Boris Johnson, who has pledged to deliver Brexit on October 31, is in the final leg of battle on Monday (July 22) with Jeremy Hunt to become the ruling Conservative party's leader and Britain's next prime minister. Johnson and Hunt are locked in a battle to succeed Theresa May, who resigned as prime minister after failing three times to get parliamentary approval for a withdrawal deal for Britain's exit from the European Union. Whoever takes over will have the job not only of trying to steer Britain out of the EU by the next deadline, October 31, but dealing with a raft of challenges from an unpredictable U.S. president to mounting tensions with Iran.

Johnson in final leg of battle with Hunt to become UK PM

New UK PM to be announced today

Boris Johnson is expected to be elected leader of Britain's governing Conservative Party and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/five-urgent-tasks-for-britains-new-prime-minister-237901">country's next prime minister</a> on Tuesday, tasked with following through on his "do or die" pledge to deliver Brexit in just over three months time.

Johnson and his rival, Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt, have spent the last month crisscrossing the country seeking to win over the less than 200,000 Conservative Party members who will choose Britain's new leader.

Voting closed at 1600 GMT on Monday and the result is due to be announced on Tuesday morning. The winner will formally take over as prime minister on Wednesday afternoon, succeeding Theresa May, who stepped down over her failure to get parliament to ratify her Brexit deal.

Johnson, a former London mayor who resigned as foreign minister a year ago over May's Brexit plans, is the clear favourite to replace her, with several polls putting him on around 70 per cent.

He will inherit a political crisis over Britain's exit from the European Union, currently due to take place on Oct. 31. Johnson must persuade the EU to revive talks on a withdrawal deal that it has been adamant cannot be reopened, or else lead Britain into the economic uncertainty of an unmanaged departure.

The only deal on the table has been rejected three times by parliament and many lawmakers - including pro-EU rebels in the Conservative Party - are also vowing to block Johnson trying to take Britain out of the EU without a deal.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-would-do-great-job-as-british-pm-donald-trump-237196">Boris Johnson would do 'great job' as British PM, says Donald Trump</a>

He has said he would ramp up preparations for a no-deal to try to force the EU's negotiators to make changes to the accord.

"We will, of course, be pushing our plan into action, and getting ready to come out on October 31st, come what may...do or die, come what may," Johnson told TalkRadio last month.

Johnson is not likely to start announcing key ministerial appointments until Wednesday, but his victory in the leadership contest is expected to prompt several resignations in the deeply divided Conservative Party.

Two junior ministers have already quit over Johnson's willingness to leave the EU without transition arrangements and finance minister Philip Hammond and justice minister David Gauke have both said they plan to resign before they are sacked.

Brexit without a divorce deal - as anti-EU hardliners would like - would abruptly wrench the world's fifth-largest economy away from the bloc. Critics say this would undermine global growth, buffet financial markets and weaken London's position as the pre-eminent international financial centre.

Boris Johnson is expected to be elected leader of Britain's governing Conservative Party and the country's next prime minister on Tuesday, tasked with following through on his "do or die" pledge to deliver Brexit in just over three months time.

Boris Johnson is expected to be elected leader of Britain's governing Conservative Party and the country's next prime minister on Tuesday, tasked with following through on his "do or die" pledge to deliver Brexit in just over three months time. Johnson and his rival, Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt, have spent the last month crisscrossing the country seeking to win over the less than 200,000 Conservative Party members who will choose Britain's new leader. Voting closed at 1600 GMT on Monday and the result is due to be announced on Tuesday morning. The winner will formally take over as prime minister on Wednesday afternoon, succeeding Theresa May, who stepped down over her failure to get parliament to ratify her Brexit deal. Johnson, a former London mayor who resigned as foreign minister a year ago over May's Brexit plans, is the clear favourite to replace her, with several polls putting him on around 70 per cent. He will inherit a political crisis over Britain's exit from the European Union, currently due to take place on Oct. 31. Johnson must persuade the EU to revive talks on a withdrawal deal that it has been adamant cannot be reopened, or else lead Britain into the economic uncertainty of an unmanaged departure. The only deal on the table has been rejected three times by parliament and many lawmakers - including pro-EU rebels in the Conservative Party - are also vowing to block Johnson trying to take Britain out of the EU without a deal. Also read: Boris Johnson would do 'great job' as British PM, says Donald Trump He has said he would ramp up preparations for a no-deal to try to force the EU's negotiators to make changes to the accord. "We will, of course, be pushing our plan into action, and getting ready to come out on October 31st, come what may...do or die, come what may," Johnson told TalkRadio last month. Johnson is not likely to start announcing key ministerial appointments until Wednesday, but his victory in the leadership contest is expected to prompt several resignations in the deeply divided Conservative Party. Two junior ministers have already quit over Johnson's willingness to leave the EU without transition arrangements and finance minister Philip Hammond and justice minister David Gauke have both said they plan to resign before they are sacked. Brexit without a divorce deal - as anti-EU hardliners would like - would abruptly wrench the world's fifth-largest economy away from the bloc. Critics say this would undermine global growth, buffet financial markets and weaken London's position as the pre-eminent international financial centre.

Boris Johnson set to become next UK PM as Conservatives announce new leader

Outgoing British Prime Minister <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/free-from-brexit-burden-pm-theresa-may-watches-england-vs-south-africa-world-cup-match-222792&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi64oSDu7njAhWa7HMBHeduBTMQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw15MyZDQYk2o7MVFQEeICrE">Theresa May</a> on Tuesday told her top ministers to keep engaging with businesses over <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/pro-brexit-meps-turn-backs-at-european-anthem-in-european-parliament-232506&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjIpcflurnjAhXKsY8KHaHSAfsQFjAAegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw205L7JO00I5SR-Zm2aU1Wq">Brexit</a>, and that firms expect her successor to keep up infrastructure investment and continue developing an industrial strategy.

"The PM noted the resilience of the economy despite the uncertainty of recent years and the importance for the government to keep engaging intensely with business as we approach and after we leave the European Union," May's spokeswoman said.

The comments came as May reported the findings of her meetings with different business groups in recent months, and just over a week before she hands over power to a new prime minister.

"She said there had been a common theme of messaging from businesses which included further investment in infrastructure outside London and the South East, and further support for the industrial strategy," May's spokeswoman said.

"Businesses expect these proposals to be reflected in future policy initiatives."

Later on Tuesday, May is due to meet business leaders from the industrial, infrastructure and manufacturing sectors - one of five consultation groups she set up in November last year to try to improve relations with business over Brexit.

Outgoing British Prime Minister Theresa May on Tuesday told her top ministers to keep engaging with businesses over Brexit, and that firms expect her successor to keep up infrastructure investment and continue developing an industrial strategy.

Outgoing British Prime Minister Theresa May on Tuesday told her top ministers to keep engaging with businesses over Brexit, and that firms expect her successor to keep up infrastructure investment and continue developing an industrial strategy. "The PM noted the resilience of the economy despite the uncertainty of recent years and the importance for the government to keep engaging intensely with business as we approach and after we leave the European Union," May's spokeswoman said. The comments came as May reported the findings of her meetings with different business groups in recent months, and just over a week before she hands over power to a new prime minister. "She said there had been a common theme of messaging from businesses which included further investment in infrastructure outside London and the South East, and further support for the industrial strategy," May's spokeswoman said. "Businesses expect these proposals to be reflected in future policy initiatives." Later on Tuesday, May is due to meet business leaders from the industrial, infrastructure and manufacturing sectors - one of five consultation groups she set up in November last year to try to improve relations with business over Brexit.

Keep talking to businesses as Brexit nears: UK PM May

Opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn on Tuesday said Britain's next prime minister must put their Brexit plan to a second referendum on <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-brexit-minister-urges-european-union-to-reopen-withdrawal-deal-talks-234121&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjWts6X9qfjAhUn7HMBHSu2BDEQFjAIegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2cisH69I1RUe1Hp_6dpaoc">European Union </a>membership, saying his party would campaign to remain.

In an email to members, Corbyn said Labour would campaign to stay in the EU to stop a new Conservative Party leader, who will be chosen later this month, taking Britain out of the bloc without a divorce deal or to stop what he called a "damaging" <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/united-kingdom-economy-shrinks-as-brexit-global-worries-mount-purchasing-managers-index-232725&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi_n5nQ9qfjAhWT6XMBHYFuC5sQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0SBY8A6E_YzS2LYTww-ZvV">Brexit</a>.

The move by Corbyn inches the opposition party closer to heeding demands from many Labour members and some lawmakers to unequivocally embrace a second referendum to break the impasse in parliament over how to leave the EU.

But it might not be enough to satisfy all in his party, falling short of campaigning for a second referendum in any circumstance - a position some wanted to adapt to counter a challenge from the pro-EU, smaller Liberal Democrats.

Brexit has brought down Prime Minister Theresa May, who failed three times to get the divorce deal she agreed with the EU ratified by parliament.

Former foreign minister and London mayor Boris Johnson is battling current foreign minister Jeremy Hunt to replace her as party leader and prime minister. Johnson, who says he will take Britain out of the EU with or without a deal, is favorite.

"Whoever becomes the new prime minister should have the confidence to put their deal, or no deal, back to the people in a public vote," Corbyn said.

"In those circumstances, I want to make it clear that Labour would campaign to Remain against either no deal or a Tory (Conservative) deal that does not protect the economy and jobs."

What he did not say in his mail was what his party would campaign for in a parliamentary election - something the veteran socialist renewed his call for by saying:&nbsp;

"We need a Labour government to end austerity and rebuild our country for the many, not the few".

More than three years since voting 52% to 48% to leave the EU, Britain`s two main parties, its parliament and cities and towns across the country are still deeply divided over Brexit, opening the way for smaller parties to grab some share of the vote.

With Labour struggling in some opinion polls, some in the party want it to adopt a clearer message to tackle the twin challenges from the pro-EU Liberal Democrats and the Brexit Party, led by veteran eurosceptic Nigel Farage.

Corbyn, an instinctive critic of the EU, has so far resisted calls to make his party a wholesale supporter of a second referendum, keen to keep on board Labour Brexit supporters.

Chuka Umunna, a former Labour lawmaker who has joined the Liberal Democrats, said on Twitter: "Yet another fudge, where the Labour leadership keeps open the door to standing on a pro-Brexit platform in a general election or supporting it in government."&nbsp;

Opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn on Tuesday said Britain's next prime minister must put their Brexit plan to a second referendum on European Union membership, saying his party would campaign to remain.

Opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn on Tuesday said Britain's next prime minister must put their Brexit plan to a second referendum on European Union membership, saying his party would campaign to remain. In an email to members, Corbyn said Labour would campaign to stay in the EU to stop a new Conservative Party leader, who will be chosen later this month, taking Britain out of the bloc without a divorce deal or to stop what he called a "damaging" Brexit. The move by Corbyn inches the opposition party closer to heeding demands from many Labour members and some lawmakers to unequivocally embrace a second referendum to break the impasse in parliament over how to leave the EU. But it might not be enough to satisfy all in his party, falling short of campaigning for a second referendum in any circumstance - a position some wanted to adapt to counter a challenge from the pro-EU, smaller Liberal Democrats. Brexit has brought down Prime Minister Theresa May, who failed three times to get the divorce deal she agreed with the EU ratified by parliament. Former foreign minister and London mayor Boris Johnson is battling current foreign minister Jeremy Hunt to replace her as party leader and prime minister. Johnson, who says he will take Britain out of the EU with or without a deal, is favorite. "Whoever becomes the new prime minister should have the confidence to put their deal, or no deal, back to the people in a public vote," Corbyn said. "In those circumstances, I want to make it clear that Labour would campaign to Remain against either no deal or a Tory (Conservative) deal that does not protect the economy and jobs." What he did not say in his mail was what his party would campaign for in a parliamentary election - something the veteran socialist renewed his call for by saying: "We need a Labour government to end austerity and rebuild our country for the many, not the few". More than three years since voting 52% to 48% to leave the EU, Britain`s two main parties, its parliament and cities and towns across the country are still deeply divided over Brexit, opening the way for smaller parties to grab some share of the vote. With Labour struggling in some opinion polls, some in the party want it to adopt a clearer message to tackle the twin challenges from the pro-EU Liberal Democrats and the Brexit Party, led by veteran eurosceptic Nigel Farage. Corbyn, an instinctive critic of the EU, has so far resisted calls to make his party a wholesale supporter of a second referendum, keen to keep on board Labour Brexit supporters. Chuka Umunna, a former Labour lawmaker who has joined the Liberal Democrats, said on Twitter: "Yet another fudge, where the Labour leadership keeps open the door to standing on a pro-Brexit platform in a general election or supporting it in government."

New United Kingdom Prime Minister must put Brexit plan to second referendum: Labour's Jeremy Corbyn

Britain's ruling Conservative Party on Wednesday&nbsp;voted overwhelmingly&nbsp;for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britain-must-leave-european-union-by-october-31-or-pay-the-price-boris-johnson-228539">Boris Johnson in the third ballot</a>&nbsp;eliminating another rival MP Rory Stewart in the race for&nbsp;UK's next prime minister.

Johnson who was&nbsp;the frontrunner in the previous two ballots won 143 votes, followed by British foreign secretary Jeremy Hunt who won 54 votes, Michael Gove winning 51 votes and London Mayor&nbsp;Sadiq Khan getting 38 votes.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Thank you once again to friends and colleagues for your support in the third ballot - especially on my birthday! We’ve come a long way but we have much further to go. 
 
Join the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BackBoris?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BackBoris</a> team 👉 <a href="https://t.co/tGRXu94CmT">https://t.co/tGRXu94CmT</a> <a href="https://t.co/p5ImzGTKDf">pic.twitter.com/p5ImzGTKDf</a>
— Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) <a href="https://twitter.com/BorisJohnson/status/1141392182131212293?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
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International Development Secretary Rory Stewart who was eliminated in the race won 27 votes.

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I am so moved &amp; inspired by the support I have received over the last few weeks - it has given me a new faith in politics, a new belief in our country. I didn’t get enough MPs to believe today - but they will 🙂 I remain deeply committed to you and to this country. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RoryWalksOn?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RoryWalksOn</a>
— Rory Stewart (@RoryStewartUK) <a href="https://twitter.com/RoryStewartUK/status/1141391952887320576?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Ex-minister Dominic Raab was knocked out in the second ballot on Tuesday.

He won 30 votes short of the 33-vote threshold needed to stay in the race. Johnson had got 126 votes to lead the race. Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt came second in the previous round, with 46 votes.

Raab later backed Johnson declaring that he was the only candidate who would deliver Brexit by October 31.

Britain's ruling Conservative Party on Wednesday voted overwhelmingly for Boris Johnson in the third ballot eliminating another rival MP Rory Stewart in the race for UK's next prime minister.

Britain's ruling Conservative Party on Wednesday voted overwhelmingly for Boris Johnson in the third ballot eliminating another rival MP Rory Stewart in the race for UK's next prime minister. Johnson who was the frontrunner in the previous two ballots won 143 votes, followed by British foreign secretary Jeremy Hunt who won 54 votes, Michael Gove winning 51 votes and London Mayor Sadiq Khan getting 38 votes. Thank you once again to friends and colleagues for your support in the third ballot - especially on my birthday! We’ve come a long way but we have much further to go. Join the #BackBoris team 👉 https://t.co/tGRXu94CmT pic.twitter.com/p5ImzGTKDf — Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) June 19, 2019 × International Development Secretary Rory Stewart who was eliminated in the race won 27 votes. I am so moved & inspired by the support I have received over the last few weeks - it has given me a new faith in politics, a new belief in our country. I didn’t get enough MPs to believe today - but they will 🙂 I remain deeply committed to you and to this country. #RoryWalksOn — Rory Stewart (@RoryStewartUK) June 19, 2019 × Ex-minister Dominic Raab was knocked out in the second ballot on Tuesday. He won 30 votes short of the 33-vote threshold needed to stay in the race. Johnson had got 126 votes to lead the race. Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt came second in the previous round, with 46 votes. Raab later backed Johnson declaring that he was the only candidate who would deliver Brexit by October 31.

UK PM race: Boris Johnson consolidates lead in third ballot, Rory Stewart eliminated

Dominic Raab, a former minister knocked out of the race to become British prime minister, backed frontrunner Boris Johnson on Wednesday, telling the Evening Standard newspaper he was the only candidate who would deliver Brexit by October 31.

"The only candidate who will now do this is Boris Johnson and so I`ll be supporting him to become our next Prime Minister," he told the paper.

Raab, a strongly pro-Brexit candidate, had said parliament could be suspended if necessary if lawmakers blocked a no-deal departure from the European Union.

He won only 30 votes from fellow Conservative Party lawmakers in the second round on Tuesday, short of the 33-vote threshold, resulting in his elimination.

Five candidates proceed to Wednesday`s third round led by Johnson, who received 126 votes. Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt came second in the previous round, with 46 votes.

The candidate with the fewest votes on Wednesday will be eliminated, leaving four still in the race.&nbsp;

Dominic Raab, a former minister knocked out of the race to become British prime minister, backed frontrunner Boris Johnson on Wednesday, telling the Evening Standard newspaper he was the only candidate who would deliver Brexit by October 31.

Dominic Raab, a former minister knocked out of the race to become British prime minister, backed frontrunner Boris Johnson on Wednesday, telling the Evening Standard newspaper he was the only candidate who would deliver Brexit by October 31. "The only candidate who will now do this is Boris Johnson and so I`ll be supporting him to become our next Prime Minister," he told the paper. Raab, a strongly pro-Brexit candidate, had said parliament could be suspended if necessary if lawmakers blocked a no-deal departure from the European Union. He won only 30 votes from fellow Conservative Party lawmakers in the second round on Tuesday, short of the 33-vote threshold, resulting in his elimination. Five candidates proceed to Wednesday`s third round led by Johnson, who received 126 votes. Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt came second in the previous round, with 46 votes. The candidate with the fewest votes on Wednesday will be eliminated, leaving four still in the race.

Eliminated UK PM candidate Raab backs Johnson

UK PM Theresa May to officially resign as PM of UK today. But Who'll be the next PM of UK, Who'll lead the Conservative Party. Watch this video to know more.

Race to replace Theresa May, Who'll be next?

It has been 100 years of Jallianwala massacre but UK still didn't apologized. UK PM Theresa May only showed regret on this huge massacre.

100 yrs of Jallianwala Massacre, only regret but no apology from UK

Brexit is going through yet another crunch week. It is unlikely to be the last as the European Union appears likely to grant the United Kingdom another extension at an emergency European Council summit on Wednesday evening.

Brexit: Theresa May to meet EU today, will she get another extension?

UK PM Theresa May releases video statement about Brexit

A group of British lawmakers said on Tuesday they would try to pass a law which would force Prime Minister Theresa May to seek a delay to Britain's departure from the European Union and thus prevent <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-deal-brexit-day-after-day-more-likely-european-unions-chief-negotiator-207400">a chaotic no-deal Brexit on April 12</a>.

On Monday parliament failed to find a majority for any alternative to May's thrice-defeated deal. Leaving the EU without a deal on April 12 is the default legal option if Britain cannot present another viable option to EU leaders holding an emergency Brexit summit on April 10.

"We are now in a really dangerous situation with a serious and growing risk of no-deal in 10 days’ time," said opposition Labour lawmaker, Yvette Cooper, who has proposed the legislation alongside eleven others from several political parties, including members of May's Conservatives.

"The Prime Minister has a responsibility to prevent that happening ... If the government won’t act urgently, then parliament has a responsibility to try to ensure that happens even though we are right up against the deadline."

The group said it would be up to the government to decide how long to propose as a delay.

Conservative lawmaker Oliver Letwin, who led the process of so-called indicative votes on alternative Brexit options, said the draft legislation was "a last-ditch attempt to prevent our country being exposed to the risks inherent in a no deal exit."

"We realise this is difficult. But it is definitely worth trying," he added.

The lawmakers did not give a timetable for the legislation, but are due to take control of parliamentary time on Wednesday, when they could either debate the legislation or set out when they intend to try and pass the bill.

Pro-Brexit Conservative Bill Cash told parliament seizing control in this way was a "a reprehensible procedure".

"It is unconstitutional, it is inconceivable that we should be presented with a bill which can be rammed through in one day," Cash told parliament.

Parliament's speaker John Bercow said it was not unusual for government legislation to be passed by the House of Commons in a single day.

The EU would have to agree to any further delay to the Article 50 negotiating period, and have said Britain would need to give a reason for the delay.

A group of British lawmakers said on Tuesday they would try to pass a law which would force Prime Minister Theresa May to seek a delay to Britain's departure from the European Union and thus prevent a chaotic no-deal Brexit on April 12.

A group of British lawmakers said on Tuesday they would try to pass a law which would force Prime Minister Theresa May to seek a delay to Britain's departure from the European Union and thus prevent a chaotic no-deal Brexit on April 12. On Monday parliament failed to find a majority for any alternative to May's thrice-defeated deal. Leaving the EU without a deal on April 12 is the default legal option if Britain cannot present another viable option to EU leaders holding an emergency Brexit summit on April 10. "We are now in a really dangerous situation with a serious and growing risk of no-deal in 10 days’ time," said opposition Labour lawmaker, Yvette Cooper, who has proposed the legislation alongside eleven others from several political parties, including members of May's Conservatives. "The Prime Minister has a responsibility to prevent that happening ... If the government won’t act urgently, then parliament has a responsibility to try to ensure that happens even though we are right up against the deadline." The group said it would be up to the government to decide how long to propose as a delay. Conservative lawmaker Oliver Letwin, who led the process of so-called indicative votes on alternative Brexit options, said the draft legislation was "a last-ditch attempt to prevent our country being exposed to the risks inherent in a no deal exit." "We realise this is difficult. But it is definitely worth trying," he added. The lawmakers did not give a timetable for the legislation, but are due to take control of parliamentary time on Wednesday, when they could either debate the legislation or set out when they intend to try and pass the bill. Pro-Brexit Conservative Bill Cash told parliament seizing control in this way was a "a reprehensible procedure". "It is unconstitutional, it is inconceivable that we should be presented with a bill which can be rammed through in one day," Cash told parliament. Parliament's speaker John Bercow said it was not unusual for government legislation to be passed by the House of Commons in a single day. The EU would have to agree to any further delay to the Article 50 negotiating period, and have said Britain would need to give a reason for the delay.

British MPs to try to force PM May to ask for another Brexit delay

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-manifesto-some-ideas-positively-dangerous-says-bjp-207472">Lok Sabha polls 2019: Congress releases manifesto, BJP says some of its ideas 'positively dangerous'</a>

The BJP said Tuesday that some of the ideas in the Congress manifesto were "positively dangerous".&nbsp;

The pushback — the Congress manifesto had been released earlier on Tuesday — was launched by Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley who said the ideas were "an agenda for the Balkanisation of India".&nbsp;

Jaitley was by and large referring to what the Congress manifesto has said about Kashmir.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/avoiding-temptation-rbi-likely-to-cut-key-rate-by-just-25-basis-points-207455">Reserve Bank of India likely to cut interest rate by 0.25%: Analysts</a>

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is likely to cut its policy interest rate by 25 basis points on Thursday, despite some analysts believing the country's weakening economic growth and subdued inflation outlook warrant a larger reduction.

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-exactly-does-the-congress-manifesto-promise-207487">What exactly does the Congress manifesto say?&nbsp;</a>

The Congress released its manifesto for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections on Tuesday, and the BJP was quick to say some of the ideas in it were "positively dangerous".&nbsp;

Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley went so far as to say some of the ideas in the manifesto were "an agenda for the Balkanisation of India". But what else does the 55-page long Congress manifesto called "Hum Nibhayenge" or "We Will Deliver" say?&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-chief-antonio-guterres-warns-against-rising-anti-muslim-hatred-207514">UN chief Antonio Guterres warns against rising anti-Muslim hatred</a>

UN chief Antonio Guterres warned Tuesday against growing hatred of Muslims, less than a month after a deadly attack on mosques in New Zealand killed at least 50 people.

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-lawmakers-to-try-to-force-pm-may-to-seek-further-brexit-delay-207516">British MPs to try to force PM May to ask for another Brexit delay</a>

A group of British lawmakers said on Tuesday they would try to pass a law which would force Prime Minister Theresa May to seek a delay to Britain's departure from the European Union and thus prevent a chaotic no-deal Brexit on April 12.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Congress releases manifesto, BJP says some of its ideas 'positively dangerous' The BJP said Tuesday that some of the ideas in the Congress manifesto were "positively dangerous".

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Congress releases manifesto, BJP says some of its ideas 'positively dangerous' The BJP said Tuesday that some of the ideas in the Congress manifesto were "positively dangerous". The pushback — the Congress manifesto had been released earlier on Tuesday — was launched by Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley who said the ideas were "an agenda for the Balkanisation of India". Jaitley was by and large referring to what the Congress manifesto has said about Kashmir. Reserve Bank of India likely to cut interest rate by 0.25%: Analysts The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is likely to cut its policy interest rate by 25 basis points on Thursday, despite some analysts believing the country's weakening economic growth and subdued inflation outlook warrant a larger reduction. What exactly does the Congress manifesto say? The Congress released its manifesto for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections on Tuesday, and the BJP was quick to say some of the ideas in it were "positively dangerous". Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley went so far as to say some of the ideas in the manifesto were "an agenda for the Balkanisation of India". But what else does the 55-page long Congress manifesto called "Hum Nibhayenge" or "We Will Deliver" say? UN chief Antonio Guterres warns against rising anti-Muslim hatred UN chief Antonio Guterres warned Tuesday against growing hatred of Muslims, less than a month after a deadly attack on mosques in New Zealand killed at least 50 people. British MPs to try to force PM May to ask for another Brexit delay A group of British lawmakers said on Tuesday they would try to pass a law which would force Prime Minister Theresa May to seek a delay to Britain's departure from the European Union and thus prevent a chaotic no-deal Brexit on April 12.

News brief: Big stories of the day

British MPs will try again <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-vote-against-all-alternative-brexit-options-206122">to chart a new Brexit path</a> on Monday after rejecting Prime Minister Theresa May's deal for a third time, but the EU warned its patience was wearing thin.

Less than two weeks before Britain risks crashing out of the European Union, MPs will hold a second round of votes on various options to try to break the political deadlock.

But any attempt to force May to accept a closer relationship with the EU risks splitting the government, and there is widespread speculation she might try one last time to get her deal passed this week.

European Union leaders have called an emergency summit on April 10 and have warned that unless Britain sets out what it wants to do, it risks severing ties with its largest trading bloc two days later with no deal at all.

"With our British friends we have had a lot of patience, but even patience is running out," European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker told Italian public TV channel Rai 1 on Sunday.

Softer type of Brexit 
Britain voted by 52 percent to leave the EU in a 2016 referendum, but the process has been mired in divisions over the terms of the divorce and what kind of future ties to seek.

May struck a divorce deal with the EU last November, but it has been repeatedly rejected by MPs, the last time on Friday — even after she promised to resign if her rebellious Conservative colleagues helped push the deal through.

The impasse has forced May to postpone Britain's original exit day from March 29, but she said it would be "unacceptable" for a further delay beyond European Parliament elections held from May 23 to May 26.

Frustrated with her approach, MPs in the House of Commons last week voted to give themselves powers to find an alternative strategy, by holding a series of "indicative votes" on various options.

No single plan won a majority in the first round but MPs hope to whittle down the proposals on Monday evening, with voting starting at 8.00 pm (1900 GMT), and another day of debate is scheduled for this Wednesday.

The two most popular options last week were a new EU-UK customs union or a public vote on any agreed deal. There were a large number of abstentions on another widely discussed option, based on Norway's membership of the single market.

In an interview with the BBC released Monday, Chief Whip Julian Smith — the man responsible for enforcing discipline among May's MPs and ministers — suggested that a closer relationship with the EU was "inevitable".

The 2017 election where May lost her parliamentary majority meant "this would be inevitably a kind of softer type of Brexit", he said.

He also denounced the behaviour of May's own ministers, who he said were trying to undermine her. "This is I think the worst example of ill-discipline in cabinet in British political history," he said.

While some pro-European members of May's cabinet might support a customs union, she herself is opposed and it threatens mass rebellion among the rest of her ministers.

Brexit-supporting minister Andrea Leadsom has reportedly organised a letter signed by 170 Conservative MPs including 10 cabinet ministers, demanding a swift Brexit, with or without a deal.

General election threat 
The votes by MPs are not legally binding but carry political weight, and the government fears they may lead to legislation that would force May's hand.

"I fear we are reaching the limits of this process in this House," she said last week. Speculation is growing that the only way out may be a general election.

But many Conservative MPs oppose the idea, and polling on Sunday put Jeremy Corbyn's Labour party ahead.

Conservative deputy chairman James Cleverly told Sky News: "I don't think an election would solve anything.&nbsp;

"Time is of the essence, we have got Brexit to deliver. We don't want to add any more unnecessary delay."

British MPs will try again to chart a new Brexit path on Monday after rejecting Prime Minister Theresa May's deal for a third time, but the EU warned its patience was wearing thin.

British MPs will try again to chart a new Brexit path on Monday after rejecting Prime Minister Theresa May's deal for a third time, but the EU warned its patience was wearing thin. Less than two weeks before Britain risks crashing out of the European Union, MPs will hold a second round of votes on various options to try to break the political deadlock. But any attempt to force May to accept a closer relationship with the EU risks splitting the government, and there is widespread speculation she might try one last time to get her deal passed this week. European Union leaders have called an emergency summit on April 10 and have warned that unless Britain sets out what it wants to do, it risks severing ties with its largest trading bloc two days later with no deal at all. "With our British friends we have had a lot of patience, but even patience is running out," European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker told Italian public TV channel Rai 1 on Sunday. Softer type of Brexit Britain voted by 52 percent to leave the EU in a 2016 referendum, but the process has been mired in divisions over the terms of the divorce and what kind of future ties to seek. May struck a divorce deal with the EU last November, but it has been repeatedly rejected by MPs, the last time on Friday — even after she promised to resign if her rebellious Conservative colleagues helped push the deal through. The impasse has forced May to postpone Britain's original exit day from March 29, but she said it would be "unacceptable" for a further delay beyond European Parliament elections held from May 23 to May 26. Frustrated with her approach, MPs in the House of Commons last week voted to give themselves powers to find an alternative strategy, by holding a series of "indicative votes" on various options. No single plan won a majority in the first round but MPs hope to whittle down the proposals on Monday evening, with voting starting at 8.00 pm (1900 GMT), and another day of debate is scheduled for this Wednesday. The two most popular options last week were a new EU-UK customs union or a public vote on any agreed deal. There were a large number of abstentions on another widely discussed option, based on Norway's membership of the single market. In an interview with the BBC released Monday, Chief Whip Julian Smith — the man responsible for enforcing discipline among May's MPs and ministers — suggested that a closer relationship with the EU was "inevitable". The 2017 election where May lost her parliamentary majority meant "this would be inevitably a kind of softer type of Brexit", he said. He also denounced the behaviour of May's own ministers, who he said were trying to undermine her. "This is I think the worst example of ill-discipline in cabinet in British political history," he said. While some pro-European members of May's cabinet might support a customs union, she herself is opposed and it threatens mass rebellion among the rest of her ministers. Brexit-supporting minister Andrea Leadsom has reportedly organised a letter signed by 170 Conservative MPs including 10 cabinet ministers, demanding a swift Brexit, with or without a deal. General election threat The votes by MPs are not legally binding but carry political weight, and the government fears they may lead to legislation that would force May's hand. "I fear we are reaching the limits of this process in this House," she said last week. Speculation is growing that the only way out may be a general election. But many Conservative MPs oppose the idea, and polling on Sunday put Jeremy Corbyn's Labour party ahead. Conservative deputy chairman James Cleverly told Sky News: "I don't think an election would solve anything. "Time is of the essence, we have got Brexit to deliver. We don't want to add any more unnecessary delay."

British MPs to vote yet again tonight on various Brexit options

The British pound gyrated Wednesday, initially rallying on Prime Minister Theresa May's dramatic appeal for her Brexit plan but later walking back the gains.

May pledged to step down if parliament backs her EU divorce deal, a vow that immediately boosted the British currency against the dollar and euro.

The dramatic gambit, just ahead of votes on last-minute Brexit alternatives to replace May's twice-rejected deal, pushed the British pound to close to $1.3270.&nbsp;

However, the pound was back down at $1.3189 at 2100 GMT as the prospects for May's plan still looked dicey, with the hard-line Democratic Unionist Party in Northern Ireland continuing to balk at the proposal.

British MPs also voted late Wednesday against eight alternative Brexit options aimed at overcoming the deadlock over May's unpopular divorce deal.

The latest Brexit travails came on a mixed day for global stocks, with Wall Street again wobbling on worries about slowing global growth.

Investors have been weighing how seriously to view a big drop in 10-year US Treasury bond yields in recent session, traditionally a sign of medium- and long-term economic weakness.

The yield on the 10-year US Treasury note on Wednesday fell to its lowest level since December 2017.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average dipped 0.1 percent to finish at 25,625.59, about 200 points above its session lows earlier in the day.

"Buyers showed up during the second part of the session," said Adam Sarhan of 50 Park Investment, who considers the market's jitters over bond yields overblown.

But "if the bond market is right, then the stock market can go down further," Sarhan added.

Among individual companies, Boeing rose 1.0 percent &nbsp;as it unveiled proposed changes to flight software on its 737 MAX aircraft, which have been grounded following two deadly plane crashes in five months.&nbsp;

Boeing's plan came as the head of the Federal Aviation Administration, which must approve the fixes, faced tough questioning from Congress concerning its certification of the planes.

Earlier, European equities finished little changed, while Asian equities mostly rose.

The British pound gyrated Wednesday, initially rallying on Prime Minister Theresa May's dramatic appeal for her Brexit plan but later walking back the gains. May pledged to step down if parliament backs her EU divorce deal, a vow that immediately boosted the British currency against the dollar and euro.

The British pound gyrated Wednesday, initially rallying on Prime Minister Theresa May's dramatic appeal for her Brexit plan but later walking back the gains. May pledged to step down if parliament backs her EU divorce deal, a vow that immediately boosted the British currency against the dollar and euro. The dramatic gambit, just ahead of votes on last-minute Brexit alternatives to replace May's twice-rejected deal, pushed the British pound to close to $1.3270. However, the pound was back down at $1.3189 at 2100 GMT as the prospects for May's plan still looked dicey, with the hard-line Democratic Unionist Party in Northern Ireland continuing to balk at the proposal. British MPs also voted late Wednesday against eight alternative Brexit options aimed at overcoming the deadlock over May's unpopular divorce deal. The latest Brexit travails came on a mixed day for global stocks, with Wall Street again wobbling on worries about slowing global growth. Investors have been weighing how seriously to view a big drop in 10-year US Treasury bond yields in recent session, traditionally a sign of medium- and long-term economic weakness. The yield on the 10-year US Treasury note on Wednesday fell to its lowest level since December 2017. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dipped 0.1 percent to finish at 25,625.59, about 200 points above its session lows earlier in the day. "Buyers showed up during the second part of the session," said Adam Sarhan of 50 Park Investment, who considers the market's jitters over bond yields overblown. But "if the bond market is right, then the stock market can go down further," Sarhan added. Among individual companies, Boeing rose 1.0 percent as it unveiled proposed changes to flight software on its 737 MAX aircraft, which have been grounded following two deadly plane crashes in five months. Boeing's plan came as the head of the Federal Aviation Administration, which must approve the fixes, faced tough questioning from Congress concerning its certification of the planes. Earlier, European equities finished little changed, while Asian equities mostly rose.

Sterling gyrates as British PM puts job on line

Brexit: No majority for any options after MPs' votes

British lawmakers wrested control of the parliamentary agenda from the government for a day in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pms-office-says-reports-of-parliament-seizing-control-from-govt-over-brexit-extremely-concerning-191516">a highly unusual bid</a> to find a way through the Brexit impasse after Prime Minister Theresa May's EU divorce deal was rejected again.

Lawmakers will now vote on a range of Brexit options on Wednesday, giving parliament a chance to indicate whether it can agree on a deal with closer ties to Brussels — and then try to push the government in that direction.

Nearly three years after the 2016 EU membership referendum, and four days before Britain was supposed to leave the bloc, it remains still unclear how, when or even if Brexit will take place, with parliament and the nation still bitterly divided.

The vote underlined the extent to which May has lost authority over her own lawmakers and ministers, though she said the government would not be bound by the results of the so-called indicative votes.

"The government will continue to call for realism — any options considered must be deliverable in negotiations with the EU," said a spokesman for the Department for Exiting the European Union.

Brexit minister Stephen Barclay had said on Sunday that if parliament took control of the Brexit process, a snap election — which the main opposition Labour party would be likely to back — could be the consequence.

May too has made clear that she would not implement a proposal that ran counter to her election manifesto, which promised a clean break with the EU.

THIRD VOTE ON MAY'S DEAL?

But while lawmakers may struggle to turn Wednesday's indicative votes into law, if they do reach some kind of a consensus, it would pile pressure on a prime minister who has accused parliament of having no more viable solution than her deal.

Monday's vote was put forward by Oliver Letwin, a lawmaker in May's Conservative Party. The prime minister had earlier admitted that the deal she had agreed with the EU after two years of talks still did not have enough support to pass.

May has not ruled out bringing back her deal for a third time this week. Thursday would be the most likely day.

The Sun newspaper reported that she had suggested on Sunday that she could resign if that persuaded enough doubters in her party to back her deal.

Some of her lawmakers have already publicly urged her to go.

Parliament backed Letwin's proposal more clearly than had been expected, by 329 votes to 302, helped by three junior ministers who resigned in order to defy the government line.

"The amendment ... upends the balance between our democratic institutions and sets a dangerous, unpredictable precedent for the future," the Brexit department spokesman said.

Sterling rose slightly after the votes but the gains were muted with traders little wiser about when, how and even if Britain will exit the European Union.

"No government could give a blank cheque to commit to an outcome without knowing what it is," May said before the vote. "So I cannot commit the government to delivering the outcome of any votes held by this house."

SNAP ELECTION?

Opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn raised the prospect of putting any proposal supported by lawmakers back to the people.

"This House must also consider whether any deal should be put to the people for a confirmatory vote," he told parliament after the votes.

Last week, the EU agreed to delay Britain's original March 29 departure date because of the deadlock. Now, it will leave the EU on May 22 if May's deal is approved this week. If not, it will have until April 12 to outline its plans.

European Council President Donald Tusk said last week that all Brexit options were still open for Britain until April 12, including a deal, a departure with no deal, a long extension - or even revoking Article 50 and remaining in the EU.

May's deal was defeated in parliament by 149 votes on March 12 and by 230 votes on Jan. 15.

To get her deal passed, May must win over at least 75 MPs who voted against her on March 12 - dozens of rebels in her Conservative Party, some opposition Labour Party MPs and the Northern Irish Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), which props up her minority government but has rejected her deal so far.

Earlier, May's divided cabinet of senior ministers had met to discuss a way forward. Some reports said ministers had "war-gamed" a national election.

"I think we're going to end up with a general election before the end of this year, probably in the summer," Conservative lawmaker Andrew Bridgen, who supports Brexit, told Sky News.

British lawmakers wrested control of the parliamentary agenda from the government for a day in a highly unusual bid to find a way through the Brexit impasse after Prime Minister Theresa May's EU divorce deal was rejected again.

British lawmakers wrested control of the parliamentary agenda from the government for a day in a highly unusual bid to find a way through the Brexit impasse after Prime Minister Theresa May's EU divorce deal was rejected again. Lawmakers will now vote on a range of Brexit options on Wednesday, giving parliament a chance to indicate whether it can agree on a deal with closer ties to Brussels — and then try to push the government in that direction. Nearly three years after the 2016 EU membership referendum, and four days before Britain was supposed to leave the bloc, it remains still unclear how, when or even if Brexit will take place, with parliament and the nation still bitterly divided. The vote underlined the extent to which May has lost authority over her own lawmakers and ministers, though she said the government would not be bound by the results of the so-called indicative votes. "The government will continue to call for realism — any options considered must be deliverable in negotiations with the EU," said a spokesman for the Department for Exiting the European Union. Brexit minister Stephen Barclay had said on Sunday that if parliament took control of the Brexit process, a snap election — which the main opposition Labour party would be likely to back — could be the consequence. May too has made clear that she would not implement a proposal that ran counter to her election manifesto, which promised a clean break with the EU. THIRD VOTE ON MAY'S DEAL? But while lawmakers may struggle to turn Wednesday's indicative votes into law, if they do reach some kind of a consensus, it would pile pressure on a prime minister who has accused parliament of having no more viable solution than her deal. Monday's vote was put forward by Oliver Letwin, a lawmaker in May's Conservative Party. The prime minister had earlier admitted that the deal she had agreed with the EU after two years of talks still did not have enough support to pass. May has not ruled out bringing back her deal for a third time this week. Thursday would be the most likely day. The Sun newspaper reported that she had suggested on Sunday that she could resign if that persuaded enough doubters in her party to back her deal. Some of her lawmakers have already publicly urged her to go. Parliament backed Letwin's proposal more clearly than had been expected, by 329 votes to 302, helped by three junior ministers who resigned in order to defy the government line. "The amendment ... upends the balance between our democratic institutions and sets a dangerous, unpredictable precedent for the future," the Brexit department spokesman said. Sterling rose slightly after the votes but the gains were muted with traders little wiser about when, how and even if Britain will exit the European Union. "No government could give a blank cheque to commit to an outcome without knowing what it is," May said before the vote. "So I cannot commit the government to delivering the outcome of any votes held by this house." SNAP ELECTION? Opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn raised the prospect of putting any proposal supported by lawmakers back to the people. "This House must also consider whether any deal should be put to the people for a confirmatory vote," he told parliament after the votes. Last week, the EU agreed to delay Britain's original March 29 departure date because of the deadlock. Now, it will leave the EU on May 22 if May's deal is approved this week. If not, it will have until April 12 to outline its plans. European Council President Donald Tusk said last week that all Brexit options were still open for Britain until April 12, including a deal, a departure with no deal, a long extension - or even revoking Article 50 and remaining in the EU. May's deal was defeated in parliament by 149 votes on March 12 and by 230 votes on Jan. 15. To get her deal passed, May must win over at least 75 MPs who voted against her on March 12 - dozens of rebels in her Conservative Party, some opposition Labour Party MPs and the Northern Irish Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), which props up her minority government but has rejected her deal so far. Earlier, May's divided cabinet of senior ministers had met to discuss a way forward. Some reports said ministers had "war-gamed" a national election. "I think we're going to end up with a general election before the end of this year, probably in the summer," Conservative lawmaker Andrew Bridgen, who supports Brexit, told Sky News.

British MPs vote to seize control of Brexit for a day

Britain's Parliament votes to delay Brexit deal

British Prime Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-may-warns-mps-brexit-could-be-lost-if-they-vote-down-deal-202926">Theresa May's Brexit deal</a> was headed for defeat in a historic vote in parliament Tuesday, pitching Britain into the unknown just 17 days before it is scheduled to leave the European Union.

Parliament's failure to back the divorce terms could unleash economic chaos — it raises the risk of Britain severing ties with its biggest trade partner on March 29 without a deal after 46 years of EU membership.

May had dashed off to Strasbourg on Monday to wrest concessions from EU leaders in a last-gasp bid to win parliament's blessing in one of its most consequential votes in generations.

The British leader announced that she had secured the "legally binding changes" to the vexing issue of the Irish border that lawmakers had long sought.

But Attorney General Geoffrey Cox, who provides the government with independent legal advice, said the risk in the most contentious points of the 585-page withdrawal deal agreed with the EU "remains unchanged".

May's initial deal with Brussels on unwinding Britain's EU membership suffered an overwhelming defeat at the hands of MPs in January, with anti-Brexit MPs and hardliners forming an unlikely alliance.

The European Research Group of Brexit hardliners in May's Conservative Party and the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), which gives May her working majority in parliament, both came out against the deal on Tuesday.

The main opposition Labour Party also opposes it.

The pound reversed the gains it had made after May's announcement on Monday and tumbled after Cox's advice was released.

'Nothing has really changed' 
The so-called "backstop" solution for the Irish border — designed to avert sectarian violence from returning to Britain's Northern Ireland — is opposed by more ardent Brexit supporters.

They pressed May to secure the right for Britain to pull out of the arrangement or to make it time limited.&nbsp;

But Brussels has called it essential for preserving the bloc's external border after Brexit.

The DUP said in a statement that "sufficient progress has not been achieved at this time" and called for a "sensible deal".

The DUP's consent was seen as vital for swaying members of May's own party to soften their opposition and either back the deal or abstain in the vote.

But there was scant evidence of support for May's compromise in Conservative ranks.

"Nothing has really changed, and it is still a bad deal so unable to vote for this," Conservative MP Andrea Jenkyns tweeted.

'Brexit could be lost' 
May warned lawmakers in a desperate last attempt to sway them that "Brexit could be lost" if they voted against her Tuesday.

"I think everybody needs to recognise, for those who genuinely want to deliver Brexit, that actually if this deal does not go through tonight, then this house risks no Brexit at all," May said.

Leaders across Europe also united behind a message that this was the best and final offer Britain could expect.

"There will be no third chance," European Commission chief Jean-Claude Juncker said after his talks on Monday with May.

And German Chancellor Angela Merkel said Tuesday that the EU was making "far-reaching proposals that take into account the concerns of Great Britain and to find answers for them".

No-deal and delay 
Another defeat would tee up additional votes on the way ahead that May has promised in a bid to preserve unity inside her fractured government.

One on Wednesday would decide whether Britain should simply leave on March 29 without any deal at all.

That option is fraught with economic dangers and is backed only by hardcore proponents of the divorce.

The "no-deal" scenario's likely defeat would lead to a vote on Thursday on requesting a delay to Brexit from the EU.

The other 27 nations would need to back the extension unanimously and decide how long it should be. Their leaders will meet in Brussels for a summit on March 21-22.

But any postponement may have to be short-lived.

Juncker on Monday said a delay beyond European Parliament elections at the end of May would mean Britain would have to take part in the polls.

British Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit deal was headed for defeat in a historic vote in parliament Tuesday, pitching Britain into the unknown just 17 days before it is scheduled to leave the European Union.

British Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit deal was headed for defeat in a historic vote in parliament Tuesday, pitching Britain into the unknown just 17 days before it is scheduled to leave the European Union. Parliament's failure to back the divorce terms could unleash economic chaos — it raises the risk of Britain severing ties with its biggest trade partner on March 29 without a deal after 46 years of EU membership. May had dashed off to Strasbourg on Monday to wrest concessions from EU leaders in a last-gasp bid to win parliament's blessing in one of its most consequential votes in generations. The British leader announced that she had secured the "legally binding changes" to the vexing issue of the Irish border that lawmakers had long sought. But Attorney General Geoffrey Cox, who provides the government with independent legal advice, said the risk in the most contentious points of the 585-page withdrawal deal agreed with the EU "remains unchanged". May's initial deal with Brussels on unwinding Britain's EU membership suffered an overwhelming defeat at the hands of MPs in January, with anti-Brexit MPs and hardliners forming an unlikely alliance. The European Research Group of Brexit hardliners in May's Conservative Party and the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), which gives May her working majority in parliament, both came out against the deal on Tuesday. The main opposition Labour Party also opposes it. The pound reversed the gains it had made after May's announcement on Monday and tumbled after Cox's advice was released. 'Nothing has really changed' The so-called "backstop" solution for the Irish border — designed to avert sectarian violence from returning to Britain's Northern Ireland — is opposed by more ardent Brexit supporters. They pressed May to secure the right for Britain to pull out of the arrangement or to make it time limited. But Brussels has called it essential for preserving the bloc's external border after Brexit. The DUP said in a statement that "sufficient progress has not been achieved at this time" and called for a "sensible deal". The DUP's consent was seen as vital for swaying members of May's own party to soften their opposition and either back the deal or abstain in the vote. But there was scant evidence of support for May's compromise in Conservative ranks. "Nothing has really changed, and it is still a bad deal so unable to vote for this," Conservative MP Andrea Jenkyns tweeted. 'Brexit could be lost' May warned lawmakers in a desperate last attempt to sway them that "Brexit could be lost" if they voted against her Tuesday. "I think everybody needs to recognise, for those who genuinely want to deliver Brexit, that actually if this deal does not go through tonight, then this house risks no Brexit at all," May said. Leaders across Europe also united behind a message that this was the best and final offer Britain could expect. "There will be no third chance," European Commission chief Jean-Claude Juncker said after his talks on Monday with May. And German Chancellor Angela Merkel said Tuesday that the EU was making "far-reaching proposals that take into account the concerns of Great Britain and to find answers for them". No-deal and delay Another defeat would tee up additional votes on the way ahead that May has promised in a bid to preserve unity inside her fractured government. One on Wednesday would decide whether Britain should simply leave on March 29 without any deal at all. That option is fraught with economic dangers and is backed only by hardcore proponents of the divorce. The "no-deal" scenario's likely defeat would lead to a vote on Thursday on requesting a delay to Brexit from the EU. The other 27 nations would need to back the extension unanimously and decide how long it should be. Their leaders will meet in Brussels for a summit on March 21-22. But any postponement may have to be short-lived. Juncker on Monday said a delay beyond European Parliament elections at the end of May would mean Britain would have to take part in the polls.

UK parliament poised to vote down Theresa May's Brexit deal

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning, 6th March, 2019

Britain is "deeply concerned" about rising tensions between India and Pakistan, Prime Minister Theresa May said on Wednesday.

May told parliament that the government was working with international partners including through the United Nations to de-escalate tensions and monitor developments.

Pakistan carried out air strikes and shot down two Indian jets on Wednesday, Pakistani officials said, a day after Indian warplanes struck inside Pakistan for the first time since a war in 1971.

Tensions have been elevated between the nuclear neighbours since a suicide car bombing by Pakistan-based militants in Indian-controlled Kashmir killed at least 40 Indian paramilitary police on February 14, but the risk of conflict rose dramatically on Tuesday (February 26) when India launched an air strike on what it said was a militant training base.

The latest escalation marks a sudden turnaround in relations between the two countries, that both claim the mountainous Himalayan region of Kashmir in full but rule in part.

Britain is "deeply concerned" about rising tensions between India and Pakistan, Prime Minister Theresa May said on Wednesday. May told parliament that the government was working with international partners including through the United Nations to de-escalate tensions and monitor developments.

Britain is "deeply concerned" about rising tensions between India and Pakistan, Prime Minister Theresa May said on Wednesday. May told parliament that the government was working with international partners including through the United Nations to de-escalate tensions and monitor developments. Pakistan carried out air strikes and shot down two Indian jets on Wednesday, Pakistani officials said, a day after Indian warplanes struck inside Pakistan for the first time since a war in 1971. Tensions have been elevated between the nuclear neighbours since a suicide car bombing by Pakistan-based militants in Indian-controlled Kashmir killed at least 40 Indian paramilitary police on February 14, but the risk of conflict rose dramatically on Tuesday (February 26) when India launched an air strike on what it said was a militant training base. The latest escalation marks a sudden turnaround in relations between the two countries, that both claim the mountainous Himalayan region of Kashmir in full but rule in part.

UK deeply concerned about rising tension between India and Pakistan: Theresa May

Watch: WION Gravitas, 21st February, 2019

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning, February 15, 2019

Gravitas: Theresa May presents Brexit plan-B in UK parliament

Theresa May to present Brexit plan B today

British Prime Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/theresa-may-wins-trust-vote-after-brexit-defeat-190850">Theresa May </a>made no change to her demands in talks with European Union leaders despite her Brexit plan being defeated by British lawmakers earlier this week, the Telegraph newspaper reported on Friday.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/this-is-the-best-deal-possible-and-is-worthy-of-their-support-may-on-brexit-deal-190260">May</a>'s demands continued to focus around either a legally binding time-limit for the Irish `backstop`; a right for Britain to unilaterally withdraw, or a commitment to a trade deal finalisation before 2021 to prevent the backstop from coming into force, the report said, citing unnamed senior EU diplomatic sources.

The backstop is an insurance policy designed to prevent the return of border checks on the frontier between EU-member Ireland and Northern Ireland.

May repeated her demands in talks with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, French President Emmanuel Macron and Irish leader Leo Varadkar, the paper reported.

On Friday night, May was also going to meet Arlene Foster, leader of the Northern Irish Democratic Unionist Party, which has 10 seats in parliament and supports May`s government but not her Brexit deal, a Telegraph reporter said on Twitter. The meeting would also be attended by Nigel Dodds, deputy leader of the DUP.

May's deal for Britain to leave the EU was defeated earlier this week by 230 votes. She has appealed to lawmakers to come together to try to break the impasse.

British Prime Minister Theresa May made no change to her demands in talks with European Union leaders despite her Brexit plan being defeated by British lawmakers earlier this week, the Telegraph newspaper reported on Friday.

British Prime Minister Theresa May made no change to her demands in talks with European Union leaders despite her Brexit plan being defeated by British lawmakers earlier this week, the Telegraph newspaper reported on Friday. May's demands continued to focus around either a legally binding time-limit for the Irish `backstop`; a right for Britain to unilaterally withdraw, or a commitment to a trade deal finalisation before 2021 to prevent the backstop from coming into force, the report said, citing unnamed senior EU diplomatic sources. The backstop is an insurance policy designed to prevent the return of border checks on the frontier between EU-member Ireland and Northern Ireland. May repeated her demands in talks with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, French President Emmanuel Macron and Irish leader Leo Varadkar, the paper reported. On Friday night, May was also going to meet Arlene Foster, leader of the Northern Irish Democratic Unionist Party, which has 10 seats in parliament and supports May`s government but not her Brexit deal, a Telegraph reporter said on Twitter. The meeting would also be attended by Nigel Dodds, deputy leader of the DUP. May's deal for Britain to leave the EU was defeated earlier this week by 230 votes. She has appealed to lawmakers to come together to try to break the impasse.

UK PM May makes no change to demands in talks with EU leaders: Report

Dispatch: UK Parliament set to vote on Theresa May's Brexit deal today

Watch: WION Gravitas, 14th January, 2019

Gravitas: Final countdown to Brexit vote begins

Fineprint: Will lawmakers 'frustrate' UK PM Theresa May?

Dispatch: UK PM Theresa May warns ahead of vote on her Brexit deal

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