime minister Theresa May who had fronted the Brexit agreement for several months. "We will be out of EU by October 31 come what may," the British prime minister said, adding, "even though things have not been made easier by the "surrender bill", we will work for a deal with our EU friends." "Let's get Brexit done by October 31," he told party workers. As he began his speech, Johnson jocked "if the Parliament were a laptop, then the screen would be showing the pizza wheel on a doom." "I have kept the ace up my sleeve - my mother voted leave." "We will respect the Good Friday Agreement," the British prime minister asserted. "I am ready for no-deal Brexit outcome," he said, adding the delay was "pointless" "Brexit will bring a lot of opportunities," he told party men at the conference. The United Kingdom is set to exit the EU on October 31, however, several hurdles remain as the European body and Britain look to come up with an exit plan. Ahead of PM Johnson's speech, EU officials had said the British proposal was "fundamentally flawed", Reuters reported.

Will be out of EU by October 31, come what may: British PM Johnson

Britain's Boris Johnson is known for his colourful love life but the accusation he grabbed a young woman's thigh when he was a magazine editor risks a scandal as he seeks to unite his party over Brexit.

The prime minister, who is attending his Conservative party's conference in Manchester, northwest England, is accused of giving a female journalist's leg "a squeeze" while at a private lunch 20 years ago.

Johnson never comments on his personal life but his spokesman issued a clear denial -- an acknowledgement that the claim is more serious than gossip about his affairs.

It follows accusations that Johnson gave special access to a US businesswoman with whom he is alleged to have had a relationship when he was mayor of London.

He denies any impropriety, but it is yet another headache after his defeats in parliament and the courts over his pledge to leave the EU on October 31, come what may.

Powerful men

In an article published in The Sunday Times, journalist Charlotte Edwardes described a boozy lunch in the offices of The Spectator magazine around two decades ago, when Johnson was editor.

She was sitting next to him and wrote that "under the table I feel Johnson's hand on my thigh. He gives it a squeeze".

"His hand is high up my leg and he has enough inner flesh beneath his fingers to make me sit suddenly upright."

She said a woman she spoke with after the dinner, who was sitting on Johnson's other side, said the same thing happened to her.

Johnson was married at the time to his second wife. They are now divorced and he currently lives with his girlfriend Carrie Symonds.

Downing Street said Edwardes' claim was "untrue", and the prime minister himself denied it in a television interview, while refusing to comment further.

But health minister Matt Hancock said he knew Edwardes well, and "I entirely trust what she has to say".

Former Conservative minister Justine Greening, who is now an independent MP, said the claim was "deeply concerning".

It went "to the heart of this question about character and integrity of people in public life and what standards the electorate have a right to expect," she told BBC radio.

The allegation comes two years after defence minister Michael Fallon quit following revelations he tried to kiss a journalist.

Opposition Labour lawmaker Dawn Butler added: "What is it about powerful men feeling entitled to harass women? Boris Johnson has serious questions to answer."

A feminist

Yet at the party conference in Manchester, many delegates were sanguine -- while a number of female Conservatives offered their support for Johnson.

"He's a decent person. I think he cares a great deal about women and girls," former defence minister Penny Mordaunt told a fringe meeting.

MP Rachel Maclean highlighted Johnson's campaigning against female genital mutilation, declaring him "a feminist".

Fleur Butler, national chairman of the Conservative Women's Organisation, told AFP the claim related to a time when "the world was a different place".

She said she did not know if the claim was true but added: "It's really important though for the party to say that we do not accept this type of behaviour moving forward."

Brexit first 

Johnson is no stranger to personal scandal, most recently over a noisy row with Symonds that resulted in police being called to their flat in south London.

There are concerns that the latest claims could damage Johnson's standing with women, who are already less likely to support him.

A YouGov survey this week found 44 per cent of men thought Johnson was likeable, compared to 34 per cent of women.

One female Conservative member in her 20s, speaking on condition of anonymity, told AFP: "I think it's a really big issue.

"There are still some older members of the Conservative party who don't treat women as they should."

But for many in Manchester, the biggest issue remains Brexit -- and they believe Johnson is the man who can deliver that, regardless of anything else.

"We need to get somebody to get Brexit done," Margaret Dane, a retired Tory party member, told AFP.

As for the squeezing allegation, she added: "I'll just have to discount the fact that it might be the truth."

Others dismissed it as yet another story "dredged up" to discredit the prime minister.

"It should be looked into. But so much is coming out, I think people are getting immune to it," said 48-year-old councillor Julian Goodrich. 
&nbsp;

Britain's Boris Johnson is known for his colourful love life but the accusation he grabbed a young woman's thigh when he was a magazine editor risks a scandal as he seeks to unite his party over Brexit.

Britain's Boris Johnson is known for his colourful love life but the accusation he grabbed a young woman's thigh when he was a magazine editor risks a scandal as he seeks to unite his party over Brexit. The prime minister, who is attending his Conservative party's conference in Manchester, northwest England, is accused of giving a female journalist's leg "a squeeze" while at a private lunch 20 years ago. Johnson never comments on his personal life but his spokesman issued a clear denial -- an acknowledgement that the claim is more serious than gossip about his affairs. It follows accusations that Johnson gave special access to a US businesswoman with whom he is alleged to have had a relationship when he was mayor of London. He denies any impropriety, but it is yet another headache after his defeats in parliament and the courts over his pledge to leave the EU on October 31, come what may. Powerful men In an article published in The Sunday Times, journalist Charlotte Edwardes described a boozy lunch in the offices of The Spectator magazine around two decades ago, when Johnson was editor. She was sitting next to him and wrote that "under the table I feel Johnson's hand on my thigh. He gives it a squeeze". "His hand is high up my leg and he has enough inner flesh beneath his fingers to make me sit suddenly upright." She said a woman she spoke with after the dinner, who was sitting on Johnson's other side, said the same thing happened to her. Johnson was married at the time to his second wife. They are now divorced and he currently lives with his girlfriend Carrie Symonds. Downing Street said Edwardes' claim was "untrue", and the prime minister himself denied it in a television interview, while refusing to comment further. But health minister Matt Hancock said he knew Edwardes well, and "I entirely trust what she has to say". Former Conservative minister Justine Greening, who is now an independent MP, said the claim was "deeply concerning". It went "to the heart of this question about character and integrity of people in public life and what standards the electorate have a right to expect," she told BBC radio. The allegation comes two years after defence minister Michael Fallon quit following revelations he tried to kiss a journalist. Opposition Labour lawmaker Dawn Butler added: "What is it about powerful men feeling entitled to harass women? Boris Johnson has serious questions to answer." A feminist Yet at the party conference in Manchester, many delegates were sanguine -- while a number of female Conservatives offered their support for Johnson. "He's a decent person. I think he cares a great deal about women and girls," former defence minister Penny Mordaunt told a fringe meeting. MP Rachel Maclean highlighted Johnson's campaigning against female genital mutilation, declaring him "a feminist". Fleur Butler, national chairman of the Conservative Women's Organisation, told AFP the claim related to a time when "the world was a different place". She said she did not know if the claim was true but added: "It's really important though for the party to say that we do not accept this type of behaviour moving forward." Brexit first Johnson is no stranger to personal scandal, most recently over a noisy row with Symonds that resulted in police being called to their flat in south London. There are concerns that the latest claims could damage Johnson's standing with women, who are already less likely to support him. A YouGov survey this week found 44 per cent of men thought Johnson was likeable, compared to 34 per cent of women. One female Conservative member in her 20s, speaking on condition of anonymity, told AFP: "I think it's a really big issue. "There are still some older members of the Conservative party who don't treat women as they should." But for many in Manchester, the biggest issue remains Brexit -- and they believe Johnson is the man who can deliver that, regardless of anything else. "We need to get somebody to get Brexit done," Margaret Dane, a retired Tory party member, told AFP. As for the squeezing allegation, she added: "I'll just have to discount the fact that it might be the truth." Others dismissed it as yet another story "dredged up" to discredit the prime minister. "It should be looked into. But so much is coming out, I think people are getting immune to it," said 48-year-old councillor Julian Goodrich.

British PM Boris Johnson on defensive again over groping claim

British Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-supreme-court-ruling-could-throw-boris-johnsons-brexit-plan-into-more-disarray-251621">Boris&nbsp;Johnson</a>&nbsp;called for the immediate&nbsp;release&nbsp;of Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe and other&nbsp;dual&nbsp;nationals&nbsp;imprisoned&nbsp;in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rouhani-says-iran-resists-sanctions-drives-us-desperate-251461">Iran</a> during a meeting with&nbsp;Iran's&nbsp;President Hassan&nbsp;Rouhani&nbsp;in New York on Tuesday, a Downing Street spokesperson said in a statement.

Johnson&nbsp;also "raised our deep concern about&nbsp;Iran's&nbsp;destabilising activity in the region, including the attacks on the Aramco oil facilities, and insisted this must stop," the spokesperson said. He stressed support for the Iran nuclear deal and the need for dialogue, "including on a comprehensive successor deal."

In the meanwhile, French President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-relations-with-macron-outstanding-225049">Emmanuel Macron </a>leader has been pushing to defuse tensions between Washington and Tehran over the last few weeks, especially after an attack on Saudi oil facilities on Sept 14. that the United States, Europe, and Saudi Arabia have blamed on&nbsp;Iran.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson called for the immediate release of Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe and other dual nationals imprisoned in Iran during a meeting with Iran's President Hassan Rouhani in New York on Tuesday, a Downing Street spokesperson said in a statement.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson called for the immediate release of Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe and other dual nationals imprisoned in Iran during a meeting with Iran's President Hassan Rouhani in New York on Tuesday, a Downing Street spokesperson said in a statement. Johnson also "raised our deep concern about Iran's destabilising activity in the region, including the attacks on the Aramco oil facilities, and insisted this must stop," the spokesperson said. He stressed support for the Iran nuclear deal and the need for dialogue, "including on a comprehensive successor deal." In the meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron leader has been pushing to defuse tensions between Washington and Tehran over the last few weeks, especially after an attack on Saudi oil facilities on Sept 14. that the United States, Europe, and Saudi Arabia have blamed on Iran.

Britain's Johnson urges Rouhani to release imprisoned dual nationals

Six weeks after he took office and six weeks before he is due to lead Britain out of the European Union, Prime Minister Boris Johnson is to meet Jean-Claude Junker.

On Monday, after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/underfire-pm-calls-up-hulk-claims-huge-brexit-progress-249824">comparing himself to berserk comic book super-smasher Hulk</a>, the British leader will enjoy a genteel working lunch with the EU Commission president.

Downing Street has confidently billed the Luxembourg visit as part of efforts to negotiate an orderly divorce from the union before an October 17 EU summit.

But Brussels has played down talk of a breakthrough, insisting Johnson has yet to suggest any "legally operable" proposal to revise a previous withdrawal accord.

Chief EU negotiator Michel Barnier, who will join the leaders for their talks in Juncker's native Grand Duchy, has said he has "no reason to be optimistic".

And the European Parliament will this week vote on a resolution rejecting Johnson's demand that the so-called "Irish backstop" clause be stripped from the deal.

Johnson insists this measure, which temporarily keeps the UK in the EU customs union, has to go if he is to bring the agreement back to the House of Commons.

But the accord will also have to win the support of the other 27 EU leaders and the European Parliament if Britain is not to crash out with no deal on October 31.

And Johnson, in turn, boasts that he would rather be "dead in a ditch" than ask his European counterparts to postpone Brexit for a third time into next year.

It is difficult, then, to see what might come from Monday's lunch, which will be held behind closed doors with no plan for a joint statement afterwards.

Nevertheless, before leaving London, Johnson told the Mail on Sunday he was "very confident" of getting a new deal before the October 17 summit.

'Hulk smash!'

"A huge amount of progress is being made," he said, referring to "technical talks" on border procedures between his Brexit adviser David Frost and Barnier's team.&nbsp;

Johnson compared himself to Marvel comics hero Hulk, the rampaging mutant alter-ego of a mild-mannered nuclear scientist whose catchphrase is "Hulk smash!"&nbsp;

"The madder Hulk gets, the stronger Hulk gets and he always escaped, no matter how tightly bound in he seemed to be," Johnson told the paper.

Johnson's strategy faces opposition at home, where rebel and opposition MPs have passed a law aimed at forcing him to seek a Brexit delay.

Britain's Supreme Court will rule this week on a bid to overturn Johnson's decision to suspend parliament and limit time to debate the crisis.

And on Wednesday, Barnier will address the European Parliament session in Strasbourg as MEPs vote to reaffirm and reinforce the EU Brexit stance.

Barnier previously briefed the leaders of political groups in the assembly on Thursday last week, and he had a downbeat message.

"I can't objectively tell you whether the contacts we have undertaken with Mr. Johnson's government will lead to an agreement between now and mid-October," he said.

After that meeting, the speaker of the parliament David Sassoli unveiled the Brexit resolution, which would insist that the backstop remain in the deal.

"The resolution says that if there is a no-deal departure, then that is entirely the responsibility of the United Kingdom," he said.

After his lunch with Juncker, Johnson is due to meet Luxembourg's Prime Minister Xavier Bettel. The pair will hold a joint news conference. &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Six weeks after he took office and six weeks before he is due to lead Britain out of the European Union, Prime Minister Boris Johnson is to meet Jean-Claude Junker.

Six weeks after he took office and six weeks before he is due to lead Britain out of the European Union, Prime Minister Boris Johnson is to meet Jean-Claude Junker. On Monday, after comparing himself to berserk comic book super-smasher Hulk, the British leader will enjoy a genteel working lunch with the EU Commission president. Downing Street has confidently billed the Luxembourg visit as part of efforts to negotiate an orderly divorce from the union before an October 17 EU summit. But Brussels has played down talk of a breakthrough, insisting Johnson has yet to suggest any "legally operable" proposal to revise a previous withdrawal accord. Chief EU negotiator Michel Barnier, who will join the leaders for their talks in Juncker's native Grand Duchy, has said he has "no reason to be optimistic". And the European Parliament will this week vote on a resolution rejecting Johnson's demand that the so-called "Irish backstop" clause be stripped from the deal. Johnson insists this measure, which temporarily keeps the UK in the EU customs union, has to go if he is to bring the agreement back to the House of Commons. But the accord will also have to win the support of the other 27 EU leaders and the European Parliament if Britain is not to crash out with no deal on October 31. And Johnson, in turn, boasts that he would rather be "dead in a ditch" than ask his European counterparts to postpone Brexit for a third time into next year. It is difficult, then, to see what might come from Monday's lunch, which will be held behind closed doors with no plan for a joint statement afterwards. Nevertheless, before leaving London, Johnson told the Mail on Sunday he was "very confident" of getting a new deal before the October 17 summit. 'Hulk smash!' "A huge amount of progress is being made," he said, referring to "technical talks" on border procedures between his Brexit adviser David Frost and Barnier's team. Johnson compared himself to Marvel comics hero Hulk, the rampaging mutant alter-ego of a mild-mannered nuclear scientist whose catchphrase is "Hulk smash!" "The madder Hulk gets, the stronger Hulk gets and he always escaped, no matter how tightly bound in he seemed to be," Johnson told the paper. Johnson's strategy faces opposition at home, where rebel and opposition MPs have passed a law aimed at forcing him to seek a Brexit delay. Britain's Supreme Court will rule this week on a bid to overturn Johnson's decision to suspend parliament and limit time to debate the crisis. And on Wednesday, Barnier will address the European Parliament session in Strasbourg as MEPs vote to reaffirm and reinforce the EU Brexit stance. Barnier previously briefed the leaders of political groups in the assembly on Thursday last week, and he had a downbeat message. "I can't objectively tell you whether the contacts we have undertaken with Mr. Johnson's government will lead to an agreement between now and mid-October," he said. After that meeting, the speaker of the parliament David Sassoli unveiled the Brexit resolution, which would insist that the backstop remain in the deal. "The resolution says that if there is a no-deal departure, then that is entirely the responsibility of the United Kingdom," he said. After his lunch with Juncker, Johnson is due to meet Luxembourg's Prime Minister Xavier Bettel. The pair will hold a joint news conference.

Boris Johnson the Brexit 'Hulk' to meet EU's Jean-Claude Junker

House of Commons Speaker John Bercow, champion of Britain's parliament in its move to rein in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-boris-johnson-will-go-to-eu-to-seek-a-deal-not-a-brexit-delay-finance-minister-248420">Prime Minister Boris Johnson</a> over Brexit, said on Monday he would stand down, issuing a warning to the government not to "degrade" parliament.

Bercow, known for his thundering cries of "Order! Order!" and his scathing put-downs of misbehaving lawmakers, has been the target of fury from Johnson's government, which accused him of breaking rules to let lawmakers force a delay to Britain's exit from the EU.

With less than two months until Britain's most important political decision in decades, Bercow, whose position is formally meant to be neutral, helped give lawmakers the chance to strip control of the outcome away from the government.

Last week, lawmakers defeated Johnson to pass a law ordering Johnson to seek a delay from the October&nbsp;31 Brexit deadline.

In the speech announcing his plan to resign, Bercow fixed his gaze on the benches where ministers sit and delivered a direct warning to the government: "We degrade this parliament at our peril."

Bercow, 56, was given a standing ovation from many members of the lower house as he announced his plan to stand down in the coming weeks - particularly by those on the opposition benches.

"When the history books come to be written, you will be described as one of the great reforming speakers of the House of Commons," said opposition Labour Party lawmaker Hilary Benn, who led the passage of the law to try and stop a no-deal Brexit.

"In every decision, you have made, you have put one consideration above everything else: Your wish to enable the House of Commons to discuss matters and to have a view."

A day earlier, Johnson's business minister, Andrea Leadsom, had called Bercow's decision to give lawmakers a chance to pass legislation against the wishes of the government a "flagrant abuse" of the parliamentary process.

"It acts in complete disregard to the will of the people, not just on Brexit, but on whom they have chosen to govern them," she wrote in the Mail on Sunday. "The Speaker hasn’t just bent the rules, he has broken them."

In Monday's speech, Bercow said he would not contest the next election if parliament voted later on Monday in favour of calling one.

If, as expected, lawmakers reject the government's attempt to call an election, he said he would quit on October 31,&nbsp;the Brexit deadline that lawmakers voted last week to postpone.

Bercow has been speaker since 2009, a role traditionally responsible for ensuring decorum during the debate, but which took on unusual power this year when Johnson and his predecessor Theresa May failed to get their Brexit policies past parliament.

In a country with no written constitution and a parliament ruled by convention, it fell to him to interpret rules that normally give the government control over parliament's agenda.

Bercow's cries of "Order! Order!" has travelled around the world in viral video clips, as have his quips.

"Don't tell me, young man, what I can and can't say," he bellowed at one heckler on Monday. "If you're not interested, leave the chamber. I'm not remotely interested in your pettifogging objection, chuntered inelegantly from a sedentary position."

During his ten-year term, he has survived an outcry over expense claims,&nbsp;&nbsp;including costly use of official cars and overseas trips, and has faced allegations of bullying from former members of staff, which he has denied.

Pro-Brexit campaigner Nigel Farage, one of the architects of the decision to leave the European Union, summed up the eurosceptic sentiment in a two-word tweet: "Good Riddance."

House of Commons Speaker John Bercow, champion of Britain's parliament in its move to rein in Prime Minister Boris Johnson over Brexit, said on Monday he would stand down, issuing a warning to the government not to "degrade" parliament.

House of Commons Speaker John Bercow, champion of Britain's parliament in its move to rein in Prime Minister Boris Johnson over Brexit, said on Monday he would stand down, issuing a warning to the government not to "degrade" parliament. Bercow, known for his thundering cries of "Order! Order!" and his scathing put-downs of misbehaving lawmakers, has been the target of fury from Johnson's government, which accused him of breaking rules to let lawmakers force a delay to Britain's exit from the EU. With less than two months until Britain's most important political decision in decades, Bercow, whose position is formally meant to be neutral, helped give lawmakers the chance to strip control of the outcome away from the government. Last week, lawmakers defeated Johnson to pass a law ordering Johnson to seek a delay from the October 31 Brexit deadline. In the speech announcing his plan to resign, Bercow fixed his gaze on the benches where ministers sit and delivered a direct warning to the government: "We degrade this parliament at our peril." Bercow, 56, was given a standing ovation from many members of the lower house as he announced his plan to stand down in the coming weeks - particularly by those on the opposition benches. "When the history books come to be written, you will be described as one of the great reforming speakers of the House of Commons," said opposition Labour Party lawmaker Hilary Benn, who led the passage of the law to try and stop a no-deal Brexit. "In every decision, you have made, you have put one consideration above everything else: Your wish to enable the House of Commons to discuss matters and to have a view." A day earlier, Johnson's business minister, Andrea Leadsom, had called Bercow's decision to give lawmakers a chance to pass legislation against the wishes of the government a "flagrant abuse" of the parliamentary process. "It acts in complete disregard to the will of the people, not just on Brexit, but on whom they have chosen to govern them," she wrote in the Mail on Sunday. "The Speaker hasn’t just bent the rules, he has broken them." In Monday's speech, Bercow said he would not contest the next election if parliament voted later on Monday in favour of calling one. If, as expected, lawmakers reject the government's attempt to call an election, he said he would quit on October 31, the Brexit deadline that lawmakers voted last week to postpone. Bercow has been speaker since 2009, a role traditionally responsible for ensuring decorum during the debate, but which took on unusual power this year when Johnson and his predecessor Theresa May failed to get their Brexit policies past parliament. In a country with no written constitution and a parliament ruled by convention, it fell to him to interpret rules that normally give the government control over parliament's agenda. Bercow's cries of "Order! Order!" has travelled around the world in viral video clips, as have his quips. "Don't tell me, young man, what I can and can't say," he bellowed at one heckler on Monday. "If you're not interested, leave the chamber. I'm not remotely interested in your pettifogging objection, chuntered inelegantly from a sedentary position." During his ten-year term, he has survived an outcry over expense claims, including costly use of official cars and overseas trips, and has faced allegations of bullying from former members of staff, which he has denied. Pro-Brexit campaigner Nigel Farage, one of the architects of the decision to leave the European Union, summed up the eurosceptic sentiment in a two-word tweet: "Good Riddance."

House of Commons Speaker John Bercow to step down

Prime Minister Boris Johnson heads to Scotland on Friday in campaign mode despite failing to call an early election after MPs this week thwarted his hardline Brexit strategy.

Johnson, who will make a fresh attempt next week to force the mid-October snap election, is set to visit a fish market and announce a post-Brexit funding boost for Scottish farmers during a visit to Aberdeenshire, his office said.

He will then stay at Queen Elizabeth II's Balmoral estate and dine with her, an annual weekend-long tradition for prime ministers but one that Johnson has been forced to cut short to a single night due to the political turmoil in Westminster.

Opposition lawmakers and rebels in his ruling Conservative party on Wednesday left Johnson's plans for a no-deal Brexit next month in tatters and then blocked a request for a snap election on October 15.

Under British law, the government requires two-thirds of MPs to support holding such a poll.

The main opposition Labour Party abstained on the proposal, saying parliament must first approve its legislation to prevent Britain leaving the European Union without an agreement on October 31.

The government has said it will make a second attempt to force it through next week.

"What I want to do now is to give the country a choice," Johnson said Thursday during a campaign-style visit to northern England, where he greeted voters and delivered a speech.

His trip to Scotland, where voters backed remaining in the EU in the 2016 referendum and the Tories face a struggle to hold 13 parliamentary seats there in any upcoming election, appears part of a strategy to pressure Labour to cave into his demand.&nbsp;

'Dead in a ditch'

The House of Lords on Friday is set to approve the legislation, which compels Johnson to seek a three-month extension from Brussels if he cannot agree on a divorce deal at an EU summit on October 17-18.

It is then expected to become law on Monday.

Johnson said Thursday he would "rather be dead in a ditch" than delay Brexit and is pushing for the election in the hope of winning a fresh mandate for his approach.

Lawmakers rushed the bill through parliament ahead of a five-week shutdown the prime minister controversially ordered last month which was widely seen as a pre-emptive attempt to prevent such legislation.

The decision to suspend parliament provoked uproar from Johnson's critics, who called it a "constitutional outrage", and several legal challenges.

Three High Court judges are expected to rule Friday on its legality after Gina Miller, a businesswoman and leading anti-Brexit campaigner, applied for a judicial review.

A judge in Scotland ruled in favour of Johnson on Wednesday in a separate challenge.

'The national interest'

Britain's bitter three-year political crisis over leaving the EU appears headed for new depths of acrimony as the divided country's delayed departure deadline approaches.

Brexit was originally scheduled for March 29 but was postponed amid political gridlock over the terms of the country's divorce from the bloc after almost half a century of deepening ties.

Johnson, who took power in July, argues that his threat to leave with or without a deal will force EU leaders to agree better terms.

Opponents say the prime minister is playing with fire amid predictions of the economic damage such a disorderly breakup could cause.

However, Johnson has been left in limbo with his parliamentary majority destroyed by a Conservative rebellion which saw&nbsp;21 people nearly all former ministers suspended from the party.&nbsp;

He was dealt a further personal blow Thursday when his brother Jo said he was quitting his junior ministerial role and would not contest his seat in parliament again.

"I've been torn between family loyalty and the national interest it's an unresolvable tension &amp; time for others to take on my roles," Jo Johnson tweeted.

Amid the unfolding political drama, the British pound rose during the day, hitting a one-month peak against the dollar, with currency traders seeing reduced prospects of a "no-deal" Brexit.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson heads to Scotland on Friday in campaign mode despite failing to call an early election after MPs this week thwarted his hardline Brexit strategy.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson heads to Scotland on Friday in campaign mode despite failing to call an early election after MPs this week thwarted his hardline Brexit strategy. Johnson, who will make a fresh attempt next week to force the mid-October snap election, is set to visit a fish market and announce a post-Brexit funding boost for Scottish farmers during a visit to Aberdeenshire, his office said. He will then stay at Queen Elizabeth II's Balmoral estate and dine with her, an annual weekend-long tradition for prime ministers but one that Johnson has been forced to cut short to a single night due to the political turmoil in Westminster. Opposition lawmakers and rebels in his ruling Conservative party on Wednesday left Johnson's plans for a no-deal Brexit next month in tatters and then blocked a request for a snap election on October 15. Under British law, the government requires two-thirds of MPs to support holding such a poll. The main opposition Labour Party abstained on the proposal, saying parliament must first approve its legislation to prevent Britain leaving the European Union without an agreement on October 31. The government has said it will make a second attempt to force it through next week. "What I want to do now is to give the country a choice," Johnson said Thursday during a campaign-style visit to northern England, where he greeted voters and delivered a speech. His trip to Scotland, where voters backed remaining in the EU in the 2016 referendum and the Tories face a struggle to hold 13 parliamentary seats there in any upcoming election, appears part of a strategy to pressure Labour to cave into his demand. 'Dead in a ditch' The House of Lords on Friday is set to approve the legislation, which compels Johnson to seek a three-month extension from Brussels if he cannot agree on a divorce deal at an EU summit on October 17-18. It is then expected to become law on Monday. Johnson said Thursday he would "rather be dead in a ditch" than delay Brexit and is pushing for the election in the hope of winning a fresh mandate for his approach. Lawmakers rushed the bill through parliament ahead of a five-week shutdown the prime minister controversially ordered last month which was widely seen as a pre-emptive attempt to prevent such legislation. The decision to suspend parliament provoked uproar from Johnson's critics, who called it a "constitutional outrage", and several legal challenges. Three High Court judges are expected to rule Friday on its legality after Gina Miller, a businesswoman and leading anti-Brexit campaigner, applied for a judicial review. A judge in Scotland ruled in favour of Johnson on Wednesday in a separate challenge. 'The national interest' Britain's bitter three-year political crisis over leaving the EU appears headed for new depths of acrimony as the divided country's delayed departure deadline approaches. Brexit was originally scheduled for March 29 but was postponed amid political gridlock over the terms of the country's divorce from the bloc after almost half a century of deepening ties. Johnson, who took power in July, argues that his threat to leave with or without a deal will force EU leaders to agree better terms. Opponents say the prime minister is playing with fire amid predictions of the economic damage such a disorderly breakup could cause. However, Johnson has been left in limbo with his parliamentary majority destroyed by a Conservative rebellion which saw 21 people nearly all former ministers suspended from the party. He was dealt a further personal blow Thursday when his brother Jo said he was quitting his junior ministerial role and would not contest his seat in parliament again. "I've been torn between family loyalty and the national interest it's an unresolvable tension & time for others to take on my roles," Jo Johnson tweeted. Amid the unfolding political drama, the British pound rose during the day, hitting a one-month peak against the dollar, with currency traders seeing reduced prospects of a "no-deal" Brexit.

Boris Johnson in election mode as he visits Scotland after Brexit setbacks

British opposition parties will discuss on Friday how to respond to Boris Johnson's bid to call a snap election after the prime minister said he would rather die in a ditch than delay the planned October 31 departure from the European Union.

As the United Kingdom spins towards an election, Brexit remains up in the air more than three years after Britons voted to leave the bloc in a 2016 referendum. Options range from a turbulent 'no-deal' exit to abandoning the whole endeavour.

British lawmakers will on Monday hold another vote on a motion on whether to hold an early election, the leader of the House of Commons, Jacob Rees-Mogg said.

But opposition parties, including the Labour Party, want to ensure that an election does not allow Johnson to lead the United Kingdom out of the EU without a deal on October 31.

Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn will hold a conference call with other opposition parties on Friday, a Labour spokesman said. Johnson on Thursday said he would rather be "dead in a ditch" than delay Brexit.

Former Prime Minister John Major said Johnson should fire Dominic Cummings, the advisor behind his high-stakes Brexit strategy.

When asked about Major's call, Cummings told Reuters, "Really? Trust the people"

British opposition parties will discuss on Friday how to respond to Boris Johnson's bid to call a snap election after the prime minister said he would rather die in a ditch than delay the planned October 31 departure from the European Union.

British opposition parties will discuss on Friday how to respond to Boris Johnson's bid to call a snap election after the prime minister said he would rather die in a ditch than delay the planned October 31 departure from the European Union. As the United Kingdom spins towards an election, Brexit remains up in the air more than three years after Britons voted to leave the bloc in a 2016 referendum. Options range from a turbulent 'no-deal' exit to abandoning the whole endeavour. British lawmakers will on Monday hold another vote on a motion on whether to hold an early election, the leader of the House of Commons, Jacob Rees-Mogg said. But opposition parties, including the Labour Party, want to ensure that an election does not allow Johnson to lead the United Kingdom out of the EU without a deal on October 31. Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn will hold a conference call with other opposition parties on Friday, a Labour spokesman said. Johnson on Thursday said he would rather be "dead in a ditch" than delay Brexit. Former Prime Minister John Major said Johnson should fire Dominic Cummings, the advisor behind his high-stakes Brexit strategy. When asked about Major's call, Cummings told Reuters, "Really? Trust the people"

British opposition parties discuss PM Boris Johnson's Brexit election gamble

British Prime Minister<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-government-gives-up-trying-to-stop-brexit-delay-bill-in-parliament-247721"> Boris Johnson</a> was on Thursday kicking off what is in effect an election campaign, casting an alliance of opposition parties trying to block a 'no-deal' Brexit as defeatists surrendering to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-government-gives-up-trying-to-stop-brexit-delay-bill-in-parliament-247721">European Union</a>.

As the United Kingdom spins towards an election, Brexit remains up in the air more than three years after Britons voted to leave the bloc in a 2016 referendum. Options range from a turbulent 'no-deal' exit to abandoning the whole endeavour.

After wresting control of the lower house of parliament on Wednesday, an alliance of opposition parties and rebels expelled from Johnson's Conservative party voted to force him to seek a three-month delay to Brexit rather than leaving without a deal on October 31, the date now set in law.

Behind the sound and the fury of the Brexit crisis, an election now beckons for a polarised country.

The main choices on offer are Johnson's radical insistence on leaving the EU on October 31, come what may, and Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn's hard-left socialist vision, coupled with a promise of a fresh referendum with an option to stay in the EU.

"Boris will argue that it is now time for the people to decide after parliament has failed them, so we can resolve this once and for all," a spokesman for the prime minister said.

"Jeremy Corbyn continues not only to block Brexit but is now also stopping the people from having their say by refusing a general election."

The opposition Labour Party cast Johnson's language - including calling Corbyn a "chicken" - as pathetic, said he was trying to act like US&nbsp;President Donald Trump, and compared him to a 3-year-old toddler having a tantrum.

An election adds a new twist to a Brexit crisis that has for three years overshadowed European Union affairs, eroded Britain's reputation as a stable pillar of the West and seen sterling twitch in tune to the probability of a 'no-deal' exit.

Asked if Brexit would happen on October 31, Johnson's senior adviser Dominic Cummings told Reuters: "Trust the people."

Against the dollar, the pound fell 0.3 per cent to $1.2211, after jumping 1.4 per cent on Wednesday in the sense that the prospect of a 'no-deal' exit had receded. UBS Global Wealth Management said sterling could rally to $1.30 if Brexit was delayed until January 2020 and an election was held after October.&nbsp;

'Trust the people'

Johnson, the face of the 2016 Vote Leave campaign, has pushed for an election on October 15, two weeks before the United Kingdom is due to leave the EU, though opposition parties are debating which date they would accept.

"We are saying, yeah, bring on a general election, of course," said John McDonnell, the Labour Party's second most powerful man.

"We will ensure that happens after we have got the legislation to protect against a 'no-deal' Brexit. But we will consult and do it on at the date on which we will think will have the maximum advantage against a 'no-deal'," he said.

While sterling rose on parliament's bid to block a no-deal exit, an election before Brexit would allow him, if he won, to repeal the blocking bill, which was passed by 329-300 and then 327-299 in the House of Commons on Wednesday. The law will pass the upper house, the Lords, by Friday evening.

Johnson's finance minister, Sajid Javid, opened up the possibility of a change to the October 15 date but said the government could strike a renegotiated Brexit deal with Brussels and get it through parliament before October 31.

But the EU, and Germany and France in particular, have repeatedly called on Britain to make specific proposals on how it wants to change the agreement struck by Johnson's predecessor, Theresa May, in November.

Diplomats said an election campaign would halt any Brexit talks with the EU and expressed frustration with the turmoil of British politics at such an important juncture in European history.

"The UK side continues to produce chaos and it is very hard to predict anything," said one EU diplomat.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson was on Thursday kicking off what is in effect an election campaign, casting an alliance of opposition parties trying to block a 'no-deal' Brexit as defeatists surrendering to the European Union.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson was on Thursday kicking off what is in effect an election campaign, casting an alliance of opposition parties trying to block a 'no-deal' Brexit as defeatists surrendering to the European Union. As the United Kingdom spins towards an election, Brexit remains up in the air more than three years after Britons voted to leave the bloc in a 2016 referendum. Options range from a turbulent 'no-deal' exit to abandoning the whole endeavour. After wresting control of the lower house of parliament on Wednesday, an alliance of opposition parties and rebels expelled from Johnson's Conservative party voted to force him to seek a three-month delay to Brexit rather than leaving without a deal on October 31, the date now set in law. Behind the sound and the fury of the Brexit crisis, an election now beckons for a polarised country. The main choices on offer are Johnson's radical insistence on leaving the EU on October 31, come what may, and Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn's hard-left socialist vision, coupled with a promise of a fresh referendum with an option to stay in the EU. "Boris will argue that it is now time for the people to decide after parliament has failed them, so we can resolve this once and for all," a spokesman for the prime minister said. "Jeremy Corbyn continues not only to block Brexit but is now also stopping the people from having their say by refusing a general election." The opposition Labour Party cast Johnson's language - including calling Corbyn a "chicken" - as pathetic, said he was trying to act like US President Donald Trump, and compared him to a 3-year-old toddler having a tantrum. An election adds a new twist to a Brexit crisis that has for three years overshadowed European Union affairs, eroded Britain's reputation as a stable pillar of the West and seen sterling twitch in tune to the probability of a 'no-deal' exit. Asked if Brexit would happen on October 31, Johnson's senior adviser Dominic Cummings told Reuters: "Trust the people." Against the dollar, the pound fell 0.3 per cent to $1.2211, after jumping 1.4 per cent on Wednesday in the sense that the prospect of a 'no-deal' exit had receded. UBS Global Wealth Management said sterling could rally to $1.30 if Brexit was delayed until January 2020 and an election was held after October. 'Trust the people' Johnson, the face of the 2016 Vote Leave campaign, has pushed for an election on October 15, two weeks before the United Kingdom is due to leave the EU, though opposition parties are debating which date they would accept. "We are saying, yeah, bring on a general election, of course," said John McDonnell, the Labour Party's second most powerful man. "We will ensure that happens after we have got the legislation to protect against a 'no-deal' Brexit. But we will consult and do it on at the date on which we will think will have the maximum advantage against a 'no-deal'," he said. While sterling rose on parliament's bid to block a no-deal exit, an election before Brexit would allow him, if he won, to repeal the blocking bill, which was passed by 329-300 and then 327-299 in the House of Commons on Wednesday. The law will pass the upper house, the Lords, by Friday evening. Johnson's finance minister, Sajid Javid, opened up the possibility of a change to the October 15 date but said the government could strike a renegotiated Brexit deal with Brussels and get it through parliament before October 31. But the EU, and Germany and France in particular, have repeatedly called on Britain to make specific proposals on how it wants to change the agreement struck by Johnson's predecessor, Theresa May, in November. Diplomats said an election campaign would halt any Brexit talks with the EU and expressed frustration with the turmoil of British politics at such an important juncture in European history. "The UK side continues to produce chaos and it is very hard to predict anything," said one EU diplomat.

British PM Boris Johnson kicks off election campaign as parliament blocks no-deal Brexit

The British Parliament on Wednesday voted to prevent <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-row-uk-pm-johnson-proposes-early-election-on-october-15-247599">Prime Minister Boris Johnson</a> taking Britain out of the European Union without a deal as the British prime minister sought an election just weeks before Brexit.

After wresting control of the parliamentary agenda from Johnson six weeks into his premiership, lawmakers voted 329-300 in the second, most important, reading of a bill that would force the government to request a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/uk-business-activity-contracts-over-brexit-turmoil-raises-recession-risk-247628">three-month Brexit delay </a>rather than leave without a divorce agreement.

Johnson cast the legislative move in the House of Commons as an attempt to surrender to the EU over Brexit and demanded an October 15 snap election, a step that could free him of any constraints if he won a majority.

The second most powerful man in the Labour Party, John McDonnell, said the no-deal blocking legislation had to get assent from Queen Elizabeth, putting the law onto the statute book, before the party would agree to an election. This could, in theory, happen next Monday.

"We're ... not going to be tricked or conned by Johnson so we're looking at every way in which, having secured the legislation, he can't wriggle out of abiding by the law and implementing it," McDonnell said.

Parliament's bid to tie Johnson's hands leaves Brexit up in the air, with possible outcomes ranging from a turbulent no-deal EU exit to abandoning the whole endeavour - both outcomes that would be unacceptable to swathes of the United Kingdom's voters.

In a heated parliamentary debate, Johnson said that if Corbyn voted in favour of a draft law against the government's Brexit strategy then he should also support an election to "allow the people of this country to have their view".

The Conservative leader said he wanted an early general election on October 15 if lawmakers vote against him again on Wednesday and force him to seek a three-month Brexit extension from Brussels with a new law.

The European Commission also on Wednesday said the risk of a no-deal Brexit had increased, warning that it saw no alternative to the current withdrawal deal. 
&nbsp;

The British Parliament on Wednesday voted to prevent Prime Minister Boris Johnson taking Britain out of the European Union without a deal as the British prime minister sought an election just weeks before Brexit.

The British Parliament on Wednesday voted to prevent Prime Minister Boris Johnson taking Britain out of the European Union without a deal as the British prime minister sought an election just weeks before Brexit. After wresting control of the parliamentary agenda from Johnson six weeks into his premiership, lawmakers voted 329-300 in the second, most important, reading of a bill that would force the government to request a three-month Brexit delay rather than leave without a divorce agreement. Johnson cast the legislative move in the House of Commons as an attempt to surrender to the EU over Brexit and demanded an October 15 snap election, a step that could free him of any constraints if he won a majority. The second most powerful man in the Labour Party, John McDonnell, said the no-deal blocking legislation had to get assent from Queen Elizabeth, putting the law onto the statute book, before the party would agree to an election. This could, in theory, happen next Monday. "We're ... not going to be tricked or conned by Johnson so we're looking at every way in which, having secured the legislation, he can't wriggle out of abiding by the law and implementing it," McDonnell said. Parliament's bid to tie Johnson's hands leaves Brexit up in the air, with possible outcomes ranging from a turbulent no-deal EU exit to abandoning the whole endeavour - both outcomes that would be unacceptable to swathes of the United Kingdom's voters. In a heated parliamentary debate, Johnson said that if Corbyn voted in favour of a draft law against the government's Brexit strategy then he should also support an election to "allow the people of this country to have their view". The Conservative leader said he wanted an early general election on October 15 if lawmakers vote against him again on Wednesday and force him to seek a three-month Brexit extension from Brussels with a new law. The European Commission also on Wednesday said the risk of a no-deal Brexit had increased, warning that it saw no alternative to the current withdrawal deal.

British lawmakers vote to block no-deal Brexit in fresh blow to PM Johnson

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-johnson-loses-parliamentary-majority-ahead-of-brexit-vote-247433">British lawmakers defeated Boris Johnson in parliament</a> on Tuesday in a bid to prevent him taking Britain out of the EU without a divorce agreement, prompting the prime minister to announce that he would immediately push for a snap election.

The government was defeated by 328 to 301 on a motion put forward by opposition parties and rebel lawmakers in Johnson`s party - who had been warned they would be kicked out of the Conservative Party if they defied the government.

More than three years after the United Kingdom voted in a referendum to leave the European Union, the defeat leaves the course of Brexit unresolved, with possible outcomes still ranging from a turbulent `no-deal` exit to abandoning the whole endeavour.

Watch-- Brexit: Johnson government loses working majority ahead of crucial vote

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Tuesday`s victory is only the first hurdle for lawmakers, enabling them to take control of parliamentary business.

On Wednesday they will seek to pass a law forcing Johnson to ask the EU to delay Brexit - for a third time - until January&nbsp;31 unless he has a deal approved by parliament beforehand on the terms and manner of the exit.

It puts Johnson in a similar bind to that faced by his predecessor Theresa May, who failed three times to get the backing of lawmakers for the Withdrawal Agreement that she had negotiated with the EU. Johnson took over from her six weeks ago with a promise that his more robust approach would force a better deal out of the EU that would satisfy parliament.&nbsp;

The 21 Conservative rebels who now face expulsion from the party include Nicholas Soames, the grandson of Britain`s World War Two leader Winston Churchill, and two former finance ministers - Philip Hammond and Kenneth Clarke.&nbsp;

"I don`t want an election, but if MPs vote tomorrow to stop negotiations and compel another pointless delay to Brexit, potentially for years, then that would be the only way to resolve this," Johnson told parliament after the vote.

"I can confirm that we are tonight tabling a motion under the Fixed Term Parliament Act."

Economic Disruption

In an historic showdown between prime minister and parliament, Johnson`s opponents said they wanted to prevent him playing Russian roulette with a country once touted as a confident pillar of Western economic and political stability.

They argue that nothing can justify the risk of a `no-deal` Brexit that would cut economic ties overnight with Britain`s biggest export market and inevitably bring huge economic dislocation.

Johnson cast the challenge as an attempt to force Britain to surrender to the EU just as he hopes to secure concessions on the terms of the divorce, helped by the threat to walk out without one. Ahead of the vote, he said would never accept another delay to Brexit beyond October&nbsp;31.&nbsp;

"Parliament is on the brink of wrecking any deal we might be able to strike in Brussels," Johnson said. "Because tomorrow’s bill would hand control of the negotiations to the EU."

Johnson`s government will now seek to hold a vote on Wednesday to approve an early election, most likely on October 14. This would pit the avowed Brexiteer against Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, a veteran socialist.&nbsp;

In the Brexit maelstrom, though, it was unclear whether opposition parties would support such a move - which requires the support of two-thirds of the 650-seat House of Commons.

Corbyn has long demanded an election as the best way out of the crisis, but many of those seeking to prevent a `no-deal` Brexit say Johnson could time the poll to ensure that parliament cannot prevent an October 31 departure - with or without a deal.

After the vote, Corbyn told Johnson that he must get the Brexit delay bill that will be discussed on Wednesday passed before trying to call an election. 
Divided Kingdom.

The 2016 Brexit referendum showed a United Kingdom divided about much more than the European Union, and has fuelled soul-searching about everything from secession and immigration to capitalism, empire and modern Britishness.

It has also triggered civil war inside both of Britain`s main political parties as dozens of lawmakers put what they see as the United Kingdom`s fate above that of party loyalty.

Just as Johnson began speaking, he lost his working majority in parliament when one of his own Conservative lawmakers, Phillip Lee, crossed the floor of the House of Commons to join the pro-EU Liberal Democrats.

The pound, which has gyrated to the twists and turns of Brexit since the 2016 referendum and is highly sensitive to the prospect of a `no-deal` exit, had briefly dipped as low as $1.1959 before the vote in parliament. Barring a minutes-long "flash crash" in October 2016, sterling has not regularly traded at such low levels since 1985.&nbsp;

Fears of a `no-deal` Brexit were rising elsewhere.

The European Commission said such a scenario was a "very distinct possibility" and French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said it was the most likely scenario.

In a document seen by Reuters, the European Commission set out proposals to be published on Wednesday to provide financial help for EU businesses, workers and farmers if Britain crashes out of the bloc without any agreement.

It restated its view that a `no-deal` divorce would hit the British economy much harder than that of the EU.

The UN trade agency UNCTAD said it would cost Britain at least $16 billion in lost exports to the EU, plus a further substantial sum in indirect costs.

The US investment bank JPMorgan said an election would make a no-deal Brexit more likely.

British lawmakers defeated Boris Johnson in parliament on Tuesday in a bid to prevent him taking Britain out of the EU without a divorce agreement, prompting the prime minister to announce that he would immediately push for a snap election.

British lawmakers defeated Boris Johnson in parliament on Tuesday in a bid to prevent him taking Britain out of the EU without a divorce agreement, prompting the prime minister to announce that he would immediately push for a snap election. The government was defeated by 328 to 301 on a motion put forward by opposition parties and rebel lawmakers in Johnson`s party - who had been warned they would be kicked out of the Conservative Party if they defied the government. More than three years after the United Kingdom voted in a referendum to leave the European Union, the defeat leaves the course of Brexit unresolved, with possible outcomes still ranging from a turbulent `no-deal` exit to abandoning the whole endeavour. Watch-- Brexit: Johnson government loses working majority ahead of crucial vote × Tuesday`s victory is only the first hurdle for lawmakers, enabling them to take control of parliamentary business. On Wednesday they will seek to pass a law forcing Johnson to ask the EU to delay Brexit - for a third time - until January 31 unless he has a deal approved by parliament beforehand on the terms and manner of the exit. It puts Johnson in a similar bind to that faced by his predecessor Theresa May, who failed three times to get the backing of lawmakers for the Withdrawal Agreement that she had negotiated with the EU. Johnson took over from her six weeks ago with a promise that his more robust approach would force a better deal out of the EU that would satisfy parliament. The 21 Conservative rebels who now face expulsion from the party include Nicholas Soames, the grandson of Britain`s World War Two leader Winston Churchill, and two former finance ministers - Philip Hammond and Kenneth Clarke. "I don`t want an election, but if MPs vote tomorrow to stop negotiations and compel another pointless delay to Brexit, potentially for years, then that would be the only way to resolve this," Johnson told parliament after the vote. "I can confirm that we are tonight tabling a motion under the Fixed Term Parliament Act." Economic Disruption In an historic showdown between prime minister and parliament, Johnson`s opponents said they wanted to prevent him playing Russian roulette with a country once touted as a confident pillar of Western economic and political stability. They argue that nothing can justify the risk of a `no-deal` Brexit that would cut economic ties overnight with Britain`s biggest export market and inevitably bring huge economic dislocation. Johnson cast the challenge as an attempt to force Britain to surrender to the EU just as he hopes to secure concessions on the terms of the divorce, helped by the threat to walk out without one. Ahead of the vote, he said would never accept another delay to Brexit beyond October 31. "Parliament is on the brink of wrecking any deal we might be able to strike in Brussels," Johnson said. "Because tomorrow’s bill would hand control of the negotiations to the EU." Johnson`s government will now seek to hold a vote on Wednesday to approve an early election, most likely on October 14. This would pit the avowed Brexiteer against Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, a veteran socialist. In the Brexit maelstrom, though, it was unclear whether opposition parties would support such a move - which requires the support of two-thirds of the 650-seat House of Commons. Corbyn has long demanded an election as the best way out of the crisis, but many of those seeking to prevent a `no-deal` Brexit say Johnson could time the poll to ensure that parliament cannot prevent an October 31 departure - with or without a deal. After the vote, Corbyn told Johnson that he must get the Brexit delay bill that will be discussed on Wednesday passed before trying to call an election. Divided Kingdom. The 2016 Brexit referendum showed a United Kingdom divided about much more than the European Union, and has fuelled soul-searching about everything from secession and immigration to capitalism, empire and modern Britishness. It has also triggered civil war inside both of Britain`s main political parties as dozens of lawmakers put what they see as the United Kingdom`s fate above that of party loyalty. Just as Johnson began speaking, he lost his working majority in parliament when one of his own Conservative lawmakers, Phillip Lee, crossed the floor of the House of Commons to join the pro-EU Liberal Democrats. The pound, which has gyrated to the twists and turns of Brexit since the 2016 referendum and is highly sensitive to the prospect of a `no-deal` exit, had briefly dipped as low as $1.1959 before the vote in parliament. Barring a minutes-long "flash crash" in October 2016, sterling has not regularly traded at such low levels since 1985. Fears of a `no-deal` Brexit were rising elsewhere. The European Commission said such a scenario was a "very distinct possibility" and French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said it was the most likely scenario. In a document seen by Reuters, the European Commission set out proposals to be published on Wednesday to provide financial help for EU businesses, workers and farmers if Britain crashes out of the bloc without any agreement. It restated its view that a `no-deal` divorce would hit the British economy much harder than that of the EU. The UN trade agency UNCTAD said it would cost Britain at least $16 billion in lost exports to the EU, plus a further substantial sum in indirect costs. The US investment bank JPMorgan said an election would make a no-deal Brexit more likely.

Opponents of 'no-deal' Brexit defeat PM Johnson, who promises an election

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson challenged his Labour rival Jeremy Corbyn to vote in favour of an early election on October 15 on Wednesday.

In a heated parliamentary debate, Johnson said that if Corbyn voted in favour of a draft law against the government's Brexit strategy then he should also support an election to "allow the people of this country to have their view".

The Conservative leader said he wanted an early general election on<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-lose-16-billion-in-eu-exports-in-case-of-no-deal-brexit-un-247458"> October 15 if lawmakers vote</a> against him again on Wednesday and force him to seek a three-month Brexit extension from Brussels with a new law.

"I will never allow that," Johnson said, calling the draft law a "surrender bill".

Watch Video:

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The European Commission also on Wednesday said the risk of a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-johnson-loses-parliamentary-majority-ahead-of-brexit-vote-247433">no-deal Brexit</a> had increased, warning that it saw no alternative to the current withdrawal deal.

On Tuesday, the British prime minister suffered a defeat in parliament when he lost his wafer thin majority and rebel Conservatives joined opposition MPs in voting against a no-deal departure.

"Humiliation for Johnson as Tory rebels turn against him," read the front page of the left-wing Guardian newspaper, while The Independent wrote: "Johnson loses control".

But political historians say the current fractures - and the response to them - are different.

Johnson got some respite on Wednesday when a court in Scotland ruled that his decision to suspend parliam

The Conservatives, one of the world's oldest and most successful political parties, have long been dominated by divisions over Britain's relationship with Europe.

The issue contributed to Margaret Thatcher's 1990 resignation after 11 years in power, while directly causing ex-premiers David Cameron and Theresa May to step down in the past four years.

Johnson got some respite on Wednesday when a court in Scotland ruled that his decision to suspend parliament for over a month starting next week was lawful.

The 75 parliamentarians behind the legal challenge accused Johnson of curbing opposition attempts to block his Brexit strategy and bring down his government.

A similar case will be heard in London on Thursday.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson challenged his Labour rival Jeremy Corbyn to vote in favour of an early election on October 15 on Wednesday. In a heated parliamentary debate, Johnson said that if Corbyn voted in favour of a draft law against the government's Brexit strategy then he should also support an election to "allow the people of this country to have their view".

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson challenged his Labour rival Jeremy Corbyn to vote in favour of an early election on October 15 on Wednesday. In a heated parliamentary debate, Johnson said that if Corbyn voted in favour of a draft law against the government's Brexit strategy then he should also support an election to "allow the people of this country to have their view". The Conservative leader said he wanted an early general election on October 15 if lawmakers vote against him again on Wednesday and force him to seek a three-month Brexit extension from Brussels with a new law. "I will never allow that," Johnson said, calling the draft law a "surrender bill". Watch Video: The European Commission also on Wednesday said the risk of a no-deal Brexit had increased, warning that it saw no alternative to the current withdrawal deal. On Tuesday, the British prime minister suffered a defeat in parliament when he lost his wafer thin majority and rebel Conservatives joined opposition MPs in voting against a no-deal departure. "Humiliation for Johnson as Tory rebels turn against him," read the front page of the left-wing Guardian newspaper, while The Independent wrote: "Johnson loses control". But political historians say the current fractures - and the response to them - are different. Johnson got some respite on Wednesday when a court in Scotland ruled that his decision to suspend parliam The Conservatives, one of the world's oldest and most successful political parties, have long been dominated by divisions over Britain's relationship with Europe. The issue contributed to Margaret Thatcher's 1990 resignation after 11 years in power, while directly causing ex-premiers David Cameron and Theresa May to step down in the past four years. Johnson got some respite on Wednesday when a court in Scotland ruled that his decision to suspend parliament for over a month starting next week was lawful. The 75 parliamentarians behind the legal challenge accused Johnson of curbing opposition attempts to block his Brexit strategy and bring down his government. A similar case will be heard in London on Thursday.

Brexit row: UK PM Johnson proposes early election on October 15

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-protest-british-pm-johnsons-move-to-suspend-parliament-246915">British Prime Minister Boris Johnson </a>challenged lawmakers to deliver on the Brexit vote and not thwart his plans to take Britain out of the European Union on October 31.

Johnson has pledged to deliver Brexit with or without a deal, but opposition lawmakers - and several lawmakers from Johnson`s Conservatives - want to act to rule out a no-deal Brexit when parliament returns from recess on Tuesday.

Previous votes have indicated a majority in parliament opposing a no-deal Brexit, but in a newspaper interview, Johnson said that backing opposition Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn risked there being no Brexit at all.

"The fundamental choice is this: are you going to side with Jeremy Corbyn and those who want to cancel the referendum? Are you going to side with those who want to scrub the democratic verdict of the people — and plunge this country into chaos?," Johnson told the Sunday Times. 
&nbsp; 
"Or are you going to side with those of us who want to get on, deliver on the mandate of the people and focus with absolute, laser-like precision on the domestic agenda? That’s the choice."

Johnson is seeking to renegotiate his predecessor Theresa May`s Brexit withdrawal agreement so that Britain can leave the bloc with a deal.

But the EU has ruled out Johnson`s key demand - removal of the "backstop" to preserve an open Irish border - unless he finds an alternative which does a similar job.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson challenged lawmakers to deliver on the Brexit vote and not thwart his plans to take Britain out of the European Union on October 31.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson challenged lawmakers to deliver on the Brexit vote and not thwart his plans to take Britain out of the European Union on October 31. Johnson has pledged to deliver Brexit with or without a deal, but opposition lawmakers - and several lawmakers from Johnson`s Conservatives - want to act to rule out a no-deal Brexit when parliament returns from recess on Tuesday. Previous votes have indicated a majority in parliament opposing a no-deal Brexit, but in a newspaper interview, Johnson said that backing opposition Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn risked there being no Brexit at all. "The fundamental choice is this: are you going to side with Jeremy Corbyn and those who want to cancel the referendum? Are you going to side with those who want to scrub the democratic verdict of the people — and plunge this country into chaos?," Johnson told the Sunday Times. "Or are you going to side with those of us who want to get on, deliver on the mandate of the people and focus with absolute, laser-like precision on the domestic agenda? That’s the choice." Johnson is seeking to renegotiate his predecessor Theresa May`s Brexit withdrawal agreement so that Britain can leave the bloc with a deal. But the EU has ruled out Johnson`s key demand - removal of the "backstop" to preserve an open Irish border - unless he finds an alternative which does a similar job.

British PM Boris Johnson challenges lawmakers to deliver Brexit

Johnson wants Parliament suspended till October 14. Is the UK Heading towards a No-Deal Brexit? Know from Mandy Clark

Johnson wants Parliament suspended till October 14

The pound slumped more than one per cent versus the dollar and euro on Wednesday as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-confirms-parliament-suspension-until-october-14-246215">Britain's government moved</a> to extend the suspension of parliament, increasing the likelihood of a no-deal Brexit.

Britain's currency slid 1.1 per cent to $1.2157, while the euro bought 91.23 pence. Sterling later recovered to above $1.22 but remained heavily down on late Tuesday.

The pound's plunge boosted <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uproar-as-british-pm-johnson-cuts-parliament-time-before-brexit-246245">London's benchmark FTSE</a> 100 index, which features numerous multinationals earnings in dollars.

"The pace of sterling's drop demonstrates yet again the currency’s susceptibility to Brexit fears," said Han Tan, market analyst at FXTM trading group.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday announced that the annual suspension of parliament would be extended until October 14 -&nbsp;just two weeks before the UK is set to leave the European Union.

"Such an event would curtail attempts to block a no-deal Brexit within the UK parliament," Tan added.

Anti-Brexit MPs said Johnson's move amounted to a coup and a declaration of war, branding the prime minister a dictator.

The extension "certainly caught markets off-guard and came at a time when the pound had been recouping some of its (previous Brexit-fuelled) losses", noted Craig Erlam, senior market analyst at Oanda.&nbsp;

"The FTSE, as ever, is the unintended beneficiary of the plunge in the currency, given that the vast majority of its earnings are generated outside of the UK."

By contrast, eurozone stock markets were down heavily owing to a stronger euro, and uncertainty over China-US trade talks that weighed also on Asian equities.

A poll Wednesday showed German consumer sentiment is stabilising after three months of decline and despite fears of a looming recession in Europe's biggest economy.

Pollsters GfK said their forward-looking consumer barometer stood at 9.7 points, unchanged from August when it had fallen to its April 2017 level.

In commodities trading, oil prices extended Tuesday's surge that came in response to figures showing US stockpiles dived more than 11 million barrels last week, lifting hopes for demand and offsetting worries about the impact of the trade war.

Also providing support was Iranian President Hassan Rouhani's call for the United States to lift all sanctions against before he would meet Trump, after the US leader had said he would be open to talks.

The Islamic republic's foreign minister has said the chances of a face-to-face were "unimaginable", meaning there was little chance of a thawing of tensions that would see the return of Iranian oil onto markets. 
&nbsp;

The pound slumped more than one per cent versus the dollar and euro on Wednesday as Britain's government moved to extend the suspension of parliament, increasing the likelihood of a no-deal Brexit.

The pound slumped more than one per cent versus the dollar and euro on Wednesday as Britain's government moved to extend the suspension of parliament, increasing the likelihood of a no-deal Brexit. Britain's currency slid 1.1 per cent to $1.2157, while the euro bought 91.23 pence. Sterling later recovered to above $1.22 but remained heavily down on late Tuesday. The pound's plunge boosted London's benchmark FTSE 100 index, which features numerous multinationals earnings in dollars. "The pace of sterling's drop demonstrates yet again the currency’s susceptibility to Brexit fears," said Han Tan, market analyst at FXTM trading group. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday announced that the annual suspension of parliament would be extended until October 14 - just two weeks before the UK is set to leave the European Union. "Such an event would curtail attempts to block a no-deal Brexit within the UK parliament," Tan added. Anti-Brexit MPs said Johnson's move amounted to a coup and a declaration of war, branding the prime minister a dictator. The extension "certainly caught markets off-guard and came at a time when the pound had been recouping some of its (previous Brexit-fuelled) losses", noted Craig Erlam, senior market analyst at Oanda. "The FTSE, as ever, is the unintended beneficiary of the plunge in the currency, given that the vast majority of its earnings are generated outside of the UK." By contrast, eurozone stock markets were down heavily owing to a stronger euro, and uncertainty over China-US trade talks that weighed also on Asian equities. A poll Wednesday showed German consumer sentiment is stabilising after three months of decline and despite fears of a looming recession in Europe's biggest economy. Pollsters GfK said their forward-looking consumer barometer stood at 9.7 points, unchanged from August when it had fallen to its April 2017 level. In commodities trading, oil prices extended Tuesday's surge that came in response to figures showing US stockpiles dived more than 11 million barrels last week, lifting hopes for demand and offsetting worries about the impact of the trade war. Also providing support was Iranian President Hassan Rouhani's call for the United States to lift all sanctions against before he would meet Trump, after the US leader had said he would be open to talks. The Islamic republic's foreign minister has said the chances of a face-to-face were "unimaginable", meaning there was little chance of a thawing of tensions that would see the return of Iranian oil onto markets.

After British PM Johnson suspends parliament, Pound slums over no-Brexit fears

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-boris-johnson-very-worried-about-trade-tensions-tariff-hikes-245371">British Prime Minister Boris Johnson </a>on Saturday urged US President Donald Trump to remove the "considerable barriers" for UK companies seeking to export to the American market, saying they risked impeding a free-trade deal after Brexit.

Speaking as the Group of Seven summit of top nations got underway in Biarritz, Johnson pointed to a string of UK products -- ranging from shower trays to Britain's beloved pork pies -- that he said were not allowed on the American market.

"I think there is a massive opportunity for Britain, but we must understand that it is not all going to be plain sailing," Johnson told reporters.

"There remain very considerable barriers in the US to British businesses which are not widely understood," he said, adding that he had raised this in telephone discussions with Trump, and would do so again when they meet for bilateral talks on Sunday morning.

"It is very important, if we are going to do a fantastic free trade deal, it is a free trade that works in the interests of British business," he said.

Johnson and other supporters of Britain's exit from the European Union see a trade deal with the US as key to making a success of Brexit, by creating new opportunities for British firms.

The issue could become a rare bone of contention between Johnson and Trump, with the pair having warm relations dating back to well before the British premier arrived in office last month.

Their meeting on Saturday will be their first face-to-face encounter since Johnson became prime minister.

In a flourish characteristic of Johnson, he complained in particular that Americans can't savour Britain's famed Melton Mowbray pork pies, which he said are sold even in Thailand and Iceland.

The pastries "are currently unable to enter the US market because of, I don't know, some sort of Food and Drug Administration restriction," he said, without specifying further.

"There are massive opportunities for UK companies to open up, to prise open the American market," he insisted.

"We intend to seize those opportunities but they are going to require our American friends to compromise and to open up their approach, because currently there are too many restrictions," he said.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Saturday urged US President Donald Trump to remove the "considerable barriers" for UK companies seeking to export to the American market, saying they risked impeding a free-trade deal after Brexit.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Saturday urged US President Donald Trump to remove the "considerable barriers" for UK companies seeking to export to the American market, saying they risked impeding a free-trade deal after Brexit. Speaking as the Group of Seven summit of top nations got underway in Biarritz, Johnson pointed to a string of UK products -- ranging from shower trays to Britain's beloved pork pies -- that he said were not allowed on the American market. "I think there is a massive opportunity for Britain, but we must understand that it is not all going to be plain sailing," Johnson told reporters. "There remain very considerable barriers in the US to British businesses which are not widely understood," he said, adding that he had raised this in telephone discussions with Trump, and would do so again when they meet for bilateral talks on Sunday morning. "It is very important, if we are going to do a fantastic free trade deal, it is a free trade that works in the interests of British business," he said. Johnson and other supporters of Britain's exit from the European Union see a trade deal with the US as key to making a success of Brexit, by creating new opportunities for British firms. The issue could become a rare bone of contention between Johnson and Trump, with the pair having warm relations dating back to well before the British premier arrived in office last month. Their meeting on Saturday will be their first face-to-face encounter since Johnson became prime minister. In a flourish characteristic of Johnson, he complained in particular that Americans can't savour Britain's famed Melton Mowbray pork pies, which he said are sold even in Thailand and Iceland. The pastries "are currently unable to enter the US market because of, I don't know, some sort of Food and Drug Administration restriction," he said, without specifying further. "There are massive opportunities for UK companies to open up, to prise open the American market," he insisted. "We intend to seize those opportunities but they are going to require our American friends to compromise and to open up their approach, because currently there are too many restrictions," he said.

Boris Johnson urges Trump to remove 'considerable barriers' for UK trade

Italy's president will hold a second day of talks aimed at solving the political crisis shaking the country on Thursday after the disintegration of the populist government.

President Sergio Mattarella will meet the main parties, including the anti-establishment Five Star Movement (M5S) and far-right League, after the breakdown of their dysfunctional coalition.

Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte resigned on Tuesday after months of alliance sniping and a bid by League leader and Interior Minister Matteo Salvini to force a snap election, just 14 months since coming to power.

The nationalist, populist government's demonisation of migrants, promoted by Salvini in particular, and attempts to flout EU budget rules had angered many European leaders.

Mattarella met the leaders of both houses of parliament on Wednesday and has been trying to find a way forward.

The formation of a new coalition, a short-term technocratic government or an early election -- more than three years ahead of schedule -- are the main options.

Conditional support

A proposed alliance between M5S and opposition centre-left Democratic Party (PD) -- previously almost unthinkable -- appears to be gaining traction, with PD leader Nicola Zingaretti saying he is ready to make a deal.

The PD and M5S have been at each other's throats for years -- but an alliance would see Salvini kicked out of government, a powerful motive for compromise.

Zingaretti has said the party would back an M5S coalition dependent on five conditions, including a radical shift in Italy's zero-tolerance policy on migrants crossing the Mediterranean.

He later told "La 7" television he was also against the idea of Conte staying on as prime minister.

M5S would like Conte to remain in place but did not give much away, saying it would "wait for the end of consultations".

In a bid to get a PD-M5S alliance off the ground, former PD premier Matteo Renzi has said he will not participate.

Many in the anti-establishment party view him as elitist.&nbsp;

Salvini, who is also deputy prime minister, on Wednesday, mocked his former coalition allies, saying: "In a week they have gone from the League to Renzi."

He added: "No matter which government emerges, its goals will be against the League."

Risk of recession

The end of the unstable coalition government in the eurozone's third-largest economy has so far been welcomed by the markets, with a sharp rise in the Milan stock market on Wednesday.

The country's debt ratio -- 132 per cent of gross domestic product -- is the second-biggest in the eurozone after Greece, and youth unemployment is currently above 30 per cent.

Governments have consistently struggled to bring down debt levels and unemployment.

"Italy's disharmonious political backdrop and the country's budgetary challenges extend well before the sovereign debt crisis," said Rabobank analyst Jane Foley.

Rome needs to approve a budget in the next few months or potentially face an automatic rise in value-added tax that would hit the least well-off Italian families the hardest and likely plunge the country into recession.

"(The crisis) arrives at a critical juncture for Europe amid the risk of recession in Germany and the formation of the new European Commission, and could contribute to deteriorating significantly the confidence on the eurozone," said Andrea Montanino, chief economist at the General Confederation of Italian Industry.

After last year's election, it took months of wrangling before a government was formed.

Mattarella has made it clear he wants talks to conclude quickly but splits within the PD and M5S, as well as sharp policy differences, could complicate coalition efforts.

A PD-M5S tie-up would realistically also need support from smaller parties to be an effective government.&nbsp;

Italy's president will hold a second day of talks aimed at solving the political crisis shaking the country on Thursday after the disintegration of the populist government.

Italy's president will hold a second day of talks aimed at solving the political crisis shaking the country on Thursday after the disintegration of the populist government. President Sergio Mattarella will meet the main parties, including the anti-establishment Five Star Movement (M5S) and far-right League, after the breakdown of their dysfunctional coalition. Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte resigned on Tuesday after months of alliance sniping and a bid by League leader and Interior Minister Matteo Salvini to force a snap election, just 14 months since coming to power. The nationalist, populist government's demonisation of migrants, promoted by Salvini in particular, and attempts to flout EU budget rules had angered many European leaders. Mattarella met the leaders of both houses of parliament on Wednesday and has been trying to find a way forward. The formation of a new coalition, a short-term technocratic government or an early election -- more than three years ahead of schedule -- are the main options. Conditional support A proposed alliance between M5S and opposition centre-left Democratic Party (PD) -- previously almost unthinkable -- appears to be gaining traction, with PD leader Nicola Zingaretti saying he is ready to make a deal. The PD and M5S have been at each other's throats for years -- but an alliance would see Salvini kicked out of government, a powerful motive for compromise. Zingaretti has said the party would back an M5S coalition dependent on five conditions, including a radical shift in Italy's zero-tolerance policy on migrants crossing the Mediterranean. He later told "La 7" television he was also against the idea of Conte staying on as prime minister. M5S would like Conte to remain in place but did not give much away, saying it would "wait for the end of consultations". In a bid to get a PD-M5S alliance off the ground, former PD premier Matteo Renzi has said he will not participate. Many in the anti-establishment party view him as elitist. Salvini, who is also deputy prime minister, on Wednesday, mocked his former coalition allies, saying: "In a week they have gone from the League to Renzi." He added: "No matter which government emerges, its goals will be against the League." Risk of recession The end of the unstable coalition government in the eurozone's third-largest economy has so far been welcomed by the markets, with a sharp rise in the Milan stock market on Wednesday. The country's debt ratio -- 132 per cent of gross domestic product -- is the second-biggest in the eurozone after Greece, and youth unemployment is currently above 30 per cent. Governments have consistently struggled to bring down debt levels and unemployment. "Italy's disharmonious political backdrop and the country's budgetary challenges extend well before the sovereign debt crisis," said Rabobank analyst Jane Foley. Rome needs to approve a budget in the next few months or potentially face an automatic rise in value-added tax that would hit the least well-off Italian families the hardest and likely plunge the country into recession. "(The crisis) arrives at a critical juncture for Europe amid the risk of recession in Germany and the formation of the new European Commission, and could contribute to deteriorating significantly the confidence on the eurozone," said Andrea Montanino, chief economist at the General Confederation of Italian Industry. After last year's election, it took months of wrangling before a government was formed. Mattarella has made it clear he wants talks to conclude quickly but splits within the PD and M5S, as well as sharp policy differences, could complicate coalition efforts. A PD-M5S tie-up would realistically also need support from smaller parties to be an effective government.

Second day of Italy crisis talks after Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte resigns

French leader Emmanuel Macron backed the idea of a month of further talks to find a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-germany-hints-at-compromise-france-tells-uk-no-new-brexit-deal-244700">solution to Brexit</a> while ruling out major compromises as he met British Prime Minister Boris Johnson for talks on Thursday.

Like German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Wednesday, Macron supported allowing another 30 days to find a solution to the vexed issue of the Irish border which has bedevilled <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-deal-brexit-seems-most-likely-scenario-french-presidential-aide-244673">negotiations since 2017</a>.

"We need to try to have a useful month," Macron said alongside Johnson who insisted that solutions were "readily available" to prevent checkpoints returning in divided Ireland.

But Macron, who admitted he had a reputation as the "hardest in the gang" on Brexit, has rejected Johnson's calls to scrap a key arrangement for Ireland negotiated between the EU and former British premier Theresa May.

At stake is the so-called "backstop", which is a provision guaranteeing that border checks will not return between EU member Ireland and Northern Ireland which is part of Britain.

Johnson considers the backstop to be "anti-democratic" and an affront to British sovereignty because it will require London to keep its regulations aligned with the EU during a transition exit period.

"The technical solutions are readily available (to avoid checkpoints) and they have been discussed at great length," Johnson said. "You can have trusted trader schemes, you can have electronic pre-clearing."

The EU argues the backstop is necessary to avoid the re-emergence of checkpoints which could lead to a return of fighting on the divided island where anti-British violence has claimed thousands of lives.

"I want to be very clear. In the coming month, we will not find a new withdrawal agreement that is far from the fundamentals," Macron said at the Elysee palace in central Paris.

Since Johnson's ascent to power last month, the chances of a "no deal" Brexit on October 31 have risen, which economists see as likely to wreak economic damage on Britain and the EU.

"The EU and member states need to take the possibility of a 'no deal' outcome much more seriously than before," a senior EU official told reporters in Brussels on Thursday on condition of anonymity.

A French official said on Wednesday that this was becoming the "most likely" scenario.

The Paris visit was the second leg of Johnson's first foreign trip as prime minister.

On Wednesday, he was in Berlin for talks with Merkel who appeared to offer a glimmer of hope by saying Britain should try to find a breakthrough to the issue over the next month.

"I want a deal," Johnson told Macron. "I think we can get a deal and a good deal."

He added that he had been "powerfully encouraged" by his talks with Merkel. "I admire that 'can do' spirit that she seemed to have."

But many Brexit watchers see Merkel's remarks as fitting a pattern in which she has often been more conciliatory in public about Brexit than Macron, whose abrasive remarks have caused anger in London in the past.

"There is not the width of cigarette paper between Paris and Berlin on these issues," a senior aide to Macron said on Wednesday on condition of anonymity.

The EU official in Brussels added that the EU was "a little concerned based on what we heard yesterday (in Berlin)."

"We are waiting for new facts, workable ideas," the official added.

- Blame game - 
Johnson, who has deployed his French language skills to charm diplomats in Paris before, has staked his leadership on withdrawing Britain from the EU by the current deadline of October 31 &nbsp;-- "do or die".

Some analysts see a risk of relations between Macron and Johnson becoming stormy in public, which could lead to a blame game about a "no deal" Brexit.&nbsp;

Johnson reportedly once called the French "turds" over their stance on Brexit during his time as foreign secretary -- remarks he later said he could not recall.

But Macron pre-empted any attempt to deflect blame onto the European side during a press conference on Wednesday before Johnson's arrival.

"It will be the responsibility of the British government, always, because firstly it was the British people that decided Brexit, and the British government has the possibility up to the last second to revoke Article 50," he said.

Article 50 is the legal mechanism used by EU members states to withdraw from the bloc which was triggered by Britain in March 2017.

At the weekend, Macron, Merkel and Johnson will meet US President Donald Trump, a vocal supporter of both Brexit and Johnson, at a G7 summit in the French seaside resort of Biarritz.

French leader Emmanuel Macron backed the idea of a month of further talks to find a solution to Brexit while ruling out major compromises as he met British Prime Minister Boris Johnson for talks on Thursday.

French leader Emmanuel Macron backed the idea of a month of further talks to find a solution to Brexit while ruling out major compromises as he met British Prime Minister Boris Johnson for talks on Thursday. Like German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Wednesday, Macron supported allowing another 30 days to find a solution to the vexed issue of the Irish border which has bedevilled negotiations since 2017. "We need to try to have a useful month," Macron said alongside Johnson who insisted that solutions were "readily available" to prevent checkpoints returning in divided Ireland. But Macron, who admitted he had a reputation as the "hardest in the gang" on Brexit, has rejected Johnson's calls to scrap a key arrangement for Ireland negotiated between the EU and former British premier Theresa May. At stake is the so-called "backstop", which is a provision guaranteeing that border checks will not return between EU member Ireland and Northern Ireland which is part of Britain. Johnson considers the backstop to be "anti-democratic" and an affront to British sovereignty because it will require London to keep its regulations aligned with the EU during a transition exit period. "The technical solutions are readily available (to avoid checkpoints) and they have been discussed at great length," Johnson said. "You can have trusted trader schemes, you can have electronic pre-clearing." The EU argues the backstop is necessary to avoid the re-emergence of checkpoints which could lead to a return of fighting on the divided island where anti-British violence has claimed thousands of lives. "I want to be very clear. In the coming month, we will not find a new withdrawal agreement that is far from the fundamentals," Macron said at the Elysee palace in central Paris. Since Johnson's ascent to power last month, the chances of a "no deal" Brexit on October 31 have risen, which economists see as likely to wreak economic damage on Britain and the EU. "The EU and member states need to take the possibility of a 'no deal' outcome much more seriously than before," a senior EU official told reporters in Brussels on Thursday on condition of anonymity. A French official said on Wednesday that this was becoming the "most likely" scenario. The Paris visit was the second leg of Johnson's first foreign trip as prime minister. On Wednesday, he was in Berlin for talks with Merkel who appeared to offer a glimmer of hope by saying Britain should try to find a breakthrough to the issue over the next month. "I want a deal," Johnson told Macron. "I think we can get a deal and a good deal." He added that he had been "powerfully encouraged" by his talks with Merkel. "I admire that 'can do' spirit that she seemed to have." But many Brexit watchers see Merkel's remarks as fitting a pattern in which she has often been more conciliatory in public about Brexit than Macron, whose abrasive remarks have caused anger in London in the past. "There is not the width of cigarette paper between Paris and Berlin on these issues," a senior aide to Macron said on Wednesday on condition of anonymity. The EU official in Brussels added that the EU was "a little concerned based on what we heard yesterday (in Berlin)." "We are waiting for new facts, workable ideas," the official added. - Blame game - Johnson, who has deployed his French language skills to charm diplomats in Paris before, has staked his leadership on withdrawing Britain from the EU by the current deadline of October 31 -- "do or die". Some analysts see a risk of relations between Macron and Johnson becoming stormy in public, which could lead to a blame game about a "no deal" Brexit. Johnson reportedly once called the French "turds" over their stance on Brexit during his time as foreign secretary -- remarks he later said he could not recall. But Macron pre-empted any attempt to deflect blame onto the European side during a press conference on Wednesday before Johnson's arrival. "It will be the responsibility of the British government, always, because firstly it was the British people that decided Brexit, and the British government has the possibility up to the last second to revoke Article 50," he said. Article 50 is the legal mechanism used by EU members states to withdraw from the bloc which was triggered by Britain in March 2017. At the weekend, Macron, Merkel and Johnson will meet US President Donald Trump, a vocal supporter of both Brexit and Johnson, at a G7 summit in the French seaside resort of Biarritz.

I think we can get Brexit deal and a good deal: Johnson to Macron

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/remain-alliance-can-it-halt-brexit-and-beat-boris-johnson-240152">Boris Johnson </a>suffered a setback in his first ballot box test as British prime minister on Friday after the Conservative candidate lost to a pro-EU rival in a by-election that slims his parliamentary majority to one.

Thursday's vote in the Welsh sheep farming community of Brecon and Radnorshire offered a stark choice between the Brexit-backing incumbent&nbsp;from Johnson's ruling Tories and a Liberal Democrat who wants to preserve Britain's four-decade membership of the European Union.

Johnson dropped by the region Tuesday to help out Chris Davies -- a Conservative MP who was forced to step down after being criminally convicted of expenses fraud.

Davies protested his innocence and contested the seat again, but saw the Liberal Democrats' Jane Dodds overturn his previous majority of 8,038 and win by a margin of 1,425 votes.

"My very first act as MP when I arrive in Westminster will be to find Boris Johnson wherever he is hiding and tell him loud and clear: stop playing with the futures of our communities and rule out no-deal Brexit," she said.

Watch: Boris Johnson loses 1st Electoral test

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Johnson's&nbsp;newly-formed government is trying to force Brussels to return to the negotiating table by insisting Britain is ready to leave the EU without a deal on the latest delayed departure date of October 31.

Finance minister Sajid Javid announced Wednesday an extra £2.1 billion ($2.6 billion, 2.3 billion euros) in funding to prepare for such an eventuality.

But Bank of England governor Mark Carney said Friday a no-deal Brexit would be a shock for the country's economy causing supply disruption and potentially undermining entire sectors such as the car industry and farming.

Meanwhile, an official government document obtained by Sky News warned of potential "consumer panic" and gaps in security within weeks.

Such fears have already pushed the pound to its lowest levels since Britons first voted to leave the EU in June 2016.

'So much at stake'&nbsp;

Control of Brecon and Radnorshire has swung between&nbsp;the Liberal Democrats and the Conservatives since the 1990s. It voted 52 per cent to leave in the EU referendum -- mirroring the UK-wide result.

Dodds benefitted from a so-called "Remain alliance" which saw two smaller pro-EU parties back her bid.

The result extends a recent revival for the Liberal Democrats at the major parties' expense, thanks to its firm stand against Britain's split from the EU.

It came a surprise second behind populist eurosceptic Nigel Farage's Brexit Party in European Parliament elections in May.

Farage's candidate in the Wales by-election ate into the Conservative's support, while the main opposition Labour Party came in a distant fourth.

Liberal Democrats leader Jo Swinson, elevated to the role just last month, said the party would look to forge further pro-EU alliances at the next election.

"I do think that working across party lines is important when there is so much at stake for the future of our country," she told BBC Radio.

Test of strength

Despite the loss, polling expert John Curtice argued that the result confirmed a "Boris bounce" seen in opinion polls because it was not as bad as it could have been.

The party had been haemorrhaging support under Johnson's predecessor Theresa May, particularly at the expense of the newly-created Brexit Party.

But Curtice warned that polls indicated the Conservatives would still be short of a majority in any election.

The by-election defeat still leaves Johnson in danger of being unable to control parliament when it returns from a summer break on September 3.

MPs are already plotting ways to thwart his threat to take Britain out of the EU by October 31, fearing the dire economic consequences predicted.

The new Conservative leader also needs to be able to pass legislation to make that potentially chaotic outcome as smooth as possible -- and to pass any compromise he might suddenly strike with Brussels.

The 650-seat House of Commons is highly fractured across party lines over Brexit and includes MPs who at times switch sides or abstain in crunch votes.

This leaves Johnson dependent on the whims of just a few legislators at one of the most crucial points in British history since World War II.

Boris Johnson suffered a setback in his first ballot box test as British prime minister on Friday after the Conservative candidate lost to a pro-EU rival in a by-election that slims his parliamentary majority to one.

Boris Johnson suffered a setback in his first ballot box test as British prime minister on Friday after the Conservative candidate lost to a pro-EU rival in a by-election that slims his parliamentary majority to one. Thursday's vote in the Welsh sheep farming community of Brecon and Radnorshire offered a stark choice between the Brexit-backing incumbent from Johnson's ruling Tories and a Liberal Democrat who wants to preserve Britain's four-decade membership of the European Union. Johnson dropped by the region Tuesday to help out Chris Davies -- a Conservative MP who was forced to step down after being criminally convicted of expenses fraud. Davies protested his innocence and contested the seat again, but saw the Liberal Democrats' Jane Dodds overturn his previous majority of 8,038 and win by a margin of 1,425 votes. "My very first act as MP when I arrive in Westminster will be to find Boris Johnson wherever he is hiding and tell him loud and clear: stop playing with the futures of our communities and rule out no-deal Brexit," she said. Watch: Boris Johnson loses 1st Electoral test × Johnson's newly-formed government is trying to force Brussels to return to the negotiating table by insisting Britain is ready to leave the EU without a deal on the latest delayed departure date of October 31. Finance minister Sajid Javid announced Wednesday an extra £2.1 billion ($2.6 billion, 2.3 billion euros) in funding to prepare for such an eventuality. But Bank of England governor Mark Carney said Friday a no-deal Brexit would be a shock for the country's economy causing supply disruption and potentially undermining entire sectors such as the car industry and farming. Meanwhile, an official government document obtained by Sky News warned of potential "consumer panic" and gaps in security within weeks. Such fears have already pushed the pound to its lowest levels since Britons first voted to leave the EU in June 2016. 'So much at stake' Control of Brecon and Radnorshire has swung between the Liberal Democrats and the Conservatives since the 1990s. It voted 52 per cent to leave in the EU referendum -- mirroring the UK-wide result. Dodds benefitted from a so-called "Remain alliance" which saw two smaller pro-EU parties back her bid. The result extends a recent revival for the Liberal Democrats at the major parties' expense, thanks to its firm stand against Britain's split from the EU. It came a surprise second behind populist eurosceptic Nigel Farage's Brexit Party in European Parliament elections in May. Farage's candidate in the Wales by-election ate into the Conservative's support, while the main opposition Labour Party came in a distant fourth. Liberal Democrats leader Jo Swinson, elevated to the role just last month, said the party would look to forge further pro-EU alliances at the next election. "I do think that working across party lines is important when there is so much at stake for the future of our country," she told BBC Radio. Test of strength Despite the loss, polling expert John Curtice argued that the result confirmed a "Boris bounce" seen in opinion polls because it was not as bad as it could have been. The party had been haemorrhaging support under Johnson's predecessor Theresa May, particularly at the expense of the newly-created Brexit Party. But Curtice warned that polls indicated the Conservatives would still be short of a majority in any election. The by-election defeat still leaves Johnson in danger of being unable to control parliament when it returns from a summer break on September 3. MPs are already plotting ways to thwart his threat to take Britain out of the EU by October 31, fearing the dire economic consequences predicted. The new Conservative leader also needs to be able to pass legislation to make that potentially chaotic outcome as smooth as possible -- and to pass any compromise he might suddenly strike with Brussels. The 650-seat House of Commons is highly fractured across party lines over Brexit and includes MPs who at times switch sides or abstain in crunch votes. This leaves Johnson dependent on the whims of just a few legislators at one of the most crucial points in British history since World War II.

Britain's Johnson suffers first electoral setback as prime minister

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