Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party said it will file FIRs against the Punjab Rangers and the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) in relation to the high drama that followed on 9 May when the country witnessed violent protests following the arrest of the former prime minister.&nbsp;

According to the party, the paramilitary forces were apparently vying for Imran Khan's “abduction” from the grounds of the Islamabad High Court. On 9 May, following Imran Khan's arrest, there were mass demonstrations across Pakistan which resulted in the killing of PTI workers while several others were injured.&nbsp;

PTI said that there was “false, absurd, and baseless propaganda” carried out against the party in connection with the violent clashes that broke out on the day Imran Khan was arrested.&nbsp;While claiming that the party has a clean track record for the last 27 years of its history, PTI said it adheres to the laws of the land and democratic principles.&nbsp;

It further added that the party sticks to peaceful processes and does not resort to violence in politics.&nbsp;

PTI claimed&nbsp;that even when on 3 November 2022 when an assassination attempt was carried out against Imran Khan while he was giving a speech in Wazirabad, Punjab, the party did not do anything that would have incited violence in the country.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-election-result-2023-pheu-thai-and-move-forward-party-stun-military-loyalists-592442">Thailand election result 2023: Pheu Thai and Move Forward Party stun military loyalists</a>

The PTI demanded a thorough inquiry into any intentional attempts to cause mayhem during peaceful rallies by Imran Khan's supporters. It called on to investigate the shootings of people. The PTI urged for the creation of a high-level commission made up of Supreme Court justices to look into what happened on 9 May. It claimed that charges should be brought against those responsible for the killings of civilians during the protests that followed Imran Khan's detention.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-elections-2023-erdogan-takes-an-early-lead-reports-suggest-country-headed-for-may-28-runoffs-592441">Turkey Elections 2023 | Erdogan takes an early lead; reports suggest country headed for May 28 runoffs</a>

The PTI pledged to identify all authorities responsible for violence on PTI demonstrators, including the interior minister and interim chief ministers of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.&nbsp;

<h2>PTI condemns internet ban</h2>

The PTI strongly condemned the government’s recent ban on internet and social media access throughout the country, viewing it as an attempt to suppress the truth.

Watch | Turkey Election 2023: Preliminary numbers show President Erdogan in the lead

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The party demanded an immediate restoration of internet connectivity.

<h2>Calls for conducting provincial elections&nbsp;</h2>

The PTI questioned the legal and constitutional validity of the caretaker government in Punjab, referring to the Supreme Court’s deadline of May 14 for elections in the province. It asserted that the failure to hold elections in Punjab today, in accordance with constitutional and Supreme Court orders, constituted a severe infringement upon the constitution.

Imran Khan is likely to appear before the Lahore High Court today, 15 May. This is in relation to the cases against him for incidents of violence that erupted after his arrest last week.

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Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party said it will file FIRs against the Punjab Rangers and the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) in relation to the high drama that followed on 9 May when the country witnessed violent protests following the arrest of the former prime minister.

Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party said it will file FIRs against the Punjab Rangers and the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) in relation to the high drama that followed on 9 May when the country witnessed violent protests following the arrest of the former prime minister. According to the party, the paramilitary forces were apparently vying for Imran Khan's “abduction” from the grounds of the Islamabad High Court. On 9 May, following Imran Khan's arrest, there were mass demonstrations across Pakistan which resulted in the killing of PTI workers while several others were injured. PTI said that there was “false, absurd, and baseless propaganda” carried out against the party in connection with the violent clashes that broke out on the day Imran Khan was arrested. While claiming that the party has a clean track record for the last 27 years of its history, PTI said it adheres to the laws of the land and democratic principles. It further added that the party sticks to peaceful processes and does not resort to violence in politics. PTI claimed that even when on 3 November 2022 when an assassination attempt was carried out against Imran Khan while he was giving a speech in Wazirabad, Punjab, the party did not do anything that would have incited violence in the country. Also Read | Thailand election result 2023: Pheu Thai and Move Forward Party stun military loyalists The PTI demanded a thorough inquiry into any intentional attempts to cause mayhem during peaceful rallies by Imran Khan's supporters. It called on to investigate the shootings of people. The PTI urged for the creation of a high-level commission made up of Supreme Court justices to look into what happened on 9 May. It claimed that charges should be brought against those responsible for the killings of civilians during the protests that followed Imran Khan's detention. Also Read | Turkey Elections 2023 | Erdogan takes an early lead; reports suggest country headed for May 28 runoffs The PTI pledged to identify all authorities responsible for violence on PTI demonstrators, including the interior minister and interim chief ministers of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. PTI condemns internet ban The PTI strongly condemned the government’s recent ban on internet and social media access throughout the country, viewing it as an attempt to suppress the truth. Watch | Turkey Election 2023: Preliminary numbers show President Erdogan in the lead × The party demanded an immediate restoration of internet connectivity. Calls for conducting provincial elections The PTI questioned the legal and constitutional validity of the caretaker government in Punjab, referring to the Supreme Court’s deadline of May 14 for elections in the province. It asserted that the failure to hold elections in Punjab today, in accordance with constitutional and Supreme Court orders, constituted a severe infringement upon the constitution. Imran Khan is likely to appear before the Lahore High Court today, 15 May. This is in relation to the cases against him for incidents of violence that erupted after his arrest last week. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

PTI to file FIRs against Rangers, NAB over Imran’s ‘abduction’ on 9 May

An unusual shallow fog enveloped India's national capital Delhi on Thursday morning leaving the residents bemused, who generally expect sultry and hot&nbsp;weather in the month of May.

Historically, May has been the year's hottest month, recording a mean maximum temperature of 39.5 degree&nbsp;Celsius.

On Thursday, the minimum temperature decreased to 15.8 degree&nbsp;Celsius as it became the third coldest morning in the month of May since 1901.

Delhi has been witnessing an unexpected weather pattern with cool and windy weather, sporadic rain and cloudy skies for which the weather forecasters have held back-to-back western disturbances responsible.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/winter-fog-in-indian-capital-a-toxic-cocktail-of-pollutants-govt-study-549413">Winter fog in Indian capital a toxic cocktail of pollutants: Govt study</a>

Pictures and videos of the fog covering the skyline of the city were posted by the residents on social media.

“Fog on a May morning in Delhi. Never ever before have I experienced this in over 4 decades of living in this city. This is surreal!” said a Twitter user.

“Fog in Delhi on a summer morning! Same time last year, we were in a heat wave!” another person stated.

The weather department officials stated that calm winds, major differences between the nighttime and daytime temperatures and high moisture content in the air create conditions which are favourable for the fog's formation.

As per the IMD, shallow fog occurs when visibility ranges between 501 and 1,000 metres.

The primary weather station of Delhi, Safdarjung Observatory, recorded 30mm of rainfall in the last 24 hours, ending at 8:30 am on Thursday.

A maximum temperature of 30.6 degree Celsius was recorded by the observatory, nine notches below normal, on Wednesday and it recorded a minimum temperature of 15.8 degree&nbsp;Celsius on Thursday, which was the third lowest in the month since they began recording the temperatures in 1901.

WATCH | India: Delhi-NCR engulfed in untimely fog, IMD issues warning for more rainfall in coming days

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On May 2, 1969, the observatory recorded an all-time low temperature of 15.1 degree&nbsp;Celsius. A minimum temperature of 15.2 degree&nbsp;Celsius was recorded by the city on May 2, 1982. At most places in Delhi, humidity levels changed between 80 per cent and 100 per cent. From Friday onwards, the city is likely to receive another spell of rain, said the weather officials.

More than 20 mm of rainfall was recorded in the national capital in April, which was the highest rainfall received in the month since 2017, because of back-to-back western disturbances. The maximum temperatures recorded by the Safdarjung Observatory were at least 10 degrees below normal temperature on Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday because of intermittent rainfall and cloudy weather conditions.

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An unusual shallow fog enveloped India's national capital Delhi on Thursday morning leaving the residents bemused, who generally expect sultry and hot weather in the month of May.

An unusual shallow fog enveloped India's national capital Delhi on Thursday morning leaving the residents bemused, who generally expect sultry and hot weather in the month of May. Historically, May has been the year's hottest month, recording a mean maximum temperature of 39.5 degree Celsius. On Thursday, the minimum temperature decreased to 15.8 degree Celsius as it became the third coldest morning in the month of May since 1901. Delhi has been witnessing an unexpected weather pattern with cool and windy weather, sporadic rain and cloudy skies for which the weather forecasters have held back-to-back western disturbances responsible. ALSO READ | Winter fog in Indian capital a toxic cocktail of pollutants: Govt study Pictures and videos of the fog covering the skyline of the city were posted by the residents on social media. “Fog on a May morning in Delhi. Never ever before have I experienced this in over 4 decades of living in this city. This is surreal!” said a Twitter user. “Fog in Delhi on a summer morning! Same time last year, we were in a heat wave!” another person stated. The weather department officials stated that calm winds, major differences between the nighttime and daytime temperatures and high moisture content in the air create conditions which are favourable for the fog's formation. As per the IMD, shallow fog occurs when visibility ranges between 501 and 1,000 metres. The primary weather station of Delhi, Safdarjung Observatory, recorded 30mm of rainfall in the last 24 hours, ending at 8:30 am on Thursday. A maximum temperature of 30.6 degree Celsius was recorded by the observatory, nine notches below normal, on Wednesday and it recorded a minimum temperature of 15.8 degree Celsius on Thursday, which was the third lowest in the month since they began recording the temperatures in 1901. WATCH | India: Delhi-NCR engulfed in untimely fog, IMD issues warning for more rainfall in coming days On May 2, 1969, the observatory recorded an all-time low temperature of 15.1 degree Celsius. A minimum temperature of 15.2 degree Celsius was recorded by the city on May 2, 1982. At most places in Delhi, humidity levels changed between 80 per cent and 100 per cent. From Friday onwards, the city is likely to receive another spell of rain, said the weather officials. More than 20 mm of rainfall was recorded in the national capital in April, which was the highest rainfall received in the month since 2017, because of back-to-back western disturbances. The maximum temperatures recorded by the Safdarjung Observatory were at least 10 degrees below normal temperature on Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday because of intermittent rainfall and cloudy weather conditions. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Rare fog envelops Delhi in hottest month, city marks third coldest day in May since 1901

The union that Amazon.com Inc workers recently voted to represent them has demanded the company start bargaining in early May and cease any changes to employment terms at their warehouse in the interim, according to a letter the group issued Saturday on Twitter.

Amazon's new union demands company start bargaining in early May

Sri Lanka is witnessing daily protests demanding fertilizers for their crops, this comes as government imposed a ban on chemical fertilizers in May, the move was to make Sri Lanka the world's first 100% organic farming nation.

Sri Lanka government bans chemical fertilizers in May, policy sparks anger amongst farmers

Theresa May has stepped down as head of the Conservative Party. Task now is to find replacement. Watch this video to know more.

Who will be the next British PM?

Filmmaker Taika Waititi's live-action film 'Akira'&nbsp;has been given the release date of 21st May&nbsp;2021.

An adaptation of Katsuhiro Otomo's manga series of the same name, the project has been long in the making.&nbsp;

Jordan Peele, George Miller, Christopher Nolan, and Justin Lin were all circling the project at some point in the last few years.

Waititi, who directed Marvel's blockbuster 'Thor: Ragnarok', boarded the project in 2017.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the film, which hails from Warner Bros stable, will open opposite Lionsgate's 'John Wick: Chapter 4'.

Hollywood star Leonardo DiCaprio is producing through his Appian Way along with Andrew Lazar.&nbsp;

Filmmaker Taika Waititi's live-action film 'Akira' has been given the release date of 21st May 2021. An adaptation of Katsuhiro Otomo's manga series of the same name, the project has been long in the making.

Filmmaker Taika Waititi's live-action film 'Akira' has been given the release date of 21st May 2021. An adaptation of Katsuhiro Otomo's manga series of the same name, the project has been long in the making. Jordan Peele, George Miller, Christopher Nolan, and Justin Lin were all circling the project at some point in the last few years. Waititi, who directed Marvel's blockbuster 'Thor: Ragnarok', boarded the project in 2017. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the film, which hails from Warner Bros stable, will open opposite Lionsgate's 'John Wick: Chapter 4'. Hollywood star Leonardo DiCaprio is producing through his Appian Way along with Andrew Lazar.

Taika Waititi's 'Akira' movie gets May 2021 release date

Prime Minister Theresa May is <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pressure-for-new-confidence-vote-if-pm-may-does-not-set-exit-date-1922-treasurer-220969">under pressure to resign </a>after a backlash to her final Brexit gambit and has agreed to meet the chairman of her Conservative Party's 1922 Committee on Friday to discuss her future.

Below are Conservatives who have either said they plan to put themselves forward or are widely expected to run for the leadership:

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-government-postpones-brexit-vote-official-220953">British government postpones Brexit vote: Official</a>

Planning to run:

BORIS JOHNSON, 54

The face of the official campaign to leave the European Union, Johnson resigned as foreign minister in July in protest at May's handling of the exit negotiations.

Johnson set out his pitch to the membership in a speech at the party's annual conference in October - some members queued for hours to get a seat. He called on the party to return to its traditional values of low tax and strong policing.

Last week the BBC reported he had told The British Insurance Brokers' Association: "Of course I'm going to go for it."

He is the bookmakers' favourite to succeed May.

ESTHER MCVEY, 51

The pro-Brexit former television presenter, who resigned as work and pensions minister in November in protest at May's exit deal with the EU, has said she plans to run.

McVey told Talkradio: "I have always said quite clearly that if I got enough support from my colleagues, yes I would (run). Now people have come forward and I have got that support, so I will be going forward."

RORY STEWART, 46

A former diplomat who once walked 6,000 miles across Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, India and Nepal, Stewart was promoted to International Development Secretary this month.

Educated at the exclusive Eton College, Stewart was first elected to parliament in 2010 and backed remaining in the EU in the 2016 referendum. He opposes a 'no deal' exit and has been a vocal advocate of May's deal with Brussels.

"I do want to bring this country together ... I accept Brexit, I am a Brexiteer, but I want to reach out to 'Remain' voters as well," he told the BBC.

Expected to run:

MICHAEL GOVE, 51

Gove, one of the highest-profile Brexit campaigners during the 2016 referendum, has had to rebuild his cabinet career after falling early to May in the contest to replace David Cameron, who resigned the day after losing the referendum.

Seen as one of the most effective members of cabinet in bringing forward new policies, the high-energy environment minister has become a surprise ally to May and has backed her Brexit strategy.

Gove teamed up with Johnson during the 2016 Brexit campaign only to pull his support for Johnson’s subsequent leadership bid at the last moment and run himself.

He has not yet said whether he plans to run.

JEREMY HUNT, 52

Hunt replaced Johnson as foreign minister in July and has urged the Conservative membership to set aside their differences over Brexit and unite against a common foe - the EU.

Hunt voted to remain in the EU in the referendum. He served six years as Britain’s health minister, a role that has made him unpopular with many voters who work in or rely on the state-run, financially stretched National Health Service.

Asked at a lunch with journalists in parliament if he planned to run for leader, he said: "Wait and see."

ANDREA LEADSOM, 56

A pro-Brexit campaigner, Leadsom made it to the last two in the 2016 contest to replace Cameron. She withdrew after a backlash to an interview in which she said being a mother gave her more of a stake in the future of the country than her rival Theresa May.

Leadsom quit as Leader of the House of Commons on Wednesday, saying she did not believe the government's approach would deliver on the Brexit referendum result. She has previously told broadcaster ITV she was "seriously considering standing" to replace May.

DOMINIC RAAB, 45

Raab quit as May’s Brexit minister last year in protest at her draft exit agreement saying it did not match the promises the Conservative Party made in the 2017 election. Raab served only five months as head of the Brexit department.

He had held junior ministerial roles since being elected in 2010. Raab, a black belt in karate, campaigned for Brexit.

Asked if he would like to be prime minister, he said: "Never say never."

SAJID JAVID, 49

Javid, a former banker and a champion of free markets, has served a number of cabinet roles and scores consistently well in polls of party members. A second-generation immigrant of Pakistani heritage, he has a portrait of late Conservative prime minister Margaret Thatcher on his office wall.

Javid voted 'Remain' in the 2016 referendum but was previously considered to be eurosceptic. He has not said whether he plans to run but is considered to have been setting out his stall in speeches and media interviews.

DAVID DAVIS, 70

Davis, a leading eurosceptic, was appointed Brexit minister to lead negotiations with the EU in July 2016 but resigned two years later in protest at May's plans for a long-term relationship with the bloc.

He ran for the party's leadership in 2005 but lost to Cameron.

PENNY MORDAUNT, 46

Mordaunt is one of the last remaining pro-Brexit members of May's cabinet. She became Britain's first female defence secretary this month.

A Royal Navy reservist, Mordaunt was previously international development minister. Many had expected her to join the wave of resignations that followed the publication of May’s draft withdrawal deal.

AMBER RUDD, 55

Rudd resigned as interior minister last year after facing outrage over her department's treatment of some long-term Caribbean residents wrongly labelled illegal immigrants.

She backed 'Remain' in 2016 and has opposed a 'no deal' exit, meaning she could win support from pro-EU Conservative lawmakers. But she struggled to retain her seat at the 2017 election and has one of the smallest majorities in parliament.

MATT HANCOCK, 40

Health minister Hancock, a former economist at the Bank of England, supported 'Remain' in 2016. First elected to parliament in 2010, he has held several ministerial roles.

JUSTINE GREENING, 50

The former education minister told ITV she would consider running. Greening supports a second Brexit referendum. Many thought she might join several of her colleagues in quitting the party to form a pro-EU group in parliament earlier this year.

LIZ TRUSS, 43

Chief Secretary to the Treasury, Truss has held several roles in government including environment minister and justice minister. She backed 'Remain' in 2016 but has said she has since changed her mind on Brexit.

GRAHAM BRADY, 51

Brady is chair of the 1922 Committee of Conservative lawmakers. "It would take an awful lot of people to persuade me. I'm not sure many people are straining at the leash to take on what is an extraordinarily difficult situation," he told BBC Radio.

KIT MALTHOUSE, 52

A former deputy mayor of London, Malthouse became a Member of Parliament in 2015. He is a junior housing minister and helped author the so-called Malthouse Compromise plan to replace the unpopular Irish backstop in Britain's EU exit deal with alternative arrangements to avoid a hard border.

The Sun newspaper reported he was setting up a campaign team.

JAMES CLEVERLY, 49

Cleverly was appointed a junior Brexit minister last month, having previously been deputy chair of the Conservative Party. He had a career in publishing before being elected to parliament in 2015.

The Sun reported he was planning to run for leader.

Prime Minister Theresa May is under pressure to resign after a backlash to her final Brexit gambit and has agreed to meet the chairman of her Conservative Party's 1922 Committee on Friday to discuss her future.

Prime Minister Theresa May is under pressure to resign after a backlash to her final Brexit gambit and has agreed to meet the chairman of her Conservative Party's 1922 Committee on Friday to discuss her future. Below are Conservatives who have either said they plan to put themselves forward or are widely expected to run for the leadership: Also read- British government postpones Brexit vote: Official Planning to run: BORIS JOHNSON, 54 The face of the official campaign to leave the European Union, Johnson resigned as foreign minister in July in protest at May's handling of the exit negotiations. Johnson set out his pitch to the membership in a speech at the party's annual conference in October - some members queued for hours to get a seat. He called on the party to return to its traditional values of low tax and strong policing. Last week the BBC reported he had told The British Insurance Brokers' Association: "Of course I'm going to go for it." He is the bookmakers' favourite to succeed May. ESTHER MCVEY, 51 The pro-Brexit former television presenter, who resigned as work and pensions minister in November in protest at May's exit deal with the EU, has said she plans to run. McVey told Talkradio: "I have always said quite clearly that if I got enough support from my colleagues, yes I would (run). Now people have come forward and I have got that support, so I will be going forward." RORY STEWART, 46 A former diplomat who once walked 6,000 miles across Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, India and Nepal, Stewart was promoted to International Development Secretary this month. Educated at the exclusive Eton College, Stewart was first elected to parliament in 2010 and backed remaining in the EU in the 2016 referendum. He opposes a 'no deal' exit and has been a vocal advocate of May's deal with Brussels. "I do want to bring this country together ... I accept Brexit, I am a Brexiteer, but I want to reach out to 'Remain' voters as well," he told the BBC. Expected to run: MICHAEL GOVE, 51 Gove, one of the highest-profile Brexit campaigners during the 2016 referendum, has had to rebuild his cabinet career after falling early to May in the contest to replace David Cameron, who resigned the day after losing the referendum. Seen as one of the most effective members of cabinet in bringing forward new policies, the high-energy environment minister has become a surprise ally to May and has backed her Brexit strategy. Gove teamed up with Johnson during the 2016 Brexit campaign only to pull his support for Johnson’s subsequent leadership bid at the last moment and run himself. He has not yet said whether he plans to run. JEREMY HUNT, 52 Hunt replaced Johnson as foreign minister in July and has urged the Conservative membership to set aside their differences over Brexit and unite against a common foe - the EU. Hunt voted to remain in the EU in the referendum. He served six years as Britain’s health minister, a role that has made him unpopular with many voters who work in or rely on the state-run, financially stretched National Health Service. Asked at a lunch with journalists in parliament if he planned to run for leader, he said: "Wait and see." ANDREA LEADSOM, 56 A pro-Brexit campaigner, Leadsom made it to the last two in the 2016 contest to replace Cameron. She withdrew after a backlash to an interview in which she said being a mother gave her more of a stake in the future of the country than her rival Theresa May. Leadsom quit as Leader of the House of Commons on Wednesday, saying she did not believe the government's approach would deliver on the Brexit referendum result. She has previously told broadcaster ITV she was "seriously considering standing" to replace May. DOMINIC RAAB, 45 Raab quit as May’s Brexit minister last year in protest at her draft exit agreement saying it did not match the promises the Conservative Party made in the 2017 election. Raab served only five months as head of the Brexit department. He had held junior ministerial roles since being elected in 2010. Raab, a black belt in karate, campaigned for Brexit. Asked if he would like to be prime minister, he said: "Never say never." SAJID JAVID, 49 Javid, a former banker and a champion of free markets, has served a number of cabinet roles and scores consistently well in polls of party members. A second-generation immigrant of Pakistani heritage, he has a portrait of late Conservative prime minister Margaret Thatcher on his office wall. Javid voted 'Remain' in the 2016 referendum but was previously considered to be eurosceptic. He has not said whether he plans to run but is considered to have been setting out his stall in speeches and media interviews. DAVID DAVIS, 70 Davis, a leading eurosceptic, was appointed Brexit minister to lead negotiations with the EU in July 2016 but resigned two years later in protest at May's plans for a long-term relationship with the bloc. He ran for the party's leadership in 2005 but lost to Cameron. PENNY MORDAUNT, 46 Mordaunt is one of the last remaining pro-Brexit members of May's cabinet. She became Britain's first female defence secretary this month. A Royal Navy reservist, Mordaunt was previously international development minister. Many had expected her to join the wave of resignations that followed the publication of May’s draft withdrawal deal. AMBER RUDD, 55 Rudd resigned as interior minister last year after facing outrage over her department's treatment of some long-term Caribbean residents wrongly labelled illegal immigrants. She backed 'Remain' in 2016 and has opposed a 'no deal' exit, meaning she could win support from pro-EU Conservative lawmakers. But she struggled to retain her seat at the 2017 election and has one of the smallest majorities in parliament. MATT HANCOCK, 40 Health minister Hancock, a former economist at the Bank of England, supported 'Remain' in 2016. First elected to parliament in 2010, he has held several ministerial roles. JUSTINE GREENING, 50 The former education minister told ITV she would consider running. Greening supports a second Brexit referendum. Many thought she might join several of her colleagues in quitting the party to form a pro-EU group in parliament earlier this year. LIZ TRUSS, 43 Chief Secretary to the Treasury, Truss has held several roles in government including environment minister and justice minister. She backed 'Remain' in 2016 but has said she has since changed her mind on Brexit. GRAHAM BRADY, 51 Brady is chair of the 1922 Committee of Conservative lawmakers. "It would take an awful lot of people to persuade me. I'm not sure many people are straining at the leash to take on what is an extraordinarily difficult situation," he told BBC Radio. KIT MALTHOUSE, 52 A former deputy mayor of London, Malthouse became a Member of Parliament in 2015. He is a junior housing minister and helped author the so-called Malthouse Compromise plan to replace the unpopular Irish backstop in Britain's EU exit deal with alternative arrangements to avoid a hard border. The Sun newspaper reported he was setting up a campaign team. JAMES CLEVERLY, 49 Cleverly was appointed a junior Brexit minister last month, having previously been deputy chair of the Conservative Party. He had a career in publishing before being elected to parliament in 2015. The Sun reported he was planning to run for leader.

Who wants to be Britain's next prime minister?

The British government on Thursday postponed a crucial Brexit vote scheduled for the first week of June, following an outcry from hardline Brexiteers over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/time-to-resign-uk-pm-mays-final-brexit-gambit-bombs-220672">concessions</a> made by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/theresa-mays-last-attempt-to-salvage-brexit-deal-at-risk-220596">Prime Minister Theresa May</a>.

The beleaguered premier is in the last throes of a tumultuous period in power focused all-but exclusively on guiding her fractured country out of the European Union.

"We will update the house on the publication and introduction of the Withdrawal Agreement Bill on our return from the Whitsun recess" on June 4, government official Mark Spencer told MPs.

Spencer said the government had planned to hold the vote on a landmark piece of legislation to implement Brexit on June 7 but had not been able to fix this date.

May is under intense pressure to resign after holding out the prospect of a parliamentary vote on a second referendum to try and persuade MPs to support the divorce deal she has struck with EU leaders.

The deal has already been rejected three times in parliament, forcing a delay to the planned date of Brexit on March 29, and still faces strong cross-party opposition.

'Brexit fiasco'

Meanwhile, there are already several leading Conservatives, including members of her own cabinet, who are campaigning to take over from May when she quits.

The prime minister's woes were made worse on Wednesday when Andrea Leadsom -- one of cabinet's strongest Brexit backers -- resigned from her post as the government's representative in parliament over her handling of the slowly-unfolding crisis.

"I no longer believe that our approach will deliver on the (2016) referendum results," Leadsom said in her resignation letter.

In her response May thanked Leadsom for her "passion, drive and sincerity", but took issue with her assessment of the government's Brexit strategy.

"I do not agree with you that the deal which we have negotiated with the European Union means that the United Kingdom will not become a sovereign country," May said.

Many of Thursday's newspaper front pages pictured May leaving Downing Street late on Wednesday apparently with tears in her eyes. "May set to go after Brexit fiasco," said The Sun tabloid.

Thursday's European elections are being interpreted in Britain as a referendum on Brexit and on May's ability to get the job done. They make grim reading for the government team, with Nigel Farage's Brexit Party well ahead in the polls.

The current deadline for Brexit set by EU leaders is October 31.

The Brexit Party and leading Conservatives are calling for Britain to leave the EU on that date without an overall deal but businesses fear this could cause severe disruption.

The British government on Thursday postponed a crucial Brexit vote scheduled for the first week of June, following an outcry from hardline Brexiteers over concessions made by Prime Minister Theresa May.

The British government on Thursday postponed a crucial Brexit vote scheduled for the first week of June, following an outcry from hardline Brexiteers over concessions made by Prime Minister Theresa May. The beleaguered premier is in the last throes of a tumultuous period in power focused all-but exclusively on guiding her fractured country out of the European Union. "We will update the house on the publication and introduction of the Withdrawal Agreement Bill on our return from the Whitsun recess" on June 4, government official Mark Spencer told MPs. Spencer said the government had planned to hold the vote on a landmark piece of legislation to implement Brexit on June 7 but had not been able to fix this date. May is under intense pressure to resign after holding out the prospect of a parliamentary vote on a second referendum to try and persuade MPs to support the divorce deal she has struck with EU leaders. The deal has already been rejected three times in parliament, forcing a delay to the planned date of Brexit on March 29, and still faces strong cross-party opposition. 'Brexit fiasco' Meanwhile, there are already several leading Conservatives, including members of her own cabinet, who are campaigning to take over from May when she quits. The prime minister's woes were made worse on Wednesday when Andrea Leadsom -- one of cabinet's strongest Brexit backers -- resigned from her post as the government's representative in parliament over her handling of the slowly-unfolding crisis. "I no longer believe that our approach will deliver on the (2016) referendum results," Leadsom said in her resignation letter. In her response May thanked Leadsom for her "passion, drive and sincerity", but took issue with her assessment of the government's Brexit strategy. "I do not agree with you that the deal which we have negotiated with the European Union means that the United Kingdom will not become a sovereign country," May said. Many of Thursday's newspaper front pages pictured May leaving Downing Street late on Wednesday apparently with tears in her eyes. "May set to go after Brexit fiasco," said The Sun tabloid. Thursday's European elections are being interpreted in Britain as a referendum on Brexit and on May's ability to get the job done. They make grim reading for the government team, with Nigel Farage's Brexit Party well ahead in the polls. The current deadline for Brexit set by EU leaders is October 31. The Brexit Party and leading Conservatives are calling for Britain to leave the EU on that date without an overall deal but businesses fear this could cause severe disruption.

British government postpones Brexit vote: Official

If Prime Minister Theresa May does not <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-theresa-may-expected-to-announce-her-departure-on-friday-report-220845">set a resignation date on Friday</a> there will be overwhelming pressure to change the Conservative Party`s rules over when her leadership can be challenged, the treasury of the party`s influential 1922 Committee was quoted as saying.

May survived a confidence vote in December and under current rules cannot be challenged again for 12 months. The 1922 Committee executive have so far decided against forcing through a change but the panel`s chair is due to meet May on Friday.&nbsp;

"I want her to give a timetable for when she will go. I think this blank denial from Number 10 today may be a smokescreen because she does not want to influence the outcome of the European elections. Maybe she will still quit tomorrow," Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, treasurer of the 1922 Committee told the Press Association, according the Guardian.

Asked what would happen if she did not announce a resignation date, he said: "There will be overwhelming pressure for the 22 to change the rules and hold a ballot on confidence in the prime minister."

If Prime Minister Theresa May does not set a resignation date on Friday there will be overwhelming pressure to change the Conservative Party`s rules over when her leadership can be challenged, the treasury of the party`s influential 1922 Committee was quoted as saying.

If Prime Minister Theresa May does not set a resignation date on Friday there will be overwhelming pressure to change the Conservative Party`s rules over when her leadership can be challenged, the treasury of the party`s influential 1922 Committee was quoted as saying. May survived a confidence vote in December and under current rules cannot be challenged again for 12 months. The 1922 Committee executive have so far decided against forcing through a change but the panel`s chair is due to meet May on Friday. "I want her to give a timetable for when she will go. I think this blank denial from Number 10 today may be a smokescreen because she does not want to influence the outcome of the European elections. Maybe she will still quit tomorrow," Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, treasurer of the 1922 Committee told the Press Association, according the Guardian. Asked what would happen if she did not announce a resignation date, he said: "There will be overwhelming pressure for the 22 to change the rules and hold a ballot on confidence in the prime minister."

Pressure for new confidence vote if PM May does not set exit date: 1922 treasurer

British Prime Minister Theresa May was under growing pressure to resign on Wednesday after her final <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/theresa-mays-last-attempt-to-salvage-brexit-deal-at-risk-220596">Brexit gambit</a> was rejected across the board by lawmakers and even criticised by some of her own ministers.

May's future, which she herself had curtailed by offering to resign to get her deal through parliament, was hanging by a thread after she softened her position on a second Brexit referendum and customs arrangements with the European Union.

The calls for her resignation further deepened Britain's Brexit crisis. Almost three years since Britain voted to leave the EU and just under two months after the scheduled departure, it is not clear when, how or even if Brexit will happen.

In her last pitch on Tuesday to get her divorce deal approved by Britain's deeply divided parliament, she offered lawmakers a vote on whether to hold a second Brexit referendum -- once her legislation passes the first stage -- as well as closer trading arrangements with the EU in future as incentives.

But the backlash was swift and fierce.

Both ruling Conservative and opposition Labour lawmakers criticised May's Withdrawal Agreement Bill, or WAB, legislation which implements the terms of Britain's twice-delayed departure.

"There is one last chance to get it right and leave in an orderly fashion. But it is now time for Prime Minister Theresa May to go -- and without delay," said Conservative lawmaker Tom Tugendhat, chairman of parliament's Foreign Affairs Select Committee.

"She must announce her resignation after Thursday's European (Parliament) elections," he wrote in the Financial Times.

May's latest offer has enraged eurosceptics opposed to a second referendum, and fails to go far enough for those who want to give the public another say in the hope of stopping Brexit altogether.

Even some of her ministers criticised the pitch, one source close to the cabinet said, explaining that they felt the concessions had gone much further than they had agreed at a meeting on Tuesday. Another source said May had cancelled meetings with senior cabinet colleagues on Wednesday evening.

STANDING FIRM

May stood firm during more than two hours of questions in parliament, urging lawmakers to back the bill and then have a chance to make changes to it, so they can have more control over the final shape of Brexit.

"In time another prime minister will be standing at this despatch box," May said, acknowledging that her leadership was drawing to a close.

"But while I am here, I have a duty to be clear with the House (of Commons) about the facts. If we are going to deliver Brexit in this parliament we are going to have to pass a Withdrawal Agreement Bill," she told MPs.

May has so far fended off attempts to oust her by promising to set out a departure timetable once parliament has had a chance to vote on the legislation.

Asked by eurosceptic lawmaker Jacob Rees-Mogg whether she really believed in the new deal she had proposed or whether she was simply going through the motions, May said:

"I don't think I would have been standing here at the despatch box and be in receipt of some of the comments I have been in receipt of from colleagues on my own side and across the house if I didn't believe in what I was doing."

"GOT TO GO"

Britain's marathon crisis over Brexit has stunned allies and foes alike. With the deadlock in London, the world's fifth-largest economy faces an array of options including an exit with a deal to smooth the transition, a no-deal exit, an election, a second referendum, or even revocation of the Article 50 notice to leave the EU.

The pound was on track for its longest-ever losing streak against the euro as some traders said they saw the rising chance of a no-deal Brexit. Those fears pushed investors into the relative safety of government bonds -- particularly those that offer protection against a spike in inflation.

There were some signs of support for May in parliament, but swathes of empty Conservative benches during Wednesday's debate underlined the fact that many of her fiercest critics had decided to stay away.

"The proposed second reading of the WAB is clearly doomed to failure so there really is no point wasting any more time on the prime minister's forlorn hope of salvation," Andrew Bridgen, a Conservative lawmaker, told Reuters. "She's got to go."

More Conservative lawmakers handed over letters to the 1922 Committee, a Conservative group that can make or break party leaders, to demand a no-confidence vote in May.

Asked about the pressure to resign, her spokesman said,"The PM is focused on the job in hand and what the last 24 hours or so have proved, it is a big one." 
&nbsp;

British Prime Minister Theresa May was under growing pressure to resign on Wednesday after her final Brexit gambit was rejected across the board by lawmakers and even criticised by some of her own ministers.

British Prime Minister Theresa May was under growing pressure to resign on Wednesday after her final Brexit gambit was rejected across the board by lawmakers and even criticised by some of her own ministers. May's future, which she herself had curtailed by offering to resign to get her deal through parliament, was hanging by a thread after she softened her position on a second Brexit referendum and customs arrangements with the European Union. The calls for her resignation further deepened Britain's Brexit crisis. Almost three years since Britain voted to leave the EU and just under two months after the scheduled departure, it is not clear when, how or even if Brexit will happen. In her last pitch on Tuesday to get her divorce deal approved by Britain's deeply divided parliament, she offered lawmakers a vote on whether to hold a second Brexit referendum -- once her legislation passes the first stage -- as well as closer trading arrangements with the EU in future as incentives. But the backlash was swift and fierce. Both ruling Conservative and opposition Labour lawmakers criticised May's Withdrawal Agreement Bill, or WAB, legislation which implements the terms of Britain's twice-delayed departure. "There is one last chance to get it right and leave in an orderly fashion. But it is now time for Prime Minister Theresa May to go -- and without delay," said Conservative lawmaker Tom Tugendhat, chairman of parliament's Foreign Affairs Select Committee. "She must announce her resignation after Thursday's European (Parliament) elections," he wrote in the Financial Times. May's latest offer has enraged eurosceptics opposed to a second referendum, and fails to go far enough for those who want to give the public another say in the hope of stopping Brexit altogether. Even some of her ministers criticised the pitch, one source close to the cabinet said, explaining that they felt the concessions had gone much further than they had agreed at a meeting on Tuesday. Another source said May had cancelled meetings with senior cabinet colleagues on Wednesday evening. STANDING FIRM May stood firm during more than two hours of questions in parliament, urging lawmakers to back the bill and then have a chance to make changes to it, so they can have more control over the final shape of Brexit. "In time another prime minister will be standing at this despatch box," May said, acknowledging that her leadership was drawing to a close. "But while I am here, I have a duty to be clear with the House (of Commons) about the facts. If we are going to deliver Brexit in this parliament we are going to have to pass a Withdrawal Agreement Bill," she told MPs. May has so far fended off attempts to oust her by promising to set out a departure timetable once parliament has had a chance to vote on the legislation. Asked by eurosceptic lawmaker Jacob Rees-Mogg whether she really believed in the new deal she had proposed or whether she was simply going through the motions, May said: "I don't think I would have been standing here at the despatch box and be in receipt of some of the comments I have been in receipt of from colleagues on my own side and across the house if I didn't believe in what I was doing." "GOT TO GO" Britain's marathon crisis over Brexit has stunned allies and foes alike. With the deadlock in London, the world's fifth-largest economy faces an array of options including an exit with a deal to smooth the transition, a no-deal exit, an election, a second referendum, or even revocation of the Article 50 notice to leave the EU. The pound was on track for its longest-ever losing streak against the euro as some traders said they saw the rising chance of a no-deal Brexit. Those fears pushed investors into the relative safety of government bonds -- particularly those that offer protection against a spike in inflation. There were some signs of support for May in parliament, but swathes of empty Conservative benches during Wednesday's debate underlined the fact that many of her fiercest critics had decided to stay away. "The proposed second reading of the WAB is clearly doomed to failure so there really is no point wasting any more time on the prime minister's forlorn hope of salvation," Andrew Bridgen, a Conservative lawmaker, told Reuters. "She's got to go." More Conservative lawmakers handed over letters to the 1922 Committee, a Conservative group that can make or break party leaders, to demand a no-confidence vote in May. Asked about the pressure to resign, her spokesman said,"The PM is focused on the job in hand and what the last 24 hours or so have proved, it is a big one."

Time to resign? UK PM Theresa May's final Brexit gambit bombs

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britains-may-offers-new-deal-to-try-to-break-brexit-deadlock-220480">British Prime Minister Theresa May</a>'s final bid to salvage her EU divorce deal appeared doomed on Wednesday as pro-Brexit Conservatives and opposition MPs rejected her attempts at a compromise to end months of deadlock.

The beleaguered leader is set to face a torrid session at Prime Minister's Questions in parliament on the eve of European elections that Britain had not even expected to take part in three years after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britains-brexit-talks-collapse-as-mays-premiership-crumbles-219710/amp">Brexit</a> referendum.

The poll could see the vote of the two main parties decimated.

May vowed Tuesday to give lawmakers a vote on holding a public referendum on Brexit if they approve her unpopular withdrawal agreement in a series of votes starting in early June.

She also dangled a package of other sweeteners to the deal aimed at opposition Labour MPs, in a bid to break trenchant opposition which has seen parliament reject her plan three times this year.

Watch: Prime Minister Theresa May offers a 'new' Brexit plan

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May has said she will leave office shortly after the measures she outlined are voted on -- no matter the outcome.

"I recognise the genuine and sincere strength of feeling across the house on this important issue," May said.

However, MPs from across the political spectrum reacted furiously to the prime minister's latest offer, with Conservative Brexiteers crying betrayal and Labour lawmakers saying she had not compromised enough.

In a sign of the scale of the backlash, Environment Secretary Michael Gove hinted that the vote in the week of June 3 may not go ahead after all.

"We will reflect over the course of the next few days on how people look at the proposition," he told BBC radio.

'A question of democracy'

May's offer comes as Britain votes in EU elections Thursday with the two main parties trailing behind the Brexit Party and the pro-EU Liberal Democrats, according to polls.

The latest YouGov survey showed eurosceptic populist Nigel Farage's new Brexit Party claiming 37 per cent of votes, with Labour in third on 19 per cent and the Tories lagging in fifth place with just seven per cent.

"If we win big on Thursday, we will kill off any prospect of parliament forcing a second referendum upon us because they know they would lose!" Farage told supporters at a final rally Tuesday.

Liberal Democrat leader Vince Cable, whose party is set to come second in the polls, told a party gathering on Tuesday that a vote for his party was "a vote to stop Brexit".

The pro-EU party's outright rejection of Brexit appears to be resonating with Remain voters who would normally back Labour or the Conservatives.

'Last chance'&nbsp;

May pitched her "new Brexit deal" as MPs' "last chance" to end political gridlock that has already delayed Britain's departure from the bloc past its original March deadline and prompted public anger.

The government is aiming for the law to be approved by the time parliament's summer recess begins on July 20, which would let the country leave at the end of that month -- as long as lawmakers reject a second referendum.

Otherwise, the process could be delayed until October 31 -- the deadline set by the EU -- or even later if its leaders grant Britain another postponement.

May on Tuesday set out a series of incentives for MPs to vote for her deal.

Some were in line with demands from Labour, but fell short of their full demands put forward during weeks of cross-party talks which ended in deadlock last week.

"The prime minister needs to today accept that what she announced yesterday is not going to work and pull the vote," the party's Brexit spokesman Keir Starmer said Wednesday.

'Must do better'

May's proposals threaten to further repel eurosceptics in her own Conservative Party.

Former foreign secretary Boris Johnson, the favourite to replace her as leader, said on Twitter he would not support the new package, having backed it last time it was put to parliament.

"We can and must do better -- and deliver what the people voted for," he said, rejecting the idea of any customs union or second referendum.

Analysts and British newspapers gave May little-to-no chance of winning on this occasion, with the eurosceptic Daily Telegraph calling her move: "Desperate, deluded, doomed."

British Prime Minister Theresa May's final bid to salvage her EU divorce deal appeared doomed on Wednesday as pro-Brexit Conservatives and opposition MPs rejected her attempts at a compromise to end months of deadlock.

British Prime Minister Theresa May's final bid to salvage her EU divorce deal appeared doomed on Wednesday as pro-Brexit Conservatives and opposition MPs rejected her attempts at a compromise to end months of deadlock. The beleaguered leader is set to face a torrid session at Prime Minister's Questions in parliament on the eve of European elections that Britain had not even expected to take part in three years after the Brexit referendum. The poll could see the vote of the two main parties decimated. May vowed Tuesday to give lawmakers a vote on holding a public referendum on Brexit if they approve her unpopular withdrawal agreement in a series of votes starting in early June. She also dangled a package of other sweeteners to the deal aimed at opposition Labour MPs, in a bid to break trenchant opposition which has seen parliament reject her plan three times this year. Watch: Prime Minister Theresa May offers a 'new' Brexit plan × May has said she will leave office shortly after the measures she outlined are voted on -- no matter the outcome. "I recognise the genuine and sincere strength of feeling across the house on this important issue," May said. However, MPs from across the political spectrum reacted furiously to the prime minister's latest offer, with Conservative Brexiteers crying betrayal and Labour lawmakers saying she had not compromised enough. In a sign of the scale of the backlash, Environment Secretary Michael Gove hinted that the vote in the week of June 3 may not go ahead after all. "We will reflect over the course of the next few days on how people look at the proposition," he told BBC radio. 'A question of democracy' May's offer comes as Britain votes in EU elections Thursday with the two main parties trailing behind the Brexit Party and the pro-EU Liberal Democrats, according to polls. The latest YouGov survey showed eurosceptic populist Nigel Farage's new Brexit Party claiming 37 per cent of votes, with Labour in third on 19 per cent and the Tories lagging in fifth place with just seven per cent. "If we win big on Thursday, we will kill off any prospect of parliament forcing a second referendum upon us because they know they would lose!" Farage told supporters at a final rally Tuesday. Liberal Democrat leader Vince Cable, whose party is set to come second in the polls, told a party gathering on Tuesday that a vote for his party was "a vote to stop Brexit". The pro-EU party's outright rejection of Brexit appears to be resonating with Remain voters who would normally back Labour or the Conservatives. 'Last chance' May pitched her "new Brexit deal" as MPs' "last chance" to end political gridlock that has already delayed Britain's departure from the bloc past its original March deadline and prompted public anger. The government is aiming for the law to be approved by the time parliament's summer recess begins on July 20, which would let the country leave at the end of that month -- as long as lawmakers reject a second referendum. Otherwise, the process could be delayed until October 31 -- the deadline set by the EU -- or even later if its leaders grant Britain another postponement. May on Tuesday set out a series of incentives for MPs to vote for her deal. Some were in line with demands from Labour, but fell short of their full demands put forward during weeks of cross-party talks which ended in deadlock last week. "The prime minister needs to today accept that what she announced yesterday is not going to work and pull the vote," the party's Brexit spokesman Keir Starmer said Wednesday. 'Must do better' May's proposals threaten to further repel eurosceptics in her own Conservative Party. Former foreign secretary Boris Johnson, the favourite to replace her as leader, said on Twitter he would not support the new package, having backed it last time it was put to parliament. "We can and must do better -- and deliver what the people voted for," he said, rejecting the idea of any customs union or second referendum. Analysts and British newspapers gave May little-to-no chance of winning on this occasion, with the eurosceptic Daily Telegraph calling her move: "Desperate, deluded, doomed."

Theresa May's last attempt to salvage Brexit deal at risk

A top member of Prime Minister Theresa May’s Conservative Party will tell her in the coming week that she must step down by the end of June or her lawmakers will try again to depose her, the Sunday Times reported, without citing sources.

May survived a vote of no confidence in December and although party rules mean lawmakers cannot challenge her again until a year has passed, lawmaker Graham Brady will tell her the rules will be changed unless she quits, the newspaper said.

Brady, who chairs the Conservative Party’s influential 1922 Committee of backbench lawmakers, will tell her that 70 percent of her members of parliament want her to resign over her handling of Brexit, the Sunday Times said.

Britain was originally due to leave the European Union on March 29, but that deadline was pushed back to April 12 and then again to Oct. 31 as May failed to break an impasse in parliament on the terms of Brexit.

A top member of Prime Minister Theresa May’s Conservative Party will tell her in the coming week that she must step down by the end of June or her lawmakers will try again to depose her, the Sunday Times reported, without citing sources.

A top member of Prime Minister Theresa May’s Conservative Party will tell her in the coming week that she must step down by the end of June or her lawmakers will try again to depose her, the Sunday Times reported, without citing sources. May survived a vote of no confidence in December and although party rules mean lawmakers cannot challenge her again until a year has passed, lawmaker Graham Brady will tell her the rules will be changed unless she quits, the newspaper said. Brady, who chairs the Conservative Party’s influential 1922 Committee of backbench lawmakers, will tell her that 70 percent of her members of parliament want her to resign over her handling of Brexit, the Sunday Times said. Britain was originally due to leave the European Union on March 29, but that deadline was pushed back to April 12 and then again to Oct. 31 as May failed to break an impasse in parliament on the terms of Brexit.

UK PM May to be told to quit by top Conservative: Report

British Prime Minister Theresa May said on Wednesday her opposition to holding a second Brexit referendum had not changed, but she expected some lawmakers may try to push for one during the process of ratifying her EU exit deal.

The Daily Telegraph reported earlier this week that May was considering offering lawmakers a vote on whether to hold a confirmatory public vote on her Brexit deal in a bid to break the deadlock in talks with the opposition Labour Party.

Asked by a lawmaker whether this had been offered during talks with Labour, May said: "My position on a second referendum, the government's position, has not changed."

"When we come to a deal, we will have to ensure that legislation goes through this House. Of course, it may be that there are those in this House that wish to press that issue as the legislation goes through."

British Prime Minister Theresa May said on Wednesday her opposition to holding a second Brexit referendum had not changed, but she expected some lawmakers may try to push for one during the process of ratifying her EU exit deal.

British Prime Minister Theresa May said on Wednesday her opposition to holding a second Brexit referendum had not changed, but she expected some lawmakers may try to push for one during the process of ratifying her EU exit deal. The Daily Telegraph reported earlier this week that May was considering offering lawmakers a vote on whether to hold a confirmatory public vote on her Brexit deal in a bid to break the deadlock in talks with the opposition Labour Party. Asked by a lawmaker whether this had been offered during talks with Labour, May said: "My position on a second referendum, the government's position, has not changed." "When we come to a deal, we will have to ensure that legislation goes through this House. Of course, it may be that there are those in this House that wish to press that issue as the legislation goes through."

UK PM May says view on second Brexit referendum has not changed

British MPs on Friday rejected Prime Minister Theresa May's<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-lawmakers-to-vote-for-pivotal-vote-on-mays-brexit-deal-206494"> EU divorce deal for a third time</a>, opening the way for a long delay to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/brexit-in-quotes-what-the-uk-leaders-have-said-since-the-2016-referendum-206443">Brexit</a> -- or a potentially catastophic "no deal" withdrawal in two weeks.

Lawmakers in parliament's lower House of Commons defied May's plea to end the political deadlock that has plunged Britain into crisis, and defeated her withdrawal agreement by 344 votes to 286.

It is yet another blow to a prime minister who has all but lost control of her <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/next-uk-pm-must-believe-in-brexit-former-conservative-leader-duncan-smith-206460">government </a>and the Brexit process -- particularly after she offered to quit if MPs backed the deal.

Britain had been due to leave the EU on Friday, the long-heralded March 29 "Independence Day", but faced with chaos in Westminster, May asked European leaders last week for a little more time.

She now faces having to return in the coming days to explain what happens next, with speculation in Brussels of an emergency summit on April 10 or 11.

The EU has set a deadline for April 12 for a decision, with two likely options: Britain leaves with no deal at all, or agrees a lengthy extension to allow time for a new approach.

May has said it would be "unacceptable" to ask voters to take part in forthcoming European Parliament elections, three years after they voted in a 2016 referendum to leave the EU.

But while "no deal" remains the default legal option, MPs have repeatedly voted against this, fearing catastrophe if Britain severs ties with its closest trading partner with no plan in place.

DUP holdouts

The failure by parliament to agree the terms of its exit from European Union has left Britain in limbo, with business leaders and trade unions warning of a "national emergency".

Voters are divided, many of them anxious and angry, and May blames MPs -- but they in turn accuse her of refusing to countenance any alternative to her unpopular deal.

"She is, frankly, unable to govern," opposition Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said, urging her "either to listen and change course or to go".

Tired of waiting, MPs this week gave themselves unprecedented powers to vote on a range of options for Britain's future relationship with the EU.

A prosal for a new customs union got close to passing in a first round on Wednesday, as did a plan for a referendum on May's deal, with more voting planned next Monday and Wednesday.

The risk that MPs decide to agree closer ties to the EU, or even stop it altogether, has focused the minds of some Brexit supporters, who reluctantly agreed to back May's deal.

Her offer on Wednesday to quit if it passes also helped persuade some of her staunchest critics, including former foreign minister Boris Johnson.

But others refused, including May's Northern Irish allies, the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), which says planned arrangements for the Irish border after Brexit are unacceptable.

"We are not prepared to see our constitutional position altered by Brussels in a fit of pique for daring to leave the EU," said MP Sammy Wilson, the DUP's Brexit spokesman.

Snap election?

May's offer to quit fired the starting gun on an informal race for the leadership of her Conservative party.

Her resignation was dependent on getting the divorce deal passed -- and she might try one last time to get her deal through.

Even so, her days are numbered.

Getting another vote on a deal would be tricky, as parliament speaker John Bercow has already warned he will not let her bring the same deal back again and again.

Under an agreement struck with EU leaders last week, Britain would have left on May 22 if MPs approved the deal this week.

Officials believe there is still a chance that, if she can get it through before April 12, this date is still possible.

However, speculation is also growing that the only way out of the impasse is a snap election.

British MPs on Friday rejected Prime Minister Theresa May's EU divorce deal for a third time, opening the way for a long delay to Brexit -- or a potentially catastophic "no deal" withdrawal in two weeks.

British MPs on Friday rejected Prime Minister Theresa May's EU divorce deal for a third time, opening the way for a long delay to Brexit -- or a potentially catastophic "no deal" withdrawal in two weeks. Lawmakers in parliament's lower House of Commons defied May's plea to end the political deadlock that has plunged Britain into crisis, and defeated her withdrawal agreement by 344 votes to 286. It is yet another blow to a prime minister who has all but lost control of her government and the Brexit process -- particularly after she offered to quit if MPs backed the deal. Britain had been due to leave the EU on Friday, the long-heralded March 29 "Independence Day", but faced with chaos in Westminster, May asked European leaders last week for a little more time. She now faces having to return in the coming days to explain what happens next, with speculation in Brussels of an emergency summit on April 10 or 11. The EU has set a deadline for April 12 for a decision, with two likely options: Britain leaves with no deal at all, or agrees a lengthy extension to allow time for a new approach. May has said it would be "unacceptable" to ask voters to take part in forthcoming European Parliament elections, three years after they voted in a 2016 referendum to leave the EU. But while "no deal" remains the default legal option, MPs have repeatedly voted against this, fearing catastrophe if Britain severs ties with its closest trading partner with no plan in place. DUP holdouts The failure by parliament to agree the terms of its exit from European Union has left Britain in limbo, with business leaders and trade unions warning of a "national emergency". Voters are divided, many of them anxious and angry, and May blames MPs -- but they in turn accuse her of refusing to countenance any alternative to her unpopular deal. "She is, frankly, unable to govern," opposition Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said, urging her "either to listen and change course or to go". Tired of waiting, MPs this week gave themselves unprecedented powers to vote on a range of options for Britain's future relationship with the EU. A prosal for a new customs union got close to passing in a first round on Wednesday, as did a plan for a referendum on May's deal, with more voting planned next Monday and Wednesday. The risk that MPs decide to agree closer ties to the EU, or even stop it altogether, has focused the minds of some Brexit supporters, who reluctantly agreed to back May's deal. Her offer on Wednesday to quit if it passes also helped persuade some of her staunchest critics, including former foreign minister Boris Johnson. But others refused, including May's Northern Irish allies, the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), which says planned arrangements for the Irish border after Brexit are unacceptable. "We are not prepared to see our constitutional position altered by Brussels in a fit of pique for daring to leave the EU," said MP Sammy Wilson, the DUP's Brexit spokesman. Snap election? May's offer to quit fired the starting gun on an informal race for the leadership of her Conservative party. Her resignation was dependent on getting the divorce deal passed -- and she might try one last time to get her deal through. Even so, her days are numbered. Getting another vote on a deal would be tricky, as parliament speaker John Bercow has already warned he will not let her bring the same deal back again and again. Under an agreement struck with EU leaders last week, Britain would have left on May 22 if MPs approved the deal this week. Officials believe there is still a chance that, if she can get it through before April 12, this date is still possible. However, speculation is also growing that the only way out of the impasse is a snap election.

British MPs reject PM Theresa May's Brexit deal for third time

Aides to British Prime Minister Theresa May are discussing a&nbsp;timetable for her to resign but could delay the announcement of her intention to quit until after a&nbsp;third vote by parliament on her <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/heres-how-brexit-endgame-could-play-out-205678">Brexit </a>plan, the Financial Times said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-to-vote-on-brexit-options-206010">British MPs to vote on Brexit options</a>

"This would avoid the unseemly impression that some Tory MPs, eg Boris (Johnson), were backing the deal for base motives," the FT's political editor George Parker said on Twitter.

There would be an understanding that May would announce her departure when or if eurosceptic lawmakers in her Conservative Party back her <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-vote-to-seize-control-of-brexit-for-a-day-205630">deal </a>and it clears parliament, he said.

May's deal negotiated with Brussels has already been voted down overwhelmingly by parliament twice but the government is widely expected to present it for a third time on Thursday to ensure an orderly Brexit. 
&nbsp;

Aides to British Prime Minister Theresa May are discussing a timetable for her to resign but could delay the announcement of her intention to quit until after a third vote by parliament on her Brexit plan, the Financial Times said.

Aides to British Prime Minister Theresa May are discussing a timetable for her to resign but could delay the announcement of her intention to quit until after a third vote by parliament on her Brexit plan, the Financial Times said. Also read: British MPs to vote on Brexit options "This would avoid the unseemly impression that some Tory MPs, eg Boris (Johnson), were backing the deal for base motives," the FT's political editor George Parker said on Twitter. There would be an understanding that May would announce her departure when or if eurosceptic lawmakers in her Conservative Party back her deal and it clears parliament, he said. May's deal negotiated with Brussels has already been voted down overwhelmingly by parliament twice but the government is widely expected to present it for a third time on Thursday to ensure an orderly Brexit.

Theresa May might not announce resignation until lawmakers back Brexit deal: Report

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-vote-to-seize-control-of-brexit-for-a-day-205630">British MPs</a> will on Wednesday hold votes on various <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/heres-how-brexit-endgame-could-play-out-205678">Brexit </a>options even as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/theresa-may-might-not-announce-resignation-until-lawmakers-back-brexit-deal-report-206004">Prime Minister Theresa May </a>comes under pressure to announce a departure plan to get support for her unpopular divorce deal.

Three years after a referendum in which Britain voted to leave the European Union, the country is gripped by painful uncertainty over how -- or even whether -- it should put an end to its 46-year membership.

May's deal negotiated with Brussels has already been voted down overwhelmingly by parliament twice but the government is widely expected to present it for a third time on Thursday to ensure an orderly<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/can-the-revoke-article-50-petition-change-the-course-of-brexit-205739"> Brexit</a>.

EU leaders said Britain could leave the EU on May 22 if the deal is adopted this week, or face a potential no-deal Brexit as early as April 12.

In a bid to find Brexit alternatives, lawmakers took the unprecedented step on Monday of seizing control of Wednesday's parliamentary business.

MPs will hold a series of "indicative votes" -- indicating their preferences on a piece of paper -- for different Brexit outcomes, although May is not legally-bound to follow their instructions.

The proposals put forward so include a customs union with the EU, remaining in the single market, holding a second referendum or stopping Brexit by revoking Article 50 -- the formal notification for departure.

The alternatives that will actually be voted on will be selected by speaker John Bercow on Wednesday and voting will take place at around 1900 GMT with the results expected at around 2100 GMT.

Time has been set aside next Monday to try and whittle down the most popular options to a final plan.

'Get it over the line'

Parliament's unprecedented power-grab was spearheaded by arch-EU MPs, who want to either reverse Brexit or preserve much closer economic ties with the remaining 27 states.

Three members of May's government quit in order to vote for the move, further piling pressure on their leader.

However, she received a boost on Tuesday when influential Brexiteer Jacob Rees Mogg suggested he could back her deal in order to make sure the whole process was not stopped.

Prominent Brexit supporter Boris Johnson has already indicated that he could back the deal, but only if May agrees to go, raising suggestions that she could announce plans for her departure at a meeting with Conservative MPs at 1700 GMT on Wednesday.

"If the Prime Minister announces a timetable of departure, I think that's going to swing a lot of people behind her deal, we could get it over the line," said Conservative MP Nigel Evans.

'Toxic Brexit'

But the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), the hardline Northern Irish power brokers who prop up the government, have poured cold water on the deal.

The group's Brexit spokesman Sammy Wilson said the party would rather see a one-year Brexit delay.

"Even if we are forced into a one-year extension, we at least would have a say on the things which affect us during that time and would have the right to unilaterally decide to leave at the end of that one-year," he wrote in the Daily Telegraph.

"We won't let the PM or the Remainer horde in parliament bully us into backing a toxic Brexit," he said.

Britain was originally due to exit from the EU on March 29, and MPs will vote on Wednesday to formalise the extension into law.

It has already been written into international law and is expected to pass easily, with May's office saying that "there would be uncertainty for citizens and businesses" if MPs were to reject it.

A group of Brexit-supporting MPs, however, has said that holding the vote after the delay had already entered international law "created serious legal doubts about the legal situation surrounding the extension".

British MPs will on Wednesday hold votes on various Brexit options even as Prime Minister Theresa May comes under pressure to announce a departure plan to get support for her unpopular divorce deal.

British MPs will on Wednesday hold votes on various Brexit options even as Prime Minister Theresa May comes under pressure to announce a departure plan to get support for her unpopular divorce deal. Three years after a referendum in which Britain voted to leave the European Union, the country is gripped by painful uncertainty over how -- or even whether -- it should put an end to its 46-year membership. May's deal negotiated with Brussels has already been voted down overwhelmingly by parliament twice but the government is widely expected to present it for a third time on Thursday to ensure an orderly Brexit. EU leaders said Britain could leave the EU on May 22 if the deal is adopted this week, or face a potential no-deal Brexit as early as April 12. In a bid to find Brexit alternatives, lawmakers took the unprecedented step on Monday of seizing control of Wednesday's parliamentary business. MPs will hold a series of "indicative votes" -- indicating their preferences on a piece of paper -- for different Brexit outcomes, although May is not legally-bound to follow their instructions. The proposals put forward so include a customs union with the EU, remaining in the single market, holding a second referendum or stopping Brexit by revoking Article 50 -- the formal notification for departure. The alternatives that will actually be voted on will be selected by speaker John Bercow on Wednesday and voting will take place at around 1900 GMT with the results expected at around 2100 GMT. Time has been set aside next Monday to try and whittle down the most popular options to a final plan. 'Get it over the line' Parliament's unprecedented power-grab was spearheaded by arch-EU MPs, who want to either reverse Brexit or preserve much closer economic ties with the remaining 27 states. Three members of May's government quit in order to vote for the move, further piling pressure on their leader. However, she received a boost on Tuesday when influential Brexiteer Jacob Rees Mogg suggested he could back her deal in order to make sure the whole process was not stopped. Prominent Brexit supporter Boris Johnson has already indicated that he could back the deal, but only if May agrees to go, raising suggestions that she could announce plans for her departure at a meeting with Conservative MPs at 1700 GMT on Wednesday. "If the Prime Minister announces a timetable of departure, I think that's going to swing a lot of people behind her deal, we could get it over the line," said Conservative MP Nigel Evans. 'Toxic Brexit' But the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), the hardline Northern Irish power brokers who prop up the government, have poured cold water on the deal. The group's Brexit spokesman Sammy Wilson said the party would rather see a one-year Brexit delay. "Even if we are forced into a one-year extension, we at least would have a say on the things which affect us during that time and would have the right to unilaterally decide to leave at the end of that one-year," he wrote in the Daily Telegraph. "We won't let the PM or the Remainer horde in parliament bully us into backing a toxic Brexit," he said. Britain was originally due to exit from the EU on March 29, and MPs will vote on Wednesday to formalise the extension into law. It has already been written into international law and is expected to pass easily, with May's office saying that "there would be uncertainty for citizens and businesses" if MPs were to reject it. A group of Brexit-supporting MPs, however, has said that holding the vote after the delay had already entered international law "created serious legal doubts about the legal situation surrounding the extension".

British MPs to vote on Brexit options

British lawmakers <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-rejects-prime-minister-theresa-mays-brexit-deal-by-149-votes-202966">crushed Prime Minister Theresa May's European Union divorce deal</a> on Tuesday, thrusting Britain deeper into crisis and forcing parliament to decide within days whether to back a no-deal Brexit or seek a last-minute delay.

Lawmakers voted against May's amended Brexit deal by 391 to 242 as her last-minute talks with EU chiefs on Monday to assuage her critics' concerns ultimately proved fruitless.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/theresa-mays-brexit-deal-defeat-plunges-uk-into-complete-uncertainty-203013">Also Read:&nbsp;Theresa May's Brexit deal defeat plunges </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/theresa-mays-brexit-deal-defeat-plunges-uk-into-complete-uncertainty-203013">UK</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/theresa-mays-brexit-deal-defeat-plunges-uk-into-complete-uncertainty-203013"> into complete uncertainty</a>

Remain supporters celebrated outside parliament on news that May's deal was rejected, but a leave supporter called the process of exiting the European Union a "farce".

The vote puts the world's fifth largest economy in uncharted territory with no obvious way forward; exiting the EU without a deal, delaying the March 29 divorce date, a snap election or even another referendum are all now possible.

In a tweet, the European Union's Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier said the EU will not negotiate Brexit again.

"Listening to debate in @HouseofCommons : there seems to be a dangerous illusion that the UK can benefit from a transition in the absence of the WA (Withdrawal Agreement). Let me be clear: the only legal basis for a transition is the WA. No withdrawal agreement means no transition," Barnier wrote on his Twitter page.

In a separate tweet, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said he regretted the outcome of the vote adding that the "EU continues to stand by the Withdrawal Agreement, including the backstop."

The bloc insists the divorce deal - already rejected by parliament in January - will not be revisited.

It expects Prime Minister Theresa May to ask for a delay to Brexit to avoid economic disruption should Britain leave with no plan in place.

British lawmakers crushed Prime Minister Theresa May's European Union divorce deal on Tuesday, thrusting Britain deeper into crisis and forcing parliament to decide within days whether to back a no-deal Brexit or seek a last-minute delay.

British lawmakers crushed Prime Minister Theresa May's European Union divorce deal on Tuesday, thrusting Britain deeper into crisis and forcing parliament to decide within days whether to back a no-deal Brexit or seek a last-minute delay. Lawmakers voted against May's amended Brexit deal by 391 to 242 as her last-minute talks with EU chiefs on Monday to assuage her critics' concerns ultimately proved fruitless. Also Read: Theresa May's Brexit deal defeat plunges UK into complete uncertainty Remain supporters celebrated outside parliament on news that May's deal was rejected, but a leave supporter called the process of exiting the European Union a "farce". The vote puts the world's fifth largest economy in uncharted territory with no obvious way forward; exiting the EU without a deal, delaying the March 29 divorce date, a snap election or even another referendum are all now possible. In a tweet, the European Union's Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier said the EU will not negotiate Brexit again. "Listening to debate in @HouseofCommons : there seems to be a dangerous illusion that the UK can benefit from a transition in the absence of the WA (Withdrawal Agreement). Let me be clear: the only legal basis for a transition is the WA. No withdrawal agreement means no transition," Barnier wrote on his Twitter page. In a separate tweet, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said he regretted the outcome of the vote adding that the "EU continues to stand by the Withdrawal Agreement, including the backstop." The bloc insists the divorce deal - already rejected by parliament in January - will not be revisited. It expects Prime Minister Theresa May to ask for a delay to Brexit to avoid economic disruption should Britain leave with no plan in place.

UK parliament rejection of May's deal deepens Brexit division

British Prime Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-mays-top-lawyer-struggles-for-brexit-deal-in-brussels-201431">Theresa May</a> put the onus on the European Union to make concessions over the thorny issue of the Irish backstop in Brexit talks, or risk Britain leaving the EU without a deal, which she said would be against EU interests.

The two sides are at an impasse over the so-called backstop aimed at ensuring that there is a frictionless border between Northern Ireland and Ireland - the only land frontier between the United Kingdom and the bloc.

May is seeking legally binding assurances that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/united-kingdom-eyes-weekend-talks-to-break-brexit-deadlock-201827">Britain</a> will not be trapped permanently in the backstop in order to win support for her exit deal, which was defeated by a record margin in parliament in January.

Lawmakers will vote again on the deal next week, and May will say on Friday that the EU that should give ground in discussions over the backstop before then to help the deal go through.

"Just as MPs will face a big choice next week, the EU has to make a choice, too. We are both participants in this process. It is in the European interest for the UK to leave with a deal," May will say in a speech in Grimsby, northern England, according to pre-released extracts.

"We are working with them but the decisions that the European Union makes over the next few days will have a big impact on the outcome of the vote." 
May`s top lawyer returned empty handed from negotiations in Brussels this week.

The European Union has told Britain to rework its Irish backstop proposal by Friday, but a British source said on Thursday that the Brexit impasse was unlikely to be broken before the weekend because the EU was not moving.

But foreign minister Jeremy Hunt said he was hopeful that there would be success in negotiations at the weekend, in time for the parliamentary vote.

Keir Starmer, Brexit spokesman for the opposition Labour party, said it was "increasingly clear Theresa May will not be able to deliver the changes she promised to her failed Brexit deal."&nbsp;

"This speech looks set to be an admission of failure," he said.

British Prime Minister Theresa May put the onus on the European Union to make concessions over the thorny issue of the Irish backstop in Brexit talks, or risk Britain leaving the EU without a deal, which she said would be against EU interests.

British Prime Minister Theresa May put the onus on the European Union to make concessions over the thorny issue of the Irish backstop in Brexit talks, or risk Britain leaving the EU without a deal, which she said would be against EU interests. The two sides are at an impasse over the so-called backstop aimed at ensuring that there is a frictionless border between Northern Ireland and Ireland - the only land frontier between the United Kingdom and the bloc. May is seeking legally binding assurances that Britain will not be trapped permanently in the backstop in order to win support for her exit deal, which was defeated by a record margin in parliament in January. Lawmakers will vote again on the deal next week, and May will say on Friday that the EU that should give ground in discussions over the backstop before then to help the deal go through. "Just as MPs will face a big choice next week, the EU has to make a choice, too. We are both participants in this process. It is in the European interest for the UK to leave with a deal," May will say in a speech in Grimsby, northern England, according to pre-released extracts. "We are working with them but the decisions that the European Union makes over the next few days will have a big impact on the outcome of the vote." May`s top lawyer returned empty handed from negotiations in Brussels this week. The European Union has told Britain to rework its Irish backstop proposal by Friday, but a British source said on Thursday that the Brexit impasse was unlikely to be broken before the weekend because the EU was not moving. But foreign minister Jeremy Hunt said he was hopeful that there would be success in negotiations at the weekend, in time for the parliamentary vote. Keir Starmer, Brexit spokesman for the opposition Labour party, said it was "increasingly clear Theresa May will not be able to deliver the changes she promised to her failed Brexit deal." "This speech looks set to be an admission of failure," he said.

Agree to backstop changes or risk disorderly Brexit: Theresa May warns EU

With Prime Minister Theresa May on Tuesday asking <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uk-parliament-will-not-vote-on-revised-brexit-deal-this-week-pm-mays-office-196962">MPs to give her more time for talks with Brussels </a>to renegotiate her Brexit deal, it remains unclear how Britain will leave the European Union.

EU officials have ruled out re-opening the withdrawal agreement -- the legally binding part of the Brexit deal -- but British officials are hopeful that some compromise will be found.

Three ultimate scenarios remain -- leaving the European Union with a version of the existing deal, crashing out with no deal, or no Brexit at all.

Here are five potential next steps:

Try to alter the deal

MPs last month roundly rejected the deal negotiated by May in the biggest ever parliamentary defeat for a government.

The key sticking point is the agreement's "backstop" solution to keep the Irish border open, which has the potential to leave Britain indefinitely tied to some form of EU customs union.

Brexit hardliners from the Conservative Party's European Research Group have urged May to try and secure legally-binding changes to the backstop.

Northern Ireland's Democratic Unionist Party, which May relies on for a majority in parliament, has also said it will not vote for a deal with the backstop as it stands.

The main opposition Labour Party has signalled that it could support the deal if the government commits to a permanent customs union with the EU but May has ruled this out.

EU leaders have said they are willing to talk further, including on plans for the future trading relationship, but have repeatedly said they will not reopen the withdrawal agreement itself.

No deal

Britain is legally on track to leave the EU with or without a deal on March 29, unless it delays or stops the process.

Leaving with no deal in place threatens to trigger a recession in Britain and markedly slow the EU's economic growth, as well as causing significant legal disruption.

One of the world's biggest economies could lose preferential access to its largest export market overnight, affecting every sector, leading to rising costs and disruption at British ports.

Delay

Speculation has been growing that the government will instead seek to postpone the Brexit process.

Government ministers have spoken of a technical extension but some reports have suggested the delay could be two or three months or even longer.

Political analysts argue lawmakers could still back such a postponement further down the line -- although all the other 27 EU countries would have to agree.

A potential complication is that elections to the European Parliament are due in late May and the new chamber is set to sit on July 2. Some of Britain's 73 seats have already been reallocated.

Brussels also may not be so keen if the delay would simply translate into more months of political gridlock.

Second referendum

Dozens of MPs are seeking a new referendum to reverse the 2016 result, when the Leave campaign won by 52 per cent to 48 per cent.

But supporters admit they do not currently have the numbers in parliament to make it happen.

No law prevents Britain from doing it all over again, but many question whether a re-run would be democratic -- or resolve anything.

May has warned that another vote "would do irreparable damage to the integrity of our politics".

It also threatens to be just as divisive as the last one, with opinion polls showing the country is still split over the issue. Brussels also may not be so keen if the delay would simply translate into more months of political gridlock.

General election

It is a long shot but some reports have suggested the prime minister could call a snap vote in a bid to break the impasse.

The most recent polls indicate the Conservatives could win a slender majority, meaning that the political rough-and-tumble seen since the 2016 referendum would likely continue.&nbsp;

The only other way for an election to be called would be for parliament to vote no confidence in the government, but at this stage it looks unlikely as Labour already tried and failed to pass such a vote last month. 
&nbsp;

With Prime Minister Theresa May on Tuesday asking MPs to give her more time for talks with Brussels to renegotiate her Brexit deal, it remains unclear how Britain will leave the European Union.

With Prime Minister Theresa May on Tuesday asking MPs to give her more time for talks with Brussels to renegotiate her Brexit deal, it remains unclear how Britain will leave the European Union. EU officials have ruled out re-opening the withdrawal agreement -- the legally binding part of the Brexit deal -- but British officials are hopeful that some compromise will be found. Three ultimate scenarios remain -- leaving the European Union with a version of the existing deal, crashing out with no deal, or no Brexit at all. Here are five potential next steps: Try to alter the deal MPs last month roundly rejected the deal negotiated by May in the biggest ever parliamentary defeat for a government. The key sticking point is the agreement's "backstop" solution to keep the Irish border open, which has the potential to leave Britain indefinitely tied to some form of EU customs union. Brexit hardliners from the Conservative Party's European Research Group have urged May to try and secure legally-binding changes to the backstop. Northern Ireland's Democratic Unionist Party, which May relies on for a majority in parliament, has also said it will not vote for a deal with the backstop as it stands. The main opposition Labour Party has signalled that it could support the deal if the government commits to a permanent customs union with the EU but May has ruled this out. EU leaders have said they are willing to talk further, including on plans for the future trading relationship, but have repeatedly said they will not reopen the withdrawal agreement itself. No deal Britain is legally on track to leave the EU with or without a deal on March 29, unless it delays or stops the process. Leaving with no deal in place threatens to trigger a recession in Britain and markedly slow the EU's economic growth, as well as causing significant legal disruption. One of the world's biggest economies could lose preferential access to its largest export market overnight, affecting every sector, leading to rising costs and disruption at British ports. Delay Speculation has been growing that the government will instead seek to postpone the Brexit process. Government ministers have spoken of a technical extension but some reports have suggested the delay could be two or three months or even longer. Political analysts argue lawmakers could still back such a postponement further down the line -- although all the other 27 EU countries would have to agree. A potential complication is that elections to the European Parliament are due in late May and the new chamber is set to sit on July 2. Some of Britain's 73 seats have already been reallocated. Brussels also may not be so keen if the delay would simply translate into more months of political gridlock. Second referendum Dozens of MPs are seeking a new referendum to reverse the 2016 result, when the Leave campaign won by 52 per cent to 48 per cent. But supporters admit they do not currently have the numbers in parliament to make it happen. No law prevents Britain from doing it all over again, but many question whether a re-run would be democratic -- or resolve anything. May has warned that another vote "would do irreparable damage to the integrity of our politics". It also threatens to be just as divisive as the last one, with opinion polls showing the country is still split over the issue. Brussels also may not be so keen if the delay would simply translate into more months of political gridlock. General election It is a long shot but some reports have suggested the prime minister could call a snap vote in a bid to break the impasse. The most recent polls indicate the Conservatives could win a slender majority, meaning that the political rough-and-tumble seen since the 2016 referendum would likely continue. The only other way for an election to be called would be for parliament to vote no confidence in the government, but at this stage it looks unlikely as Labour already tried and failed to pass such a vote last month.

Uncertainty over Brexit deal continues as Theresa May asks MPs to give her more time

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/theresa-mays-brexit-deal-finally-wins-majority-support-in-parliament-193817">British Prime Minister Theresa May</a> said on Sunday she would be "armed with a fresh mandate and new ideas" when she meets European Union negotiators over her <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/britains-may-faces-defeat-in-parliament-over-brexit-plan-190530">Brexit deal.</a>

EU officials have insisted that the deal is not open for renegotiation.

But May wrote in the Sunday Telegraph that she would be "battling for Britain and Northern Ireland" in her efforts to get rid of the agreement's unpopular backstop provision.

"If we stand together and speak with one voice, I believe we can find the right way forward," she said.

The backstop is intended to ensure there is no return to a hard border with Ireland, but Brexit supporters fear it will keep Britain tied to the EU's customs rules.

MPs voted last week to send May back to Brussels to renegotiate the clause, suggesting her deal would then be able to pass after it was roundly rejected in parliament last month.

"I am now confident there is a route that can secure a majority in the House of Commons for leaving the EU with a deal," she wrote.

"When I return to Brussels I will be battling for Britain and Northern Ireland, I will be armed with a fresh mandate, new ideas and a renewed determination to agree on a pragmatic solution".

The EU insists that the deal "remains the best and only way to ensure an orderly withdrawal," but with the clock running down until the March 29 exit date the risks of a no-deal Brexit for both Britain and the bloc are coming into sharp focus.

May said opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn "also believes the potential indefinite nature of the backstop is an issue", and that the EU has "already accepted the principle of 'alternative arrangements' superseding the backstop should it ever be required."

The backstop would kick in if Britain and the EU have not agreed to a trade deal on their future relationship after a time-limited transition period of up to two years.

The prime minister rejected accusations that plans to reopen the backstop talks risked upsetting the Irish peace process.

"Nor do I have time for those who believe the verdict passed by the British people in 2016 should be overturned before it is even implemented," she added, referring to the rump of MPs calling for a second referendum.

"I'm determined to deliver Brexit, and determined to deliver on time — on March 29, 2019," she wrote.

May has promised MPs that she will bring any revised deal back to be voted on by MPs on February 13.

British Prime Minister Theresa May said on Sunday she would be "armed with a fresh mandate and new ideas" when she meets European Union negotiators over her Brexit deal.

British Prime Minister Theresa May said on Sunday she would be "armed with a fresh mandate and new ideas" when she meets European Union negotiators over her Brexit deal. EU officials have insisted that the deal is not open for renegotiation. But May wrote in the Sunday Telegraph that she would be "battling for Britain and Northern Ireland" in her efforts to get rid of the agreement's unpopular backstop provision. "If we stand together and speak with one voice, I believe we can find the right way forward," she said. The backstop is intended to ensure there is no return to a hard border with Ireland, but Brexit supporters fear it will keep Britain tied to the EU's customs rules. MPs voted last week to send May back to Brussels to renegotiate the clause, suggesting her deal would then be able to pass after it was roundly rejected in parliament last month. "I am now confident there is a route that can secure a majority in the House of Commons for leaving the EU with a deal," she wrote. "When I return to Brussels I will be battling for Britain and Northern Ireland, I will be armed with a fresh mandate, new ideas and a renewed determination to agree on a pragmatic solution". The EU insists that the deal "remains the best and only way to ensure an orderly withdrawal," but with the clock running down until the March 29 exit date the risks of a no-deal Brexit for both Britain and the bloc are coming into sharp focus. May said opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn "also believes the potential indefinite nature of the backstop is an issue", and that the EU has "already accepted the principle of 'alternative arrangements' superseding the backstop should it ever be required." The backstop would kick in if Britain and the EU have not agreed to a trade deal on their future relationship after a time-limited transition period of up to two years. The prime minister rejected accusations that plans to reopen the backstop talks risked upsetting the Irish peace process. "Nor do I have time for those who believe the verdict passed by the British people in 2016 should be overturned before it is even implemented," she added, referring to the rump of MPs calling for a second referendum. "I'm determined to deliver Brexit, and determined to deliver on time — on March 29, 2019," she wrote. May has promised MPs that she will bring any revised deal back to be voted on by MPs on February 13.

UK's May says she is 'armed with fresh' Brexit mandate

British Prime Minister Theresa May will miss next week's annual World Economic Forum meeting in Davos to focus on Brexit negotiations, sending ministers in her place, Downing Street said on Thursday.

"She will not be going to Davos. She will be focused on matters here," May's spokeswoman said, adding that "there will be government ministers attending".

Downing Street noted May's absence at the yearly gathering of world and industry leaders in the Swiss Alps resort was not unprecedented for a British premier.

Former prime minister David Cameron also missed the 2013 and 2015 events, the spokeswoman said.

The prime minister is scrambling to put together a new Brexit strategy after lawmakers on Tuesday sparked political turmoil by rejecting her draft withdrawal agreement with the EU.

Britain is scheduled to leave the bloc after 46 years on March 29.

British Prime Minister Theresa May will miss next week's annual World Economic Forum meeting in Davos to focus on Brexit negotiations, sending ministers in her place, Downing Street said on Thursday.

British Prime Minister Theresa May will miss next week's annual World Economic Forum meeting in Davos to focus on Brexit negotiations, sending ministers in her place, Downing Street said on Thursday. "She will not be going to Davos. She will be focused on matters here," May's spokeswoman said, adding that "there will be government ministers attending". Downing Street noted May's absence at the yearly gathering of world and industry leaders in the Swiss Alps resort was not unprecedented for a British premier. Former prime minister David Cameron also missed the 2013 and 2015 events, the spokeswoman said. The prime minister is scrambling to put together a new Brexit strategy after lawmakers on Tuesday sparked political turmoil by rejecting her draft withdrawal agreement with the EU. Britain is scheduled to leave the bloc after 46 years on March 29.

Britain's May to miss Davos to focus on Brexit: Downing Street

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/fineprint-will-lawmakers-frustrate-uk-pm-theresa-may-190281">Britain's parliament</a> is debating whether to support Prime Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/this-is-the-best-deal-possible-and-is-worthy-of-their-support-may-on-brexit-deal-190260">Theresa May's Brexit deal</a>, a decision which will define Britain`s departure from the European Union and set the course for the country`s economy.

The odds look stacked against May winning parliamentary approval for her deal, which has come under fire from all sides, including eurosceptics, supporters of the EU and the Northern Irish party propping up her minority Conservative government.

Below is a running tally of the number of lawmakers who have indicated during the first four days of a five-day debate whether they will support the Brexit deal on January 15.&nbsp;

Lawmakers are entitled to change their mind before the vote, and some who speak are yet to make a final decision on the deal.

There are a total of 650 lawmakers in parliament. Of those, around 100 are government ministers and Conservative Party enforcers, or whips, who are required to support the deal and so are not included in the tally.&nbsp;

May's Conservative Party has 317 lawmakers. It governs with a working majority of 13 thanks to a deal with the 10 lawmakers of the Northern Irish Democratic Unionist Party.

Lawmakers who have indicated they will support the deal: 44

Lawmakers who have indicated they will oppose the deal: 115(including 34 of May's Conservative lawmakers)

Britain's parliament is debating whether to support Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit deal, a decision which will define Britain`s departure from the European Union and set the course for the country`s economy.

Britain's parliament is debating whether to support Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit deal, a decision which will define Britain`s departure from the European Union and set the course for the country`s economy. The odds look stacked against May winning parliamentary approval for her deal, which has come under fire from all sides, including eurosceptics, supporters of the EU and the Northern Irish party propping up her minority Conservative government. Below is a running tally of the number of lawmakers who have indicated during the first four days of a five-day debate whether they will support the Brexit deal on January 15. Lawmakers are entitled to change their mind before the vote, and some who speak are yet to make a final decision on the deal. There are a total of 650 lawmakers in parliament. Of those, around 100 are government ministers and Conservative Party enforcers, or whips, who are required to support the deal and so are not included in the tally. May's Conservative Party has 317 lawmakers. It governs with a working majority of 13 thanks to a deal with the 10 lawmakers of the Northern Irish Democratic Unionist Party. Lawmakers who have indicated they will support the deal: 44 Lawmakers who have indicated they will oppose the deal: 115(including 34 of May's Conservative lawmakers)

Britain's Brexit vote: How many lawmakers are backing PM May?

Prime Minister Theresa May said on Sunday that Britain would be in uncharted territory if her Brexit deal is rejected by parliament later this month, despite little sign that she has won over sceptical lawmakers.

Britain is due to leave the EU on March 29 but May's inability so far to get her deal for a managed exit through parliament has alarmed business leaders and investors who fear the country is heading for a damaging no-deal Brexit.

May said the vote in parliament would be around January 15, as expected, contrary to reports she could delay it.

May has already delayed the vote once, in December, when it became clear she would lose unless extra reassurances from the EU were agreed.

Describing what would happen if she was defeated, May told the BBC: "We're going to be in uncharted territory. I don't think anybody can say exactly what will happen in terms of the reaction we'll see in parliament."

Amid the uncertainty over Britain's next steps - which range from leaving without a deal to not leaving at all - a poll showed more Britons want to remain a member of the EU than leave, and voters want to make the final decision themselves.

May's party itself is divided over its support for her deal, with many fearing that an insurance policy designed to avoid the re-emergence of a hard border between Ireland and Northern Ireland could leave Britain subject to EU rules indefinitely.

One of those leading that opposition, lawmaker Jacob Rees-Mogg, said in a newspaper article that it was "wishful thinking" that time away from parliament over the Christmas holiday could persuade him to change his mind and back the deal.

Work to do

With the parliamentary debate on her deal due to begin on January 9, May said there was still work to do to get reassurances over the backstop from the EU. She also promised parliament would have a greater say in the rest of the Brexit process and warned that rejecting her deal could prevent Britain's exit.

"Don't let the search for the perfect become the enemy of the good, because the danger there is actually we end up with no Brexit at all," May said.

She did not answer whether she would, if defeated, make a second attempt to get the deal passed by parliament.

May also did not directly respond, when asked, if she was leading the country toward a no-deal Brexit, but repeated her objections to holding a fresh public vote on the deal.

She said a second referendum would be divisive and disrespectful to those who voted to leave in the initial vote, and also highlighted the lack of time available to hold a new referendum.

"Practically, actually you couldn't get a referendum in time before the 29th of March - you'd be talking about extending Article 50," she said, referring to the two-year exit notice Britain sent to the EU in March 2017.

Prime Minister Theresa May said on Sunday that Britain would be in uncharted territory if her Brexit deal is rejected by parliament later this month, despite little sign that she has won over sceptical lawmakers.

Prime Minister Theresa May said on Sunday that Britain would be in uncharted territory if her Brexit deal is rejected by parliament later this month, despite little sign that she has won over sceptical lawmakers. Britain is due to leave the EU on March 29 but May's inability so far to get her deal for a managed exit through parliament has alarmed business leaders and investors who fear the country is heading for a damaging no-deal Brexit. May said the vote in parliament would be around January 15, as expected, contrary to reports she could delay it. May has already delayed the vote once, in December, when it became clear she would lose unless extra reassurances from the EU were agreed. Describing what would happen if she was defeated, May told the BBC: "We're going to be in uncharted territory. I don't think anybody can say exactly what will happen in terms of the reaction we'll see in parliament." Amid the uncertainty over Britain's next steps - which range from leaving without a deal to not leaving at all - a poll showed more Britons want to remain a member of the EU than leave, and voters want to make the final decision themselves. May's party itself is divided over its support for her deal, with many fearing that an insurance policy designed to avoid the re-emergence of a hard border between Ireland and Northern Ireland could leave Britain subject to EU rules indefinitely. One of those leading that opposition, lawmaker Jacob Rees-Mogg, said in a newspaper article that it was "wishful thinking" that time away from parliament over the Christmas holiday could persuade him to change his mind and back the deal. Work to do With the parliamentary debate on her deal due to begin on January 9, May said there was still work to do to get reassurances over the backstop from the EU. She also promised parliament would have a greater say in the rest of the Brexit process and warned that rejecting her deal could prevent Britain's exit. "Don't let the search for the perfect become the enemy of the good, because the danger there is actually we end up with no Brexit at all," May said. She did not answer whether she would, if defeated, make a second attempt to get the deal passed by parliament. May also did not directly respond, when asked, if she was leading the country toward a no-deal Brexit, but repeated her objections to holding a fresh public vote on the deal. She said a second referendum would be divisive and disrespectful to those who voted to leave in the initial vote, and also highlighted the lack of time available to hold a new referendum. "Practically, actually you couldn't get a referendum in time before the 29th of March - you'd be talking about extending Article 50," she said, referring to the two-year exit notice Britain sent to the EU in March 2017.

PM May says if Brexit deal is rejected, UK will be in uncharted territory

What happens to the Brexit process now, as <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-to-vote-on-brexit-deal-before-january-21-183259">Prime Minister Theresa May</a> fights a challenge to her leadership?

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/may-tours-europe-in-desperate-bid-to-save-brexit-deal-183199">embattled leader toured European capitals on Tuesday</a> in an attempt to seek concessions on her Brexit deal, less than four months before the March 29 date when Britain is set to leave the European Union.

But the EU has vowed not to budge, and she came home to a potential leadership challenge.

She said she will contest Wednesday's challenge and, if victorious, plans to table a vote on her Brexit deal sometime before January 21.

If she loses, the leadership election could take days or even weeks into the New Year and could potentially derail the Brexit timetable.

Here are some of the most probable scenarios:

Tweaks to the deal

Victory for May over her rebel MPs will mean she cannot face another no-confidence challenge from within her party for 12 months, giving her some breathing space as she attempts to tweak her deal and get it through parliament.

May held talks with European counterparts on Tuesday seeking "further assurances" over the so-called "backstop plan" for the Irish border as she attempts to drum up support for her deal.

She will meet with EU leaders to discuss Brexit during a summit in Brussels on Thursday.

European sources privately say only clarifications or tweaks in the accompanying declaration on post-Brexit ties might be possible.

But that could be enough to sway MPs, particularly if the extended uncertainty takes a disastrous toll on the economy and financial markets.

Norway option

If her deal is rejected, MPs are set to take more control over the whole process. They could push for a "plan B", which would see Britain adopt a softer Brexit, such as staying in the EU's satellite trading bloc the European Economic Area -- the so-called Norway option.

Although being in the single market would require maintaining freedom of movement of EU citizens into Britain -- a contentious issue for pro-Brexit voters -- this approach is considered more likely to command a majority in parliament and potentially pass a vote.

Another potential obstacle, however, is that Britain would have to continue paying large amounts of money into the EU budget, which would prove hugely unpopular.

No-deal Brexit

Britain has legislated to leave the European Union on March 29, 2019, after triggering Article 50 -- the treaty mechanism used to exit the bloc -- two years prior. &nbsp;

May has warned that if MPs vote down her plan the country risks crashing out on this date with no agreement.

That would sever ties overnight with Britain's closest trading partner, amid fears of grounded flights, medicine shortages and gridlocked ports and motorways.

If May loses Wednesday's vote, most of the favourites to replace her are pro-Brexit, increasing the chances that Britain would leave without a deal.

Second referendum

Calls for a new referendum now attract cross-party support from dozens of MPs.

May has repeatedly ruled out another vote, but could face pressure to call one if Britain slips into political paralysis. 
Supporters of a second referendum received a boost from the European Court of Justice on Monday, which ruled that Britain has the unilateral right to revoke its Brexit decision.

It could take weeks to elect a new leader if May is deposed, and Justice Secretary David Gauke warned on Wednesday that this could lead to the deadline being extended.

General election

The prime minister could try to break the parliamentary deadlock by calling a general election -- but would need the backing of two-thirds of all MPs.

Even if she survives Wednesday's party vote, a simple majority of all lawmakers could also topple her government with a vote of no confidence, with some opposition MPs on Monday calling for such a move in parliament.

But a Labour spokesperson said that the party would only submit such a motion "when we judge it most likely to be successful".

Losing a confidence vote tabled by the opposition could lead to the formation of a new government -- possibly a coalition of parties with a new leader -- if MPs agreed on it within two weeks.

Otherwise, a general election would be called.

What happens to the Brexit process now, as Prime Minister Theresa May fights a challenge to her leadership? The embattled leader toured European capitals on Tuesday in an attempt to seek concessions on her Brexit deal, less than four months before the March 29 date when Britain is set to leave the European Union.

What happens to the Brexit process now, as Prime Minister Theresa May fights a challenge to her leadership? The embattled leader toured European capitals on Tuesday in an attempt to seek concessions on her Brexit deal, less than four months before the March 29 date when Britain is set to leave the European Union. But the EU has vowed not to budge, and she came home to a potential leadership challenge. She said she will contest Wednesday's challenge and, if victorious, plans to table a vote on her Brexit deal sometime before January 21. If she loses, the leadership election could take days or even weeks into the New Year and could potentially derail the Brexit timetable. Here are some of the most probable scenarios: Tweaks to the deal Victory for May over her rebel MPs will mean she cannot face another no-confidence challenge from within her party for 12 months, giving her some breathing space as she attempts to tweak her deal and get it through parliament. May held talks with European counterparts on Tuesday seeking "further assurances" over the so-called "backstop plan" for the Irish border as she attempts to drum up support for her deal. She will meet with EU leaders to discuss Brexit during a summit in Brussels on Thursday. European sources privately say only clarifications or tweaks in the accompanying declaration on post-Brexit ties might be possible. But that could be enough to sway MPs, particularly if the extended uncertainty takes a disastrous toll on the economy and financial markets. Norway option If her deal is rejected, MPs are set to take more control over the whole process. They could push for a "plan B", which would see Britain adopt a softer Brexit, such as staying in the EU's satellite trading bloc the European Economic Area -- the so-called Norway option. Although being in the single market would require maintaining freedom of movement of EU citizens into Britain -- a contentious issue for pro-Brexit voters -- this approach is considered more likely to command a majority in parliament and potentially pass a vote. Another potential obstacle, however, is that Britain would have to continue paying large amounts of money into the EU budget, which would prove hugely unpopular. No-deal Brexit Britain has legislated to leave the European Union on March 29, 2019, after triggering Article 50 -- the treaty mechanism used to exit the bloc -- two years prior. May has warned that if MPs vote down her plan the country risks crashing out on this date with no agreement. That would sever ties overnight with Britain's closest trading partner, amid fears of grounded flights, medicine shortages and gridlocked ports and motorways. If May loses Wednesday's vote, most of the favourites to replace her are pro-Brexit, increasing the chances that Britain would leave without a deal. Second referendum Calls for a new referendum now attract cross-party support from dozens of MPs. May has repeatedly ruled out another vote, but could face pressure to call one if Britain slips into political paralysis. Supporters of a second referendum received a boost from the European Court of Justice on Monday, which ruled that Britain has the unilateral right to revoke its Brexit decision. It could take weeks to elect a new leader if May is deposed, and Justice Secretary David Gauke warned on Wednesday that this could lead to the deadline being extended. General election The prime minister could try to break the parliamentary deadlock by calling a general election -- but would need the backing of two-thirds of all MPs. Even if she survives Wednesday's party vote, a simple majority of all lawmakers could also topple her government with a vote of no confidence, with some opposition MPs on Monday calling for such a move in parliament. But a Labour spokesperson said that the party would only submit such a motion "when we judge it most likely to be successful". Losing a confidence vote tabled by the opposition could lead to the formation of a new government -- possibly a coalition of parties with a new leader -- if MPs agreed on it within two weeks. Otherwise, a general election would be called.

What next for Brexit as May faces leadership battle?

British Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit deal was condemned as "a huge step into the unknown" by a committee of lawmakers responsible for scrutinising it, in the latest blow to her efforts to win parliamentary approval for it this week.&nbsp;

May is battling to win support for a Brexit deal which will define both the UK`s departure from the bloc and her future as leader. Current forecasts suggest she will lose the vote in parliament on Tuesday.&nbsp;

The critical report by the cross-party Committee on Exiting the European Union, agreed unanimously and published on Sunday, will help lawmakers decide how to vote, said the committee's chairman Hilary Benn.

"This deal would represent a huge step into the unknown," added Benn.

"It does not give the British people or our businesses the clarity and the certainty they need about our future trading relationship with the EU in five or ten years` time."

A summary of the report listed over a dozen problems with the deal in its current form including the backstop - the mechanism intended to ensure there is no return to a hard border between British-ruled Northern Ireland and EU-member Ireland, an element of the deal which has come in for some of the heaviest lawmaker criticism.

"Activating the backstop would result in immediate barriers to UK-EU trade in goods and services ... the UK could face the threat of significant economic disruption which would reduce its leverage in the negotiations," the report said.&nbsp;

It also said May`s deal had avoided making choices about the future relationship with the EU, meaning that negotiations would be needed which would likely go on for "a number of years".&nbsp;

The deal did not set out realistic or workable objectives for the future relationship between Britain and the EU, it added.&nbsp;

"If the government`s main priority is to secure EU-UK trade that is as frictionless as possible, it must decide how far it is willing to follow EU rules. This is not a choice the government has so far been willing to make," the report said.&nbsp;

British Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit deal was condemned as "a huge step into the unknown" by a committee of lawmakers responsible for scrutinising it, in the latest blow to her efforts to win parliamentary approval for it this week.

British Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit deal was condemned as "a huge step into the unknown" by a committee of lawmakers responsible for scrutinising it, in the latest blow to her efforts to win parliamentary approval for it this week. May is battling to win support for a Brexit deal which will define both the UK`s departure from the bloc and her future as leader. Current forecasts suggest she will lose the vote in parliament on Tuesday. The critical report by the cross-party Committee on Exiting the European Union, agreed unanimously and published on Sunday, will help lawmakers decide how to vote, said the committee's chairman Hilary Benn. "This deal would represent a huge step into the unknown," added Benn. "It does not give the British people or our businesses the clarity and the certainty they need about our future trading relationship with the EU in five or ten years` time." A summary of the report listed over a dozen problems with the deal in its current form including the backstop - the mechanism intended to ensure there is no return to a hard border between British-ruled Northern Ireland and EU-member Ireland, an element of the deal which has come in for some of the heaviest lawmaker criticism. "Activating the backstop would result in immediate barriers to UK-EU trade in goods and services ... the UK could face the threat of significant economic disruption which would reduce its leverage in the negotiations," the report said. It also said May`s deal had avoided making choices about the future relationship with the EU, meaning that negotiations would be needed which would likely go on for "a number of years". The deal did not set out realistic or workable objectives for the future relationship between Britain and the EU, it added. "If the government`s main priority is to secure EU-UK trade that is as frictionless as possible, it must decide how far it is willing to follow EU rules. This is not a choice the government has so far been willing to make," the report said.

Brexit lawmakers' committee slams May's deal in latest blow ahead of vote

Britain`s post-Brexit immigration system will enable businesses to bring in high-skilled workers from the rest of the world, but firms should also do more to train up young British people, Prime Minister Theresa May said.

Immigration was a major issue in the 2016 vote to leave the European Union and May has promised to end the free movement of EU citizens to live in Britain.

The government is due to publish a policy paper soon setting out how the new immigration system will work, and many businesses are worried about their ability to hire staff with the right skills post-Brexit.

"We are talking to business about their needs ... What I hope to see and what I`m sure we will be seeing is opportunities for young people in the UK, opportunities for training and skilling young people in the UK," May told reporters at the G20 summit in Argentina.

"We recognise that there are businesses who want to bring people in from the rest of the world, particularly in highly skilled areas and our immigration system will reflect that."

In September, a government-commissioned report recommended Britain should not give preferential treatment to EU workers in its post-Brexit immigration system but should prioritise the higher-skilled.&nbsp;

Britain`s post-Brexit immigration system will enable businesses to bring in high-skilled workers from the rest of the world, but firms should also do more to train up young British people, Prime Minister Theresa May said.

Britain`s post-Brexit immigration system will enable businesses to bring in high-skilled workers from the rest of the world, but firms should also do more to train up young British people, Prime Minister Theresa May said. Immigration was a major issue in the 2016 vote to leave the European Union and May has promised to end the free movement of EU citizens to live in Britain. The government is due to publish a policy paper soon setting out how the new immigration system will work, and many businesses are worried about their ability to hire staff with the right skills post-Brexit. "We are talking to business about their needs ... What I hope to see and what I`m sure we will be seeing is opportunities for young people in the UK, opportunities for training and skilling young people in the UK," May told reporters at the G20 summit in Argentina. "We recognise that there are businesses who want to bring people in from the rest of the world, particularly in highly skilled areas and our immigration system will reflect that." In September, a government-commissioned report recommended Britain should not give preferential treatment to EU workers in its post-Brexit immigration system but should prioritise the higher-skilled.

UK business will be able to bring in high-skilled workers post-Brexit: PM May

Spain was standing between Theresa May and a Brexit deal as it threatened to derail an EU summit on Sunday if it does not get new assurances on having a say in the future of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/explainer-what-you-need-to-know-about-gibraltar-in-brexit-talks-178603">Gibraltar</a>.

As talks among Spanish, British and EU officials continued on Saturday, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said he was ready to thwart his British counterpart May's hopes of seeing EU leaders sign off on promises of close ties with London after Britain leaves the bloc in March if he did not get his way.

EU diplomats and officials said there was still no clear breakthrough on Saturday morning, hours before some of the other leaders must set off for Brussels ahead of Sunday's breakfast summit -- few will be happy if plans change.

Brussels diplomats and representatives of other governments across Europe said they did not believe Madrid would upset the careful choreography of Sunday's summitry, when May and her 27 EU peers will fly in for a couple of hours in the morning. But they also heard strong words from Spanish ministers that left them unwilling to call Sanchez's bluff without further talks.

On a visit to Cuba, Sanchez said he had yet to receive assurances that any future decisions on Gibraltar would be decided in direct talks between London and Madrid.

"The guarantees are still not enough and Spain maintains its veto to Brexit. If there is a deal, then it will be lifted," he said when it was already late on Friday in Europe. "If there is no deal ... the European Council will most likely not take place."

Spain can expect its European allies to swing more clearly behind its 300-year-old claims to sovereignty over "The Rock", a British naval base on its southern coast that is home to some 30,000 people whose economy faces major questions after Brexit.

But demands that extensive treaty documentation recently agreed between Brussels and London be tweaked to give Spain a bigger say over its implementation in regard to Gibraltar face resistance from Britain and EU allies who are wary that the whole edifice of the long-negotiated deal might unravel.

"Proud People"

Diplomats said there was no doubting the passion behind the Spanish arguments when advisers to the 27 EU leaders met in Brussels on Friday to prepare the summit: "The Spanish are very proud people and this is absolutely important for them," one participant in the talks told Reuters.

"We have to have a solution. I am quite sure we will have one."

Some in Brussels stress that Sanchez is fighting a regional election in Andalusia, the province that abuts Gibraltar, next weekend and may want to play up the issue for home consumption.

For him to force the cancellation of the summit, or drag it out beyond the morning, would incur the wrath of his peers.

May is due to meet EU chief executive Jean-Claude Juncker on Saturday at 6 pm (1700 GMT), and diplomats say that should be the moment they confirm that the Gibraltar issue is settled. May will then meet summit chair Donald Tusk.

In Germany, a government spokesman was confident a solution would be found in time for Sunday's summit.

Berlin had earlier said there could be no more technical negotiations at the summit, and that Chancellor Angela Merkel could skip it if all the texts are not ready in advance.

The biggest obstacle to the Brexit accord overall is the vehement opposition in the British parliament. Without its approval, Britain could leave the bloc on March 29 without an agreement to mitigate economic and legal disruption.

Spain was standing between Theresa May and a Brexit deal as it threatened to derail an EU summit on Sunday if it does not get new assurances on having a say in the future of Gibraltar.

Spain was standing between Theresa May and a Brexit deal as it threatened to derail an EU summit on Sunday if it does not get new assurances on having a say in the future of Gibraltar. As talks among Spanish, British and EU officials continued on Saturday, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said he was ready to thwart his British counterpart May's hopes of seeing EU leaders sign off on promises of close ties with London after Britain leaves the bloc in March if he did not get his way. EU diplomats and officials said there was still no clear breakthrough on Saturday morning, hours before some of the other leaders must set off for Brussels ahead of Sunday's breakfast summit -- few will be happy if plans change. Brussels diplomats and representatives of other governments across Europe said they did not believe Madrid would upset the careful choreography of Sunday's summitry, when May and her 27 EU peers will fly in for a couple of hours in the morning. But they also heard strong words from Spanish ministers that left them unwilling to call Sanchez's bluff without further talks. On a visit to Cuba, Sanchez said he had yet to receive assurances that any future decisions on Gibraltar would be decided in direct talks between London and Madrid. "The guarantees are still not enough and Spain maintains its veto to Brexit. If there is a deal, then it will be lifted," he said when it was already late on Friday in Europe. "If there is no deal ... the European Council will most likely not take place." Spain can expect its European allies to swing more clearly behind its 300-year-old claims to sovereignty over "The Rock", a British naval base on its southern coast that is home to some 30,000 people whose economy faces major questions after Brexit. But demands that extensive treaty documentation recently agreed between Brussels and London be tweaked to give Spain a bigger say over its implementation in regard to Gibraltar face resistance from Britain and EU allies who are wary that the whole edifice of the long-negotiated deal might unravel. "Proud People" Diplomats said there was no doubting the passion behind the Spanish arguments when advisers to the 27 EU leaders met in Brussels on Friday to prepare the summit: "The Spanish are very proud people and this is absolutely important for them," one participant in the talks told Reuters. "We have to have a solution. I am quite sure we will have one." Some in Brussels stress that Sanchez is fighting a regional election in Andalusia, the province that abuts Gibraltar, next weekend and may want to play up the issue for home consumption. For him to force the cancellation of the summit, or drag it out beyond the morning, would incur the wrath of his peers. May is due to meet EU chief executive Jean-Claude Juncker on Saturday at 6 pm (1700 GMT), and diplomats say that should be the moment they confirm that the Gibraltar issue is settled. May will then meet summit chair Donald Tusk. In Germany, a government spokesman was confident a solution would be found in time for Sunday's summit. Berlin had earlier said there could be no more technical negotiations at the summit, and that Chancellor Angela Merkel could skip it if all the texts are not ready in advance. The biggest obstacle to the Brexit accord overall is the vehement opposition in the British parliament. Without its approval, Britain could leave the bloc on March 29 without an agreement to mitigate economic and legal disruption.

Spain bars May's way to Brussels Brexit deal

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa unveiled a limited cabinet reshuffle Thursday ahead of elections in May when the ruling ANC party will seek to turn around its decline in popularity.

In the most significant of three appointments, Siyabonga Cwele, 60, was moved from the telecommunications ministry to replace former home affairs minister Malusi Gigaba.

Gigaba -- who resigned last week -- was an ally of former president Jacob Zuma, who was ousted earlier this year by the ANC amid mounting graft scandals.

Announcing the changes, Ramaphosa said he wanted "an appropriate mix" of experience, capability, gender and generation in his cabinet.

The late environmental affairs minister Edna Molewa, who died in September, was replaced by former communications minister Nomvula Mokonyane, 55.

In a sign of Ramaphosa's wish to slim down the government, Stella Ndabeni Abrahams, 41, was named head of a new department merging communications, telecommunications and the postal services.

"The merging is the first wave," Ramaphosa said.

The ANC has dominated South African politics since the end of apartheid but has seen its vote share fall in recent elections.

Ramaphosa will lead the party in next year's general election which comes as the country grapples with stubbornly high unemployment and slow growth.

The South African Reserve Bank on Thursday raised the benchmark lending rate for the first time in more than two years, as it balances price rises with the weak economy.

South Africa, Africa's most advanced economy, slipped into recession in the second quarter of this year.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa unveiled a limited cabinet reshuffle Thursday ahead of elections in May when the ruling ANC party will seek to turn around its decline in popularity.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa unveiled a limited cabinet reshuffle Thursday ahead of elections in May when the ruling ANC party will seek to turn around its decline in popularity. In the most significant of three appointments, Siyabonga Cwele, 60, was moved from the telecommunications ministry to replace former home affairs minister Malusi Gigaba. Gigaba -- who resigned last week -- was an ally of former president Jacob Zuma, who was ousted earlier this year by the ANC amid mounting graft scandals. Announcing the changes, Ramaphosa said he wanted "an appropriate mix" of experience, capability, gender and generation in his cabinet. The late environmental affairs minister Edna Molewa, who died in September, was replaced by former communications minister Nomvula Mokonyane, 55. In a sign of Ramaphosa's wish to slim down the government, Stella Ndabeni Abrahams, 41, was named head of a new department merging communications, telecommunications and the postal services. "The merging is the first wave," Ramaphosa said. The ANC has dominated South African politics since the end of apartheid but has seen its vote share fall in recent elections. Ramaphosa will lead the party in next year's general election which comes as the country grapples with stubbornly high unemployment and slow growth. The South African Reserve Bank on Thursday raised the benchmark lending rate for the first time in more than two years, as it balances price rises with the weak economy. South Africa, Africa's most advanced economy, slipped into recession in the second quarter of this year.

South Africa president tweaks cabinet ahead of May election

Prime Minister Theresa May will face a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/factbox-who-has-submitted-letters-of-no-confidence-in-uk-pm-may-177703">no-confidence vote</a> next week with Conservative lawmakers expected to submit the 48 letters required to trigger a leadership contest on Friday, a reporter at the Daily Telegraph said.

May could face the no-confidence vote on Tuesday, Telegraph Chief Political Correspondent Christopher Hope said on Twitter, citing Brexiteer sources.

Some lawmakers in Prime Minister Theresa May's Conservative Party have said they have submitted letters of no confidence in the British leader.

A leadership challenge is triggered if 48 Conservatives write such letters to the chairman of the party`s so-called 1922 committee, Graham Brady.

May could be toppled if 158 of her 315 lawmakers vote against her.

Brady has not said how many letters have been submitted. It is not clear how he would announce any vote.

&nbsp;

Prime Minister Theresa May will face a no-confidence vote next week with Conservative lawmakers expected to submit the 48 letters required to trigger a leadership contest on Friday, a reporter at the Daily Telegraph said.

Prime Minister Theresa May will face a no-confidence vote next week with Conservative lawmakers expected to submit the 48 letters required to trigger a leadership contest on Friday, a reporter at the Daily Telegraph said. May could face the no-confidence vote on Tuesday, Telegraph Chief Political Correspondent Christopher Hope said on Twitter, citing Brexiteer sources. Some lawmakers in Prime Minister Theresa May's Conservative Party have said they have submitted letters of no confidence in the British leader. A leadership challenge is triggered if 48 Conservatives write such letters to the chairman of the party`s so-called 1922 committee, Graham Brady. May could be toppled if 158 of her 315 lawmakers vote against her. Brady has not said how many letters have been submitted. It is not clear how he would announce any vote.

UK PM May will face no confidence vote next week: Report

Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May said Wednesday that an internationally negotiated accord with Iran was the&nbsp;best way to prevent Tehran from developing nuclear weapons despite Washington's withdrawal from the 2015 agreement.

While addressing the United Nations Security Council on Wednesday, May said, "It remains the best means of preventing Iran developing a nuclear weapon and we are committed to preserving the JCPOA as long as Iran continues to abide by its obligations in full".

Meanwhile,&nbsp;US President Donald Trump took his campaign to isolate Iran to the UN Security Council Wednesday.

He, accusing Tehran of spreading chaos at a meeting that laid bare divisions between Washington and key allies.

As chairman of a session of the top UN body, Trump denounced the "horrible, one-sided" nuclear deal with Iran that he ditched in May, to the dismay of European allies.

Trump vowed that re-imposed sanctions will be "in full force" and urged world powers to work with the United States to "ensure the Iranian regime changes its behavior and never acquires a nuclear bomb."

Addressing the council afer Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron hit back, declaring that concerns about Iran cannot be reduced to "a policy of sanctions and containment" that was in place for years before the landmark deal.

The United States has moved to reimpose sanctions that had been lifted under the 2015 deal to curb Iran's nuclear program and has vowed to punish foreign firms that do business with Iran.

(With inputs from AFP)

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Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May said Wednesday that an internationally negotiated accord with Iran was the best way to prevent Tehran from developing nuclear weapons despite Washington's withdrawal from the 2015 agreement.

Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May said Wednesday that an internationally negotiated accord with Iran was the best way to prevent Tehran from developing nuclear weapons despite Washington's withdrawal from the 2015 agreement. While addressing the United Nations Security Council on Wednesday, May said, "It remains the best means of preventing Iran developing a nuclear weapon and we are committed to preserving the JCPOA as long as Iran continues to abide by its obligations in full". Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump took his campaign to isolate Iran to the UN Security Council Wednesday. He, accusing Tehran of spreading chaos at a meeting that laid bare divisions between Washington and key allies. As chairman of a session of the top UN body, Trump denounced the "horrible, one-sided" nuclear deal with Iran that he ditched in May, to the dismay of European allies. Trump vowed that re-imposed sanctions will be "in full force" and urged world powers to work with the United States to "ensure the Iranian regime changes its behavior and never acquires a nuclear bomb." Addressing the council afer Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron hit back, declaring that concerns about Iran cannot be reduced to "a policy of sanctions and containment" that was in place for years before the landmark deal. The United States has moved to reimpose sanctions that had been lifted under the 2015 deal to curb Iran's nuclear program and has vowed to punish foreign firms that do business with Iran. (With inputs from AFP)

2015 deal still best way to avoid nuclear-armed Iran: Theresa May

India's retail inflation jumped further in May to a four-month high, primarily driven by a surge in energy prices, according to a Reuters poll of economists, suggesting more policy tightening from the central bank is coming.

On June 6, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) raised the repo rate for the first time since 2014, by 25 basis points to 6.25 percent, as recent data showed significant increases for both inflation and growth. But the central bank kept its "neutral" policy stance unchanged.

Mounting price pressure is a concern for the RBI, with its own projections for inflation raised compared with the ones made in May.

The poll of more than 30 economists taken June 4-8 showed annual consumer price inflation likely increased to 4.83 percent last month, the highest since January and above April's 4.58 percent.

If that predicted pace is realised, May will be the seventh month in a row with inflation higher than the RBI's medium-term target of 4 percent.

"Consumer price inflation is likely to have accelerated in May, due in large part to a rise in fuel inflation," noted Shilan Shah, a senior India economist at Capital Economics. "Core inflation will also have remained elevated, and this is likely to be the case for some time."

Poll forecasts for the data, due to be released on Tuesday June 12 at 1200 GMT, ranged from 4.1 percent to 5.7 percent.

Oil prices hit a 3-1/2-year high last month, led by increasing worries of supply constraints from U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw from the 2015 Iran nuclear agreement.

India imports almost 80 percent of its oil needs and that surge poses a threat not just to inflation but also to the recovering economy, which still is the fastest-growing major economy.

"Rising crude prices would not only impact headline inflation but would also put pressure on price levels as the twin deficit goes up," noted Kunal Kundu, an economist at Societe Generale, referring to India's budget and current account gaps.

The government's plan to increase rural spending and the minimum support price for farmers ahead of general elections next year will exacerbate price pressures, and is likely to blow out the fiscal deficit target.

What has also not helped is the weakening rupee, which has shed 5.7 percent against the dollar this year.

The currency's fall is also inflationary, and increases concern about capital outflows from Asia's third-largest economy - another reason that some expect more rate hikes by the RBI.

The poll also showed the wholesale prices index likely hit a six-month high of 3.82 percent in May.

"The outlook for core inflation suggests that (the June 6) rate hike by the central bank marks the start of a modest tightening cycle rather than being a case of a one-off move," noted Shah. "We are penciling in two further 25 basis point increases in the repo rate over the next six months or so."

The poll also predicted industrial output to have risen 5.2 percent in April from a year earlier, up from 4.4 percent in March. That was likely driven by the increase in output of eight core factories - which account for nearly 40 percent of total industrial production - by 4.7 percent in April from a year earlier. The March increase was 4.4 percent.

On June 6, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) raised the repo rate for the first time since 2014, by 25 basis points to 6.25 percent, as recent data showed significant increases for both inflation and growth. But the central bank kept its 'neutral' policy stance unchanged

India's retail inflation jumped further in May to a four-month high, primarily driven by a surge in energy prices, according to a Reuters poll of economists, suggesting more policy tightening from the central bank is coming. On June 6, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) raised the repo rate for the first time since 2014, by 25 basis points to 6.25 percent, as recent data showed significant increases for both inflation and growth. But the central bank kept its "neutral" policy stance unchanged. Mounting price pressure is a concern for the RBI, with its own projections for inflation raised compared with the ones made in May. The poll of more than 30 economists taken June 4-8 showed annual consumer price inflation likely increased to 4.83 percent last month, the highest since January and above April's 4.58 percent. If that predicted pace is realised, May will be the seventh month in a row with inflation higher than the RBI's medium-term target of 4 percent. "Consumer price inflation is likely to have accelerated in May, due in large part to a rise in fuel inflation," noted Shilan Shah, a senior India economist at Capital Economics. "Core inflation will also have remained elevated, and this is likely to be the case for some time." Poll forecasts for the data, due to be released on Tuesday June 12 at 1200 GMT, ranged from 4.1 percent to 5.7 percent. Oil prices hit a 3-1/2-year high last month, led by increasing worries of supply constraints from U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw from the 2015 Iran nuclear agreement. India imports almost 80 percent of its oil needs and that surge poses a threat not just to inflation but also to the recovering economy, which still is the fastest-growing major economy. "Rising crude prices would not only impact headline inflation but would also put pressure on price levels as the twin deficit goes up," noted Kunal Kundu, an economist at Societe Generale, referring to India's budget and current account gaps. The government's plan to increase rural spending and the minimum support price for farmers ahead of general elections next year will exacerbate price pressures, and is likely to blow out the fiscal deficit target. What has also not helped is the weakening rupee, which has shed 5.7 percent against the dollar this year. The currency's fall is also inflationary, and increases concern about capital outflows from Asia's third-largest economy - another reason that some expect more rate hikes by the RBI. The poll also showed the wholesale prices index likely hit a six-month high of 3.82 percent in May. "The outlook for core inflation suggests that (the June 6) rate hike by the central bank marks the start of a modest tightening cycle rather than being a case of a one-off move," noted Shah. "We are penciling in two further 25 basis point increases in the repo rate over the next six months or so." The poll also predicted industrial output to have risen 5.2 percent in April from a year earlier, up from 4.4 percent in March. That was likely driven by the increase in output of eight core factories - which account for nearly 40 percent of total industrial production - by 4.7 percent in April from a year earlier. The March increase was 4.4 percent.

India May inflation likely hit a four-month high on oil price surge

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