British <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/what-next-for-brexit-four-main-scenarios-184840">ministers agreed Tuesday to make no-deal Brexit planning "an operational priority"</a> amid continued opposition to Prime Minister Theresa's May draft divorce deal, just 14 weeks before the country leaves the EU.

Following a meeting of her cabinet -- the last before parliament breaks for the Christmas/New Year break -- Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson said around 3,500 troops would be on stand-by to help deal with "any contingencies" from a no-deal outcome.

But Brexit Secretary Steve Barclay said ministers still hoped to secure backing for May's agreement in a House of Commons vote delayed until next month.

He added that any responsible government would intensify preparations for the "default option" of leaving the European Union without a deal on March 29 next year.

"We agreed that preparing for no deal will be an operational priority within government," Barclay said. "But our overall priority remains to secure a deal."

He said departments would step up their advice to businesses on how best to prepare for the scenario, which many fear could be catastrophic for the British economy.

Businesses will be provided with a 100-plus page online preparation pack and emails will be sent to 80,000 of those most likely to be impacted over the next few days, according to Downing Street.

- Divisions - 
May's cabinet is divided between ministers who want the government to embrace a no-deal outcome and those who favour parliament having a final say in a series of votes on potential scenarios for Brexit.

One option is the prime minister's own Brexit deal, but that is hanging by a thread after she was forced to pull a vote on it last week in the face of huge opposition from within her own Conservative Party.

Earlier Tuesday, Downing Street reportedly blocked opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn's request Monday for a non-binding no-confidence motion in May.

That had followed her telling MPs they will not get to vote on her deal this week, but instead in the week beginning January 14.

The delay prompted accusations she was stalling to increase pressure on MPs to back the plan -- and fresh calls for Labour to table a binding no-confidence vote against the whole government.

However, such a move faces likely defeat after Conservative Brexit hardliners and the Democratic Unionist Party, which props up her government, both said they would back May.

- 'Running down the clock' - 
May insisted Monday that she was continuing to seek "assurances" from the EU over elements of her plan, although EU officials said no meetings were planned.

The postponed vote has left members of her own party and Labour opposition politicians infuriated.

"The prime minister has cynically run down the clock, trying to manoeuvre parliament into a choice between two unacceptable outcomes" -- her deal or no deal, Corbyn said.

May is also facing calls for a second referendum to resolve the impasse, with dozens of MPs from all sides now supporting another poll and reports that May's officials are also considering the possibility.

But the prime minister argued that this would betray the 2016 Brexit referendum result and undermine public confidence in politics.

"Let us not break faith with the British people by trying to stage another referendum," she told parliament on Monday.

"Another vote... would do irreparable damage to the integrity of our politics," May said, adding that it would also &nbsp;"likely leave us no further forward".

British ministers agreed Tuesday to make no-deal Brexit planning "an operational priority" amid continued opposition to Prime Minister Theresa's May draft divorce deal, just 14 weeks before the country leaves the EU.

British ministers agreed Tuesday to make no-deal Brexit planning "an operational priority" amid continued opposition to Prime Minister Theresa's May draft divorce deal, just 14 weeks before the country leaves the EU. Following a meeting of her cabinet -- the last before parliament breaks for the Christmas/New Year break -- Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson said around 3,500 troops would be on stand-by to help deal with "any contingencies" from a no-deal outcome. But Brexit Secretary Steve Barclay said ministers still hoped to secure backing for May's agreement in a House of Commons vote delayed until next month. He added that any responsible government would intensify preparations for the "default option" of leaving the European Union without a deal on March 29 next year. "We agreed that preparing for no deal will be an operational priority within government," Barclay said. "But our overall priority remains to secure a deal." He said departments would step up their advice to businesses on how best to prepare for the scenario, which many fear could be catastrophic for the British economy. Businesses will be provided with a 100-plus page online preparation pack and emails will be sent to 80,000 of those most likely to be impacted over the next few days, according to Downing Street. - Divisions - May's cabinet is divided between ministers who want the government to embrace a no-deal outcome and those who favour parliament having a final say in a series of votes on potential scenarios for Brexit. One option is the prime minister's own Brexit deal, but that is hanging by a thread after she was forced to pull a vote on it last week in the face of huge opposition from within her own Conservative Party. Earlier Tuesday, Downing Street reportedly blocked opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn's request Monday for a non-binding no-confidence motion in May. That had followed her telling MPs they will not get to vote on her deal this week, but instead in the week beginning January 14. The delay prompted accusations she was stalling to increase pressure on MPs to back the plan -- and fresh calls for Labour to table a binding no-confidence vote against the whole government. However, such a move faces likely defeat after Conservative Brexit hardliners and the Democratic Unionist Party, which props up her government, both said they would back May. - 'Running down the clock' - May insisted Monday that she was continuing to seek "assurances" from the EU over elements of her plan, although EU officials said no meetings were planned. The postponed vote has left members of her own party and Labour opposition politicians infuriated. "The prime minister has cynically run down the clock, trying to manoeuvre parliament into a choice between two unacceptable outcomes" -- her deal or no deal, Corbyn said. May is also facing calls for a second referendum to resolve the impasse, with dozens of MPs from all sides now supporting another poll and reports that May's officials are also considering the possibility. But the prime minister argued that this would betray the 2016 Brexit referendum result and undermine public confidence in politics. "Let us not break faith with the British people by trying to stage another referendum," she told parliament on Monday. "Another vote... would do irreparable damage to the integrity of our politics," May said, adding that it would also "likely leave us no further forward".

UK puts 3,500 soldiers on standby for no-deal Brexit

A group of British MPs have launched a year-long campaign to lobby for Sikhism to be added as a separate ethnicity tick-box in the next UK census in 2021 after the country's statistical authority concluded it was not required.

The All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for British Sikhs accused the Office of National Statistics (ONS) of ignoring "overwhelming" Sikh community support for such an additional category in order to ensure fair treatment of British Sikhs and address racial discrimination.&nbsp;

"The ONS with its latest proposals in the White Paper has now opened itself up to legal action and a claim of institutionalising discrimination against Sikhs," said Labour MP Preet Kaur Gill, Chair of the APPG for British Sikhs.

"MPs, with the support of gurdwaras, Sikh organisations and the community, are starting a year-long nationwide campaign to put this right and a Sikh ethnic tick box to be added when the Census Order 2019 is presented in the House of Commons," she said.

In a recently released White Paper, titled 'Help Shape Our Future: The 2021 Census of Population and Housing in England and Wales', the ONS said the estimates of the Sikh population can be met through data from the specific response option in the Sikh religion question.

"The ONS does not propose adding an additional specific response option to the 2021 Census ethnic group question because of the evidence that this would not be acceptable to a proportion of the Sikh population," the White Paper states.

"There are differing views within the Sikh population as to whether a specific response option should be added to the 2021 Census, and views on each side are passionately held. All respondents who stated they were ethnically Sikh (in question versions with or without a specific Sikh response option) also stated their religious affiliation was Sikh, it notes.

Sikhs are already recognised as a separate religion in the optional religious question introduced in the 2001 Census. The UK's Race Relations (Amendment) Act 2000 placed an obligatory and specific duty on the country's public authorities to monitor and positively promote race equality in the provision of public services.&nbsp;

According to some British Sikh groups such as Sikh Federation UK, public bodies tend to only reference the ethnic groups used in the census and demand a separate Sikh ethnic tick-box to ensure Sikhs have fair access to all public services.

"The recommendations fully recognise the need for good data on the Sikh community, both in terms of the need for high-quality data from the census and also wider across all public services. Everyone who wishes to identify as Sikh will be able to do so," said John Pullinger, UK's National Statistician, who has also written to the APPG for British Sikhs with assurances.&nbsp;

The Network of Sikh Organisation (NSO), which had campaigned against such a separate ethnicity tick-box, welcomed the conclusions of the White Paper as "common sense".

"The ONS has conducted significant research and consultation on this matter across the British Sikh community over a long period of time. They revealed focus groups conducted showed, 'younger second-generation participants wanted to express their Sikh background through the religion question as this is how they expected Sikh identity to be recorded'," the NSO said in a statement.

"In any case, from a doctrinal perspective, Guru Nanak was the founder of a great world religion, not an ethnic' group. Sikh teachings reject division of society on grounds of caste, creed, colour and, by the extension of this debate, ethnicity," it adds.

The ONS has also stressed that its "Digital First" census in 2021 will have a new "search-as-you-type" facility on the online form, which will allow anyone to identify as being of any particular ethnic identity, including Sikh.

"The ONS will also utilise the Digital Economy Act 2017 to help ensure data on the Sikh population is available across public services not just census collected data," it said.

The date for the next UK census has been confirmed as March 21, 2021, subject to parliamentary approval.&nbsp;

A group of British MPs have launched a year-long campaign to lobby for Sikhism to be added as a separate ethnicity tick-box in the next UK census in 2021 after the country's statistical authority concluded it was not required.

A group of British MPs have launched a year-long campaign to lobby for Sikhism to be added as a separate ethnicity tick-box in the next UK census in 2021 after the country's statistical authority concluded it was not required. The All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for British Sikhs accused the Office of National Statistics (ONS) of ignoring "overwhelming" Sikh community support for such an additional category in order to ensure fair treatment of British Sikhs and address racial discrimination. "The ONS with its latest proposals in the White Paper has now opened itself up to legal action and a claim of institutionalising discrimination against Sikhs," said Labour MP Preet Kaur Gill, Chair of the APPG for British Sikhs. "MPs, with the support of gurdwaras, Sikh organisations and the community, are starting a year-long nationwide campaign to put this right and a Sikh ethnic tick box to be added when the Census Order 2019 is presented in the House of Commons," she said. In a recently released White Paper, titled 'Help Shape Our Future: The 2021 Census of Population and Housing in England and Wales', the ONS said the estimates of the Sikh population can be met through data from the specific response option in the Sikh religion question. "The ONS does not propose adding an additional specific response option to the 2021 Census ethnic group question because of the evidence that this would not be acceptable to a proportion of the Sikh population," the White Paper states. "There are differing views within the Sikh population as to whether a specific response option should be added to the 2021 Census, and views on each side are passionately held. All respondents who stated they were ethnically Sikh (in question versions with or without a specific Sikh response option) also stated their religious affiliation was Sikh, it notes. Sikhs are already recognised as a separate religion in the optional religious question introduced in the 2001 Census. The UK's Race Relations (Amendment) Act 2000 placed an obligatory and specific duty on the country's public authorities to monitor and positively promote race equality in the provision of public services. According to some British Sikh groups such as Sikh Federation UK, public bodies tend to only reference the ethnic groups used in the census and demand a separate Sikh ethnic tick-box to ensure Sikhs have fair access to all public services. "The recommendations fully recognise the need for good data on the Sikh community, both in terms of the need for high-quality data from the census and also wider across all public services. Everyone who wishes to identify as Sikh will be able to do so," said John Pullinger, UK's National Statistician, who has also written to the APPG for British Sikhs with assurances. The Network of Sikh Organisation (NSO), which had campaigned against such a separate ethnicity tick-box, welcomed the conclusions of the White Paper as "common sense". "The ONS has conducted significant research and consultation on this matter across the British Sikh community over a long period of time. They revealed focus groups conducted showed, 'younger second-generation participants wanted to express their Sikh background through the religion question as this is how they expected Sikh identity to be recorded'," the NSO said in a statement. "In any case, from a doctrinal perspective, Guru Nanak was the founder of a great world religion, not an ethnic' group. Sikh teachings reject division of society on grounds of caste, creed, colour and, by the extension of this debate, ethnicity," it adds. The ONS has also stressed that its "Digital First" census in 2021 will have a new "search-as-you-type" facility on the online form, which will allow anyone to identify as being of any particular ethnic identity, including Sikh. "The ONS will also utilise the Digital Economy Act 2017 to help ensure data on the Sikh population is available across public services not just census collected data," it said. The date for the next UK census has been confirmed as March 21, 2021, subject to parliamentary approval.

British MPs campaign for separate Sikh ethnicity in UK census

Perhaps one of the most important events of 2018, Brexit will completely change&nbsp;the fabric of the UK's economy.

And while its impact is still to be understood full, HBO has created a drama on it. Titled 'Brexit', the movie's trailer was recently released.&nbsp;

The film has Benedict Cumberbatch playing the man — Dominic Cummings — who orchestrated the "Vote Leave"&nbsp;campaign. Cummings was the Vote Leave campaign director from its creation in October 2015.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/E5S1EMmCWAE" width="560"></iframe>

The trailer has Cumberbatch playing the 'man behind Brexit', who goes around asking questions to the people of UK and creating an awareness about why the country had to leave the European Union. &nbsp;“Is it immigration? You can be honest. Is it race? Which countries don’t you like?” Cumberbatch can be seen asking.&nbsp;

The film’s trailer though received criticism on social media platforms as UK remains undivided on whether the decision to leave EU was taken fairly or not.&nbsp;

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How dare you make money from a criminal activity that its investigations are still ongoing!!!!
— Minoo Osborne (@MinooOsborne) <a href="https://twitter.com/MinooOsborne/status/1073881895736406017?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Perhaps one of the most important events of 2018, Brexit will completely change the fabric of the UK's economy. And while its impact is still to be understood full, HBO has created a drama on it.

Perhaps one of the most important events of 2018, Brexit will completely change the fabric of the UK's economy. And while its impact is still to be understood full, HBO has created a drama on it. Titled 'Brexit', the movie's trailer was recently released. The film has Benedict Cumberbatch playing the man — Dominic Cummings — who orchestrated the "Vote Leave" campaign. Cummings was the Vote Leave campaign director from its creation in October 2015. The trailer has Cumberbatch playing the 'man behind Brexit', who goes around asking questions to the people of UK and creating an awareness about why the country had to leave the European Union. “Is it immigration? You can be honest. Is it race? Which countries don’t you like?” Cumberbatch can be seen asking. The film’s trailer though received criticism on social media platforms as UK remains undivided on whether the decision to leave EU was taken fairly or not. How dare you make money from a criminal activity that its investigations are still ongoing!!!! — Minoo Osborne (@MinooOsborne) December 15, 2018 ×

'Brexit' trailer: Benedict Cumberbatch plays man behind the 'Vote Leave' campaign

By Robin Pettitt

In winning a Conservative Party no-confidence vote by 200 to 117, Theresa May has defeated the most serious attempt so far at ousting her as leader of the party. The effort was never likely to succeed for the simple reason that there was no openly declared challenger for the top job. Not a single Conservative MP has been willing to publicly state that they would be able to do better than the prime minister and demand the job in her stead.

The lack of a challenge after she lost the government majority in the 2017 snap election showed the reluctance of likely successors to put themselves forward. This should be seen in the context that the Conservative Party traditionally does not take kindly to its leader doing badly electorally. May’s win in this vote illustrates with blinding clarity that no one in the Conservative Party thinks they could do better in negotiating with the EU27.

In the lead-up to the vote, there was plenty of speculation on what would count as a “good” result for May. However, keeping in mind all the humiliations and defeats the prime minister has already experienced, a victory in this no-confidence vote of any scale would be enough. May is now safe from a formal challenge to her position for a full year. This will massively increase her hold on the position as party leader.

Still stuck

However, even though the hardcore Brexiteers in the European Research Group (ERG) have failed in their attempt at ousting May, her victory will do little to undo the parliamentary stalemate. The result of the no-confidence vote shows that within the Conservative Party the ERG and the hard Brexiteers do not command anything like a majority. However, considering the parliamentary arithmetic, they have enough power to scupper almost any deal presented for approval to the House of Commons. The ERG and the DUP are pretty much in lockstep in their view of what is an unacceptable deal so while the prime minister may still be in office, it’s also clear that her effective power is very close to zero.

The question then is what is next for both the prime minister and her hard Brexit opponents? May now has the unappealing task of deciding what to do with her dead-in-the-water withdrawal agreement. The EU27 have made it very clear that they do not want to reopen negotiations. Even if they did there is every chance that a new agreement could be worse, especially considering France’s wish for concessions on access to UK fishing waters, and Spain’s designs on Gibraltar.

Election time?

Arguably, May’s most realistic option could be a fresh general election in which the main/only topic on the agenda would be her withdrawal agreement. That is entirely doable in parliamentary terms. It would put her internal Conservative opponents in the awkward position of effectively having to campaign against their own party, and should she not lose would give her the ability to say that she has a democratic mandate to push through the agreement. However, all ways forward have to face the fundamental fact that the March 29, 2019 deadline is now uncomfortably close.

That ticking clock is arguably the hard Brexit supporters’ biggest asset. Knowing that it is extremely unlikely that any withdrawal agreement will come before parliament that could command majority support, they could simply continue to block approval and run down the clock. There are rumours that they are considering supporting a no-confidence motion against the government, working with Labour and the Liberal Democrats to force an election. That would be a nuclear option and would undoubtedly cause profound damage to the Conservative Party. And Brexiteers were moving to downplay that possibility in the aftermath of the leadership vote.

In short, while May can feel justifiably smug about having successfully faced down her opponents in the Conservative Party, the result in no way helps her find a way out of the parliamentary stalemate. The no-confidence vote hurdle has been successfully cleared, but May is no closer to solving the problem that sparked that vote in the first place.

(Robin Pettitt is Senior Lecturer in Comparative Politics, Kingston University)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/theresa-may-survives-confidence-vote-but-her-brexit-deal-is-still-in-deep-trouble-108728">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

By Robin Pettitt In winning a Conservative Party no-confidence vote by 200 to 117, Theresa May has defeated the most serious attempt so far at ousting her as leader of the party.

By Robin Pettitt In winning a Conservative Party no-confidence vote by 200 to 117, Theresa May has defeated the most serious attempt so far at ousting her as leader of the party. The effort was never likely to succeed for the simple reason that there was no openly declared challenger for the top job. Not a single Conservative MP has been willing to publicly state that they would be able to do better than the prime minister and demand the job in her stead. The lack of a challenge after she lost the government majority in the 2017 snap election showed the reluctance of likely successors to put themselves forward. This should be seen in the context that the Conservative Party traditionally does not take kindly to its leader doing badly electorally. May’s win in this vote illustrates with blinding clarity that no one in the Conservative Party thinks they could do better in negotiating with the EU27. In the lead-up to the vote, there was plenty of speculation on what would count as a “good” result for May. However, keeping in mind all the humiliations and defeats the prime minister has already experienced, a victory in this no-confidence vote of any scale would be enough. May is now safe from a formal challenge to her position for a full year. This will massively increase her hold on the position as party leader. Still stuck However, even though the hardcore Brexiteers in the European Research Group (ERG) have failed in their attempt at ousting May, her victory will do little to undo the parliamentary stalemate. The result of the no-confidence vote shows that within the Conservative Party the ERG and the hard Brexiteers do not command anything like a majority. However, considering the parliamentary arithmetic, they have enough power to scupper almost any deal presented for approval to the House of Commons. The ERG and the DUP are pretty much in lockstep in their view of what is an unacceptable deal so while the prime minister may still be in office, it’s also clear that her effective power is very close to zero. The question then is what is next for both the prime minister and her hard Brexit opponents? May now has the unappealing task of deciding what to do with her dead-in-the-water withdrawal agreement. The EU27 have made it very clear that they do not want to reopen negotiations. Even if they did there is every chance that a new agreement could be worse, especially considering France’s wish for concessions on access to UK fishing waters, and Spain’s designs on Gibraltar. Election time? Arguably, May’s most realistic option could be a fresh general election in which the main/only topic on the agenda would be her withdrawal agreement. That is entirely doable in parliamentary terms. It would put her internal Conservative opponents in the awkward position of effectively having to campaign against their own party, and should she not lose would give her the ability to say that she has a democratic mandate to push through the agreement. However, all ways forward have to face the fundamental fact that the March 29, 2019 deadline is now uncomfortably close. That ticking clock is arguably the hard Brexit supporters’ biggest asset. Knowing that it is extremely unlikely that any withdrawal agreement will come before parliament that could command majority support, they could simply continue to block approval and run down the clock. There are rumours that they are considering supporting a no-confidence motion against the government, working with Labour and the Liberal Democrats to force an election. That would be a nuclear option and would undoubtedly cause profound damage to the Conservative Party. And Brexiteers were moving to downplay that possibility in the aftermath of the leadership vote. In short, while May can feel justifiably smug about having successfully faced down her opponents in the Conservative Party, the result in no way helps her find a way out of the parliamentary stalemate. The no-confidence vote hurdle has been successfully cleared, but May is no closer to solving the problem that sparked that vote in the first place. (Robin Pettitt is Senior Lecturer in Comparative Politics, Kingston University) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Theresa May survives confidence vote – but her Brexit deal is still in deep trouble

Britain plans by 2040 to develop the world's first net-zero carbon industrial centre by teaming up emitters with industries that can reuse their polluting gases or by moving to lower carbon fuels such as hydrogen, it said on Thursday.

The government said it will commit up to 170 million pounds ($215 million) to the project, which could include capturing emissions from factories and reusing them in industries such as brewing to put the fizz in drinks.

Britain has been making progress in cutting emissions from the electricity sector by increasing renewable power generation as it seeks to phase out coal-fired generation by 2025.

"But to sustain this track record we need to tackle emissions from energy-intensive sectors and bring clean growth to our great industrial centres," energy minister Claire Perry said in a statement.

Industrial emissions, such as from the production of steel, ceramics and chemicals account for 25 per cent of the country`s greenhouse gases.

The hub could be developed in existing industrial regions such as Grangemouth in Scotland, in South Wales or in England at Merseyside, Teeside, Humberside or Southampton.

The announcement comes as delegates from more than 190 countries meet in Poland to flesh out how to reach commitments made under the 2015 Paris Agreement to keep the rise in global temperatures below 2 degrees Celsius this century.&nbsp;

Britain's greenhouse gas emissions have fallen 43 per cent since 1990, meaning it is more than halfway towards meeting a legally binding target to cut them by 2050 to 80 per cent below 1990 levels.

Britain plans by 2040 to develop the world's first net-zero carbon industrial centre by teaming up emitters with industries that can reuse their polluting gases or by moving to lower carbon fuels such as hydrogen, it said on Thursday.

Britain plans by 2040 to develop the world's first net-zero carbon industrial centre by teaming up emitters with industries that can reuse their polluting gases or by moving to lower carbon fuels such as hydrogen, it said on Thursday. The government said it will commit up to 170 million pounds ($215 million) to the project, which could include capturing emissions from factories and reusing them in industries such as brewing to put the fizz in drinks. Britain has been making progress in cutting emissions from the electricity sector by increasing renewable power generation as it seeks to phase out coal-fired generation by 2025. "But to sustain this track record we need to tackle emissions from energy-intensive sectors and bring clean growth to our great industrial centres," energy minister Claire Perry said in a statement. Industrial emissions, such as from the production of steel, ceramics and chemicals account for 25 per cent of the country`s greenhouse gases. The hub could be developed in existing industrial regions such as Grangemouth in Scotland, in South Wales or in England at Merseyside, Teeside, Humberside or Southampton. The announcement comes as delegates from more than 190 countries meet in Poland to flesh out how to reach commitments made under the 2015 Paris Agreement to keep the rise in global temperatures below 2 degrees Celsius this century. Britain's greenhouse gas emissions have fallen 43 per cent since 1990, meaning it is more than halfway towards meeting a legally binding target to cut them by 2050 to 80 per cent below 1990 levels.

Emissions in, bubbles out: UK plans world's first carbon-neutral industry hub

Watch: WION Gravitas, 12th December, 2018

Watch: WION Fineprint, 12th December, 2018

Global stock markets rallied Wednesday on upbeat China-US trade news, while the pound hit yet another 20-month low as <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-may-to-challenge-leadership-contest-says-ousting-would-delay-brexit-183454">British Prime Minister Theresa May</a> faces a no-confidence vote.

Oil prices jumped one dollar as volatility continued to grip world crude markets.

A flurry of positive developments in the tariffs stand-off between the world's top economies provided early Christmas cheer on trading floors, fuelling hopes an all-out trade war can be avoided.

In afternoon deals, Frankfurt fizzed 0.9 per cent higher, London won 1.1 per cent and Paris added 1.6 per cent.&nbsp;

The positivity spilled over from Asia, where Tokyo ended 2.2 per cent higher and Shanghai rose 0.3 per cent, while Hong Kong jumped 1.6 per cent.

"The equity markets are taking encouragement from recent reports of a potential truce in the US-China trade dispute," noted VTB Capital analyst Neil MacKinnon.

Canada on Tuesday released on bail <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/huawei-cfo-meng-wanzhou-freed-on-bail-leaves-courthouse-183504">Meng Wanzhou</a>, chief financial officer (CFO) at Chinese telecoms giant Huawei, whose arrest last week sparked fury in Beijing and worries about a truce agreed at the G20 by Donald Trump and Xi Jinping this month.

Providing some extra support to the news of Meng's release was an interview in which Trump said he could intervene in the case if it helps seal a trade pact with China, adding: "Whatever's good for this country, I would do."

China added to market-friendly noise by saying it had agreed to cut tariffs on US autos to 15 per cent from 40 per cent -- wiping out a levy imposed earlier this year in response to US measures.&nbsp;

Investors welcomed the headlines but sounded a note of caution.

"Newsflow regarding developments in the US-China trade dispute has been notoriously erratic and positive news can quickly give way to negative news," added MacKinnon.

May no-confidence vote

The British pound meanwhile ducked as low as $1.2478 -- a level last seen in April 2017 -- in a torrid week for the Brexit-hit currency.

The latest low came as the head of a Conservative Party committee in charge of organising leadership challenges announced that May would Wednesday face a no-confidence vote over her Brexit negotiations.

The weak pound boosts London-listed multinationals whose earnings abroad are converted back into sterling, handing a fillip to the FTSE 100 shares index.

The news came after May had delayed Tuesday's parliamentary vote on her EU divorce agreement to avert a crushing defeat.

In midday deals, sterling clawed background to stand at $1.2534, up from $1.2487 late on Tuesday.

"So far sterling has played the waiting game in regards to the impending vote of no-confidence in Theresa May," noted Spreadex analyst Connor Campbell.

"If the prime minister comes out the other side with her job intact, then it takes one of the many uncertainties that have swirled around UK politics for the last few months off the table.

"If she loses, on the other hand, then well, the pound's likely going to have a very unpleasant run-in to Christmas."

Global stock markets rallied Wednesday on upbeat China-US trade news, while the pound hit yet another 20-month low as British Prime Minister Theresa May faces a no-confidence vote.

Global stock markets rallied Wednesday on upbeat China-US trade news, while the pound hit yet another 20-month low as British Prime Minister Theresa May faces a no-confidence vote. Oil prices jumped one dollar as volatility continued to grip world crude markets. A flurry of positive developments in the tariffs stand-off between the world's top economies provided early Christmas cheer on trading floors, fuelling hopes an all-out trade war can be avoided. In afternoon deals, Frankfurt fizzed 0.9 per cent higher, London won 1.1 per cent and Paris added 1.6 per cent. The positivity spilled over from Asia, where Tokyo ended 2.2 per cent higher and Shanghai rose 0.3 per cent, while Hong Kong jumped 1.6 per cent. "The equity markets are taking encouragement from recent reports of a potential truce in the US-China trade dispute," noted VTB Capital analyst Neil MacKinnon. Canada on Tuesday released on bail Meng Wanzhou, chief financial officer (CFO) at Chinese telecoms giant Huawei, whose arrest last week sparked fury in Beijing and worries about a truce agreed at the G20 by Donald Trump and Xi Jinping this month. Providing some extra support to the news of Meng's release was an interview in which Trump said he could intervene in the case if it helps seal a trade pact with China, adding: "Whatever's good for this country, I would do." China added to market-friendly noise by saying it had agreed to cut tariffs on US autos to 15 per cent from 40 per cent -- wiping out a levy imposed earlier this year in response to US measures. Investors welcomed the headlines but sounded a note of caution. "Newsflow regarding developments in the US-China trade dispute has been notoriously erratic and positive news can quickly give way to negative news," added MacKinnon. May no-confidence vote The British pound meanwhile ducked as low as $1.2478 -- a level last seen in April 2017 -- in a torrid week for the Brexit-hit currency. The latest low came as the head of a Conservative Party committee in charge of organising leadership challenges announced that May would Wednesday face a no-confidence vote over her Brexit negotiations. The weak pound boosts London-listed multinationals whose earnings abroad are converted back into sterling, handing a fillip to the FTSE 100 shares index. The news came after May had delayed Tuesday's parliamentary vote on her EU divorce agreement to avert a crushing defeat. In midday deals, sterling clawed background to stand at $1.2534, up from $1.2487 late on Tuesday. "So far sterling has played the waiting game in regards to the impending vote of no-confidence in Theresa May," noted Spreadex analyst Connor Campbell. "If the prime minister comes out the other side with her job intact, then it takes one of the many uncertainties that have swirled around UK politics for the last few months off the table. "If she loses, on the other hand, then well, the pound's likely going to have a very unpleasant run-in to Christmas."

World stocks rally on China-US trade; pound slides on UK turmoil

Scotland Yard on Tuesday used a Taser gun to detain and arrest a man who broke into the UK Parliament building grounds, at almost the same area where a terror attack occurred last year.

The man, who is held on trespassing charges while further investigations continue, had reportedly jumped over railings before being Tasered by the Metropolitan Police officers on duty at the Parliament building within the Palace of Westminster in central London.

"A man was detained and arrested by Carriage Gates inside the Palace of Westminster on suspicion of trespassing at a protected site," a Met Police statement said.

"A Taser was deployed. Enquiries into the circumstances continue," the statement said.

The man, described as in his 20s, was handcuffed and bundled into a police van, and driven away. The incident is not thought to be terrorism-related as it is not being investigated by the Met Police's Counter Terrorism Command.

Extra police officers, some of them armed, were brought in to bolster security at the gates, but were stood down around 45 minutes after the intrusion.&nbsp;

"Always in awe at the professionalism, courage and dedication of the police who guard the Palace of Westminster. Thank you all,? UK international development secretary Penny Mordaunt tweeted soon after.

The trespass incident occurred in the same area inside the Parliament's courtyard as a terror attack last year by Islamic State inspired Khalid Masood, who ran in through the gates with a knife after ramming his car into the side of the building.

Met Police officer Keith Palmer, who was guarding the gates, was stabbed and killed, after the attacker had knocked down pedestrians indiscriminately on Westminster Bridge, killing four people. Masood was shot dead by armed officers just inside the Parliament gates in March 2017.

Since the attack, security at the Parliament gates has been beefed up, with a permanent armed presence at the entrance.&nbsp;

Scotland Yard on Tuesday used a Taser gun to detain and arrest a man who broke into the UK Parliament building grounds, at almost the same area where a terror attack occurred last year.

Scotland Yard on Tuesday used a Taser gun to detain and arrest a man who broke into the UK Parliament building grounds, at almost the same area where a terror attack occurred last year. The man, who is held on trespassing charges while further investigations continue, had reportedly jumped over railings before being Tasered by the Metropolitan Police officers on duty at the Parliament building within the Palace of Westminster in central London. "A man was detained and arrested by Carriage Gates inside the Palace of Westminster on suspicion of trespassing at a protected site," a Met Police statement said. "A Taser was deployed. Enquiries into the circumstances continue," the statement said. The man, described as in his 20s, was handcuffed and bundled into a police van, and driven away. The incident is not thought to be terrorism-related as it is not being investigated by the Met Police's Counter Terrorism Command. Extra police officers, some of them armed, were brought in to bolster security at the gates, but were stood down around 45 minutes after the intrusion. "Always in awe at the professionalism, courage and dedication of the police who guard the Palace of Westminster. Thank you all,? UK international development secretary Penny Mordaunt tweeted soon after. The trespass incident occurred in the same area inside the Parliament's courtyard as a terror attack last year by Islamic State inspired Khalid Masood, who ran in through the gates with a knife after ramming his car into the side of the building. Met Police officer Keith Palmer, who was guarding the gates, was stabbed and killed, after the attacker had knocked down pedestrians indiscriminately on Westminster Bridge, killing four people. Masood was shot dead by armed officers just inside the Parliament gates in March 2017. Since the attack, security at the Parliament gates has been beefed up, with a permanent armed presence at the entrance.

Scotland Yard arrest man within UK Parliament grounds

The European Union is willing to give Britain further clarifications on its Brexit deal but will not renegotiate the treaty or its <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-breakthrough-the-irish-issue-explained-177345">protocol on the Irish border</a>, EU chief executive Jean-Claude Juncker said on Tuesday (December 11).

Addressing the European Parliament in Strasbourg, the European Commission president said he was "surprised" at Prime Minister Theresa May's inability to get the package agreed with the EU last month through the British parliament.

Noting that he would meet May in Brussels on Tuesday evening ahead of an EU summit on Thursday and Friday, Juncker said that the deal the EU and the UK achieved was the best and only deal possible.

Juncker repeated that neither side wanted ever to use a "backstop" that would keep Britain in a customs union with the EU in the absence of a better way to avoid extensive border checks between Northern Ireland and EU member Ireland.

May is on a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/may-tours-europe-in-desperate-bid-to-save-brexit-deal-183199">tour of EU capitals</a> to seek last minute changes to the already agreed deal on Britain's withdrawal from the EU in order to push the agreement through British parliament. She was also expected to meet European Council President Donald Tusk later in the day in Brussels.

The European Union is willing to give Britain further clarifications on its Brexit deal but will not renegotiate the treaty or its protocol on the Irish border, EU chief executive Jean-Claude Juncker said on Tuesday (December 11).

The European Union is willing to give Britain further clarifications on its Brexit deal but will not renegotiate the treaty or its protocol on the Irish border, EU chief executive Jean-Claude Juncker said on Tuesday (December 11). Addressing the European Parliament in Strasbourg, the European Commission president said he was "surprised" at Prime Minister Theresa May's inability to get the package agreed with the EU last month through the British parliament. Noting that he would meet May in Brussels on Tuesday evening ahead of an EU summit on Thursday and Friday, Juncker said that the deal the EU and the UK achieved was the best and only deal possible. Juncker repeated that neither side wanted ever to use a "backstop" that would keep Britain in a customs union with the EU in the absence of a better way to avoid extensive border checks between Northern Ireland and EU member Ireland. May is on a tour of EU capitals to seek last minute changes to the already agreed deal on Britain's withdrawal from the EU in order to push the agreement through British parliament. She was also expected to meet European Council President Donald Tusk later in the day in Brussels.

European Union offers new Brexit deal clarity, won't renegotiate: EU chief executive Juncker

Breaking News: Theresa May could postpone Brexit deal vote

Extradition case: 67 fugitives extradited in last 16 years

Breaking News: UK judge orders Vijay Mallya's extradition

Extradition case: Fugitive Mallya faces UK court

Vijay Mallya extradition verdict expected shortly

Vijay Mallya arrives in UK court; verdict on case shortly

By Oliver Patel

Stopping Brexit is possible, but it’s complicated. I’m not arguing here that no Brexit is going to happen, only that it is legally and practically possible, and recent events render it slightly more likely.

The only way Brexit can be stopped is if the Article 50 notification, triggered in March 2017 to begin the UK’s departure from the EU, is revoked. Under EU law, once Article 50 is triggered, the departing state automatically leaves the EU after two years, unless Article 50 is extended.

Unfortunately, the short text of Article 50 doesn’t say whether the departing state can unilaterally revoke its notification to leave, or whether the consent of the remaining EU member states is required. A case, currently under consideration by the European Court of Justice (CJEU), will determine just that.

On December 4, the advocate general, Campos Sánchez-Bordona, issued his opinion to the court, arguing that Article 50 is unilaterally revocable. He argued that if the consent of the EU27 was required, this could lead to the departing state being forced to leave the EU against its will, which would be unacceptable.

If the CJEU upholds this opinion in its final judgement due on December 10 – which is not guaranteed – the UK would be able to revoke Article 50 unilaterally, provided it was acting in good faith.

Changes needed to UK law

A revocation of Article 50 would have to be initiated by the UK. It’s anticipated that parliamentary approval, via an act of parliament, would also be required to revoke Article 50, although some constitutional lawyers disagree. Even if parliamentary approval was not legally required, it’s difficult to imagine the government revoking Article 50 without parliament’s backing.

The June 2016 referendum imposed no legal obligation on the government to implement the result. However, the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018 sets the date of Brexit as March 29, 2019 in law. Crucially, it also repeals the European Communities Act 1972, which is the legislation that brought the UK into the EU. This means that a change in UK law is also required to stop Brexit.

So, to stop Brexit, Article 50 would need to be revoked, and, after that, the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018 must be repealed. Even if parliamentary approval is not required for the former, it is for the latter.

A new mandate from the public

In the UK’s democracy, parliament is sovereign and it would be entitled to try and stop Brexit if it wanted. Still, it’s implausible to imagine this parliament, or any future parliament, trying to stop Brexit without some form of electoral mandate.

A general election or second referendum could provide one. The Fixed-term Parliaments Act 2011 means that a general election is unlikely, as it would require two-thirds of MPs to vote in favour of one. Alternatively, a majority of MPs would need to vote in favour of a no-confidence motion against the government. If no new government can then be formed within 14 days, a general election would be triggered.

A second referendum is perhaps more likely. It would require primary legislation, and therefore the support of a majority of MPs. A referendum could come about via an amendment to the “meaningful vote” on the withdrawal agreement on December 11 which makes approval of it, or approval of the subsequent implementing legislation, conditional on a referendum.

A referendum could also emerge if MPs reject Theresa May’s deal. To avoid the UK leaving the EU without a deal – and if no better deal can be negotiated and win the support of parliament – MPs might then seek to force a second referendum to break the impasse.

Dominic Grieve’s amendment, passed on December 4 in a significant defeat for the government, makes such a move easier. By law, the government is required to produce a written statement to MPs outlining its plan, within 21 days of the deal being rejected.

MPs then vote on a motion on the basis of that statement. Grieve’s amendment now enables MPs to table amendments to this motion, thereby giving them much more political control over what happens next if the deal is voted down. If at this stage, a majority of MPs support a second referendum, they could amend the motion to require one, and it could be politically impossible for the government to ignore their will.

A second referendum would require a minimum of 22 weeks to organise and hold. This means that Article 50 would need to be extended because there wouldn’t be enough time before the end of March 2019. It’s reasonable to assume that the EU would unanimously agree to an extension if it was for the purpose of a second referendum. The date of Brexit in UK law would also need to be amended, but this should not be a problem if a majority of MPs have voted for a second referendum.

High levels of uncertainty

The path to stopping Brexit is fraught with legal uncertainty and political controversy. Although it’s possible – and more likely now than a few days ago – it remains a highly uncertain prospect. May’s deal could pass, perhaps in a second vote if the first ends in defeat. No deal still remains the default outcome, and so cannot be ruled out. Crucially, the UK will automatically leave the EU on March 29, 2019, with or without a deal, unless Article 50 is extended or revoked.

Amid the uncertainty, what’s clear is that stopping Brexit requires a majority in parliament to change the law, force a second referendum or general election, and revoke Article 50. It also requires a cooperative and patient EU, to allow for an extension of Article 50 and potentially consent to its revocation. Finally, it requires a willing public, which is probably the biggest obstacle on the tumultuous path to stopping Brexit.

(Oliver Patel is Research Associate, UCL European Institute)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/brexit-is-it-possible-to-stop-it-107750">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) 
&nbsp;

By Oliver Patel Stopping Brexit is possible, but it’s complicated. I’m not arguing here that no Brexit is going to happen, only that it is legally and practically possible, and recent events render it slightly more likely.

By Oliver Patel Stopping Brexit is possible, but it’s complicated. I’m not arguing here that no Brexit is going to happen, only that it is legally and practically possible, and recent events render it slightly more likely. The only way Brexit can be stopped is if the Article 50 notification, triggered in March 2017 to begin the UK’s departure from the EU, is revoked. Under EU law, once Article 50 is triggered, the departing state automatically leaves the EU after two years, unless Article 50 is extended. Unfortunately, the short text of Article 50 doesn’t say whether the departing state can unilaterally revoke its notification to leave, or whether the consent of the remaining EU member states is required. A case, currently under consideration by the European Court of Justice (CJEU), will determine just that. On December 4, the advocate general, Campos Sánchez-Bordona, issued his opinion to the court, arguing that Article 50 is unilaterally revocable. He argued that if the consent of the EU27 was required, this could lead to the departing state being forced to leave the EU against its will, which would be unacceptable. If the CJEU upholds this opinion in its final judgement due on December 10 – which is not guaranteed – the UK would be able to revoke Article 50 unilaterally, provided it was acting in good faith. Changes needed to UK law A revocation of Article 50 would have to be initiated by the UK. It’s anticipated that parliamentary approval, via an act of parliament, would also be required to revoke Article 50, although some constitutional lawyers disagree. Even if parliamentary approval was not legally required, it’s difficult to imagine the government revoking Article 50 without parliament’s backing. The June 2016 referendum imposed no legal obligation on the government to implement the result. However, the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018 sets the date of Brexit as March 29, 2019 in law. Crucially, it also repeals the European Communities Act 1972, which is the legislation that brought the UK into the EU. This means that a change in UK law is also required to stop Brexit. So, to stop Brexit, Article 50 would need to be revoked, and, after that, the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018 must be repealed. Even if parliamentary approval is not required for the former, it is for the latter. A new mandate from the public In the UK’s democracy, parliament is sovereign and it would be entitled to try and stop Brexit if it wanted. Still, it’s implausible to imagine this parliament, or any future parliament, trying to stop Brexit without some form of electoral mandate. A general election or second referendum could provide one. The Fixed-term Parliaments Act 2011 means that a general election is unlikely, as it would require two-thirds of MPs to vote in favour of one. Alternatively, a majority of MPs would need to vote in favour of a no-confidence motion against the government. If no new government can then be formed within 14 days, a general election would be triggered. A second referendum is perhaps more likely. It would require primary legislation, and therefore the support of a majority of MPs. A referendum could come about via an amendment to the “meaningful vote” on the withdrawal agreement on December 11 which makes approval of it, or approval of the subsequent implementing legislation, conditional on a referendum. A referendum could also emerge if MPs reject Theresa May’s deal. To avoid the UK leaving the EU without a deal – and if no better deal can be negotiated and win the support of parliament – MPs might then seek to force a second referendum to break the impasse. Dominic Grieve’s amendment, passed on December 4 in a significant defeat for the government, makes such a move easier. By law, the government is required to produce a written statement to MPs outlining its plan, within 21 days of the deal being rejected. MPs then vote on a motion on the basis of that statement. Grieve’s amendment now enables MPs to table amendments to this motion, thereby giving them much more political control over what happens next if the deal is voted down. If at this stage, a majority of MPs support a second referendum, they could amend the motion to require one, and it could be politically impossible for the government to ignore their will. A second referendum would require a minimum of 22 weeks to organise and hold. This means that Article 50 would need to be extended because there wouldn’t be enough time before the end of March 2019. It’s reasonable to assume that the EU would unanimously agree to an extension if it was for the purpose of a second referendum. The date of Brexit in UK law would also need to be amended, but this should not be a problem if a majority of MPs have voted for a second referendum. High levels of uncertainty The path to stopping Brexit is fraught with legal uncertainty and political controversy. Although it’s possible – and more likely now than a few days ago – it remains a highly uncertain prospect. May’s deal could pass, perhaps in a second vote if the first ends in defeat. No deal still remains the default outcome, and so cannot be ruled out. Crucially, the UK will automatically leave the EU on March 29, 2019, with or without a deal, unless Article 50 is extended or revoked. Amid the uncertainty, what’s clear is that stopping Brexit requires a majority in parliament to change the law, force a second referendum or general election, and revoke Article 50. It also requires a cooperative and patient EU, to allow for an extension of Article 50 and potentially consent to its revocation. Finally, it requires a willing public, which is probably the biggest obstacle on the tumultuous path to stopping Brexit. (Oliver Patel is Research Associate, UCL European Institute) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Brexit: Is it possible to stop it?

London pub displays 95 Christmas trees, 21,500 fairy lights

In a candid conversation with WION, the UK-based Bharulata Patel opened up about her achievement of becoming the first Indian-origin woman to drive single-handedly through the Arctic Circle.&nbsp;Bharulata was accompanied by her two children, Priyam, 13, and Aarush, 10. &nbsp;

"Driving has been my passion for a very long time. I started driving 22 years ago. As a young college girl, I got a second-hand car and took it for a spin. Loud music was also a part of the joyful rides and eventually, the drill became my therapeutic hobby and stress buster. Soon I was an explorer and this became a part of me," Bharulata told WION.&nbsp;

But it has been no easy journey. In October 2007, Bharulata met with a major accident while she was pregnant with her second child. As a result, apart from her other serious injuries, she gave birth to a premature baby.&nbsp;It took her 55 counselling sessions and five years to get behind the wheel again.

Since then, Bharulata has achieved the stupendous feats of travelling 35,000 kilometres across 32 countries (from UK to India), and travelling 2,792 km in 39 hours (that was a record).

"I was diagnosed with cancer in December 2017, which has changed my life. One day both my children came to me and the younger one gave a fantastic idea that we should go to the North Pole and meet Santa. He wanted to meet Santa Claus and ask him to pass his message to God to remove cancer from the world. They also made the suggestion that this trip would also take my mind off cancer," said&nbsp;Bharulata.

And so on October 21 this year she began to drive up to the Arctic Circle. She completed her expedition on November 9.&nbsp;

WION: How difficult or easy was it to take your children with you?

Bharulata Patel: I think the most difficult part was convincing the school to send the children with me. Here in UK, if the kids take a break from school then both the parents have to pay a fine of 60 pounds per child per day. Which is a huge amount of money, but I was able to convince the school that it would be a great educational and learning opportunity for the kids and they would get to know about the weather, landscape, flora, fauna and the human habitat there. Later, the journey was followed by a lot of schools. Also, my children got a chance to see the 7 kilometre-long tunnel which is 700 feet below the sea. They also saw the Nordkapp Globe Monument in Norway where the land ends five feet after the structure.

WION: Most memorable moment on your Arctic expedition?

BP: The most memorable moment for me which will always make me proud is that I was able to give my children an opportunity to hoist the Indian flag in the Arctic Circle. Seeing my children hoisting it made me really happy and feel honoured. Another horrific instance that has become a memory now is when I was stuck and stranded in the snow for a couple of hours amid a snowstorm. Later, Swedish authorities had to come to rescue us. However, I had this idea in my mind constantly whether I am putting my children through too much? But they enjoyed the snow and were sure that somebody will come to get them. Also, they would have an amusing tale to tell their friends.

<img alt="Bharulata and her children at Norway's Nordkapp Globe Monument which marks Europe's highest point. " data-align="left" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="324fcdaa-c7fb-49a3-9df0-a1f9d7210b4f" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design_4.jpg" />

(Bharulata and her children at Norway's Nordkapp Globe Monument which marks Europe's highest point.)

<img alt="Bharulata and her children on the road. " data-align="left" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d6b5b73d-f4f9-4781-a831-7b108306d841" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%283%29_3.jpg" />

(Bharulata, Priyam and Aarush on the road.)

<img alt="A snapshot from the road. " data-align="left" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="60459fc0-6b06-4a3c-84ad-3ebbbab00775" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29_3.jpg" />

(A snapshot from the road.)

WION: How do you feel after your feat?

BP: I feel absolutely brilliant. I follow one motto in my life — Be bold, be the Change! You can be the change. You have the ability to change the world but start with yourself.&nbsp;

WION: What are your future expedition plans?

BP: I have planned to travel across 50 countries alone, this project has already been presented in the British parliament but the cancer treatment has put the plan on hold. However, I would be working on achieving the record soon which still remains unconquered.

WION: Who has been your source of inspiration?

BP: I draw my inspiration from my grandfather who always taught me to remain positive no matter how people behave with you. He inspired me to work hard, have a clear goal and perseverance to achieve.

WION: Did your passion meet societal — a woman driving out on expeditions single-handedly — hindrances? &nbsp;

BP: My husband has been my support system. He was always been there for me and has always encouraged me. He did not tell my in-laws about my 32-countries journey. It came as a surprise for them but they also took it positively. However, there were other people who asked me to stay at home as I had a well-settled life. They used to remind me about my accident and nobody believed that I could do it but then I travelled to 32 countries. People used to tell me that I am insane to which I just replied, 'Only insane people create history'.

In a candid conversation with WION, the UK-based Bharulata Patel opened up about her achievement of becoming the first Indian-origin woman to drive single-handedly through the Arctic Circle.

In a candid conversation with WION, the UK-based Bharulata Patel opened up about her achievement of becoming the first Indian-origin woman to drive single-handedly through the Arctic Circle. Bharulata was accompanied by her two children, Priyam, 13, and Aarush, 10. "Driving has been my passion for a very long time. I started driving 22 years ago. As a young college girl, I got a second-hand car and took it for a spin. Loud music was also a part of the joyful rides and eventually, the drill became my therapeutic hobby and stress buster. Soon I was an explorer and this became a part of me," Bharulata told WION. But it has been no easy journey. In October 2007, Bharulata met with a major accident while she was pregnant with her second child. As a result, apart from her other serious injuries, she gave birth to a premature baby. It took her 55 counselling sessions and five years to get behind the wheel again. Since then, Bharulata has achieved the stupendous feats of travelling 35,000 kilometres across 32 countries (from UK to India), and travelling 2,792 km in 39 hours (that was a record). "I was diagnosed with cancer in December 2017, which has changed my life. One day both my children came to me and the younger one gave a fantastic idea that we should go to the North Pole and meet Santa. He wanted to meet Santa Claus and ask him to pass his message to God to remove cancer from the world. They also made the suggestion that this trip would also take my mind off cancer," said Bharulata. And so on October 21 this year she began to drive up to the Arctic Circle. She completed her expedition on November 9. WION: How difficult or easy was it to take your children with you? Bharulata Patel: I think the most difficult part was convincing the school to send the children with me. Here in UK, if the kids take a break from school then both the parents have to pay a fine of 60 pounds per child per day. Which is a huge amount of money, but I was able to convince the school that it would be a great educational and learning opportunity for the kids and they would get to know about the weather, landscape, flora, fauna and the human habitat there. Later, the journey was followed by a lot of schools. Also, my children got a chance to see the 7 kilometre-long tunnel which is 700 feet below the sea. They also saw the Nordkapp Globe Monument in Norway where the land ends five feet after the structure. WION: Most memorable moment on your Arctic expedition? BP: The most memorable moment for me which will always make me proud is that I was able to give my children an opportunity to hoist the Indian flag in the Arctic Circle. Seeing my children hoisting it made me really happy and feel honoured. Another horrific instance that has become a memory now is when I was stuck and stranded in the snow for a couple of hours amid a snowstorm. Later, Swedish authorities had to come to rescue us. However, I had this idea in my mind constantly whether I am putting my children through too much? But they enjoyed the snow and were sure that somebody will come to get them. Also, they would have an amusing tale to tell their friends. (Bharulata and her children at Norway's Nordkapp Globe Monument which marks Europe's highest point.) (Bharulata, Priyam and Aarush on the road.) (A snapshot from the road.) WION: How do you feel after your feat? BP: I feel absolutely brilliant. I follow one motto in my life — Be bold, be the Change! You can be the change. You have the ability to change the world but start with yourself. WION: What are your future expedition plans? BP: I have planned to travel across 50 countries alone, this project has already been presented in the British parliament but the cancer treatment has put the plan on hold. However, I would be working on achieving the record soon which still remains unconquered. WION: Who has been your source of inspiration? BP: I draw my inspiration from my grandfather who always taught me to remain positive no matter how people behave with you. He inspired me to work hard, have a clear goal and perseverance to achieve. WION: Did your passion meet societal — a woman driving out on expeditions single-handedly — hindrances? BP: My husband has been my support system. He was always been there for me and has always encouraged me. He did not tell my in-laws about my 32-countries journey. It came as a surprise for them but they also took it positively. However, there were other people who asked me to stay at home as I had a well-settled life. They used to remind me about my accident and nobody believed that I could do it but then I travelled to 32 countries. People used to tell me that I am insane to which I just replied, 'Only insane people create history'.

My kids wanted to meet Santa at North Pole, Indian-origin woman who drove through Arctic Circle tells WION

The United Kingdom government`s move to not publish the full legal advice based on which it formulated the Brexit plan, was on Tuesday (local time) found to be in contempt of the Parliament.

This marks the first-ever instance where the British government has been found to be in contempt of the Parliament, CNN reported.

The Prime Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/british-government-loses-key-parliament-vote-on-brexit-181516">Theresa May-led Conservative Party government</a> lost the vote&nbsp;by a margin of 18 votes (311 for, 293 against) in the House of Commons, a heavy blow to the government ahead of the five-day debate on the proposed Brexit agreement.

The House of Commons took to Twitter to confirm the outcome of the vote and that ministers were found to be in contempt.

"House of Commons votes 311 to 293 to approve the privilege motion, finding Ministers in contempt and ordering the immediate publication of the full legal advice on the #Brexit deal," the tweet read.

Following the defeat, the government confirmed that it would release the legal advice, which was prepared by Attorney general Geoffrey Cox, on Wednesday.

Prior to the voting, May spoke to the Cabinet about the "candid" legal advice given to ministers, stressing the importance of keeping it confidential.

According to CNN, the Labour Party`s Brexit spokesperson Keir Starmer said that the defeat in the House was a "badge of shame" for the government. He further told the British Press Association that the decision had "huge constitutional and political significance".

The contempt vote comes as senior legislators from six parties urged, via a joint letter, the Speaker of the House of Commons, John Bercow, to launch proceedings under contempt of Parliament against the government.

"The Government has failed to publish the Attorney General`s full and final legal advice on the Brexit deal, as was ordered by Parliament. We have been left with no option but to write to the Speaker of the House of Commons to ask him to launch proceedings of contempt," Starmer tweeted earlier.

Starmer had accused the government of "willfully refusing to comply" with the order of the Parliament during the debate on Tuesday. "This is contempt," he added.

The day started on a bad note for the British government as a top European Union (EU) law officer that the UK could unilaterally cancel the Brexit process.

The Advocate General told the European Court of Justice that the approval of the remaining 27 EU member nations is not necessary for the cancellation of the two-year countdown for Brexit.

This was followed by the House of Commons approving an amendment which gives the Parliament more influence over the process if the government`s deal was to be rejected by lawmakers next week.

In 2016, over 50 per cent of the UK electorate voted to leave the EU, following which the British government had triggered Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty, beginning the country`s process of its exit from the European bloc.

According to the draft deal, the UK is scheduled to leave the bloc on March 29, 2019, after which it will move into a 21-month long transitionary period (post-Brexit transition).&nbsp;

The United Kingdom government`s move to not publish the full legal advice based on which it formulated the Brexit plan, was on Tuesday (local time) found to be in contempt of the Parliament.

The United Kingdom government`s move to not publish the full legal advice based on which it formulated the Brexit plan, was on Tuesday (local time) found to be in contempt of the Parliament. This marks the first-ever instance where the British government has been found to be in contempt of the Parliament, CNN reported. The Prime Minister Theresa May-led Conservative Party government lost the vote by a margin of 18 votes (311 for, 293 against) in the House of Commons, a heavy blow to the government ahead of the five-day debate on the proposed Brexit agreement. The House of Commons took to Twitter to confirm the outcome of the vote and that ministers were found to be in contempt. "House of Commons votes 311 to 293 to approve the privilege motion, finding Ministers in contempt and ordering the immediate publication of the full legal advice on the #Brexit deal," the tweet read. Following the defeat, the government confirmed that it would release the legal advice, which was prepared by Attorney general Geoffrey Cox, on Wednesday. Prior to the voting, May spoke to the Cabinet about the "candid" legal advice given to ministers, stressing the importance of keeping it confidential. According to CNN, the Labour Party`s Brexit spokesperson Keir Starmer said that the defeat in the House was a "badge of shame" for the government. He further told the British Press Association that the decision had "huge constitutional and political significance". The contempt vote comes as senior legislators from six parties urged, via a joint letter, the Speaker of the House of Commons, John Bercow, to launch proceedings under contempt of Parliament against the government. "The Government has failed to publish the Attorney General`s full and final legal advice on the Brexit deal, as was ordered by Parliament. We have been left with no option but to write to the Speaker of the House of Commons to ask him to launch proceedings of contempt," Starmer tweeted earlier. Starmer had accused the government of "willfully refusing to comply" with the order of the Parliament during the debate on Tuesday. "This is contempt," he added. The day started on a bad note for the British government as a top European Union (EU) law officer that the UK could unilaterally cancel the Brexit process. The Advocate General told the European Court of Justice that the approval of the remaining 27 EU member nations is not necessary for the cancellation of the two-year countdown for Brexit. This was followed by the House of Commons approving an amendment which gives the Parliament more influence over the process if the government`s deal was to be rejected by lawmakers next week. In 2016, over 50 per cent of the UK electorate voted to leave the EU, following which the British government had triggered Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty, beginning the country`s process of its exit from the European bloc. According to the draft deal, the UK is scheduled to leave the bloc on March 29, 2019, after which it will move into a 21-month long transitionary period (post-Brexit transition).

Brexit: UK government found in contempt of Parliament

Theresa May reassures world leaders on Brexit deal

By Andrew Woodhouse

It’s still unclear whether the UK’s withdrawal agreement with the EU will actually ever come into force. While it’s been agreed by EU leaders, serious doubts remain over whether it will be approved by MPs in Westminster. The prime minister, Theresa May, has assured UK citizens that the deal is the best that the UK can achieve, warning that without it, the country may crash out of the EU without a deal.

The agreement outlines a transitional period that will last from March 30, 2019 until 31 December 2020. This period could be extended for up to one or two years if both sides agree. But how will life for all UK citizens be affected by this transition period? What will change and what will stay the same?

It’s easy to forget that this agreement is just the first step in negotiations and there is still much to be decided in the future. The emphasis of the withdrawal agreement is on ensuring stability in both the EU and the UK while negotiations on the future relationship continue, based on the priorities set out in an accompanying political declaration.

With stability as its aim, a key aspect of the withdrawal agreement is the fact that it will keep nearly all of EU law in place until the end of the transitional period. This means that little will change for individuals and businesses during this time, with the UK essentially remaining in the single market during the transition.

Significant rules affecting people’s everyday lives, such as the right to travel to other EU countries without visa restrictions, will remain in place. The only exceptions to this are the areas where the UK already had opt-outs from EU law and certain rules in the area of EU foreign policy. Aside from this, UK courts are bound to act in conformity with EU law during the transition period, for which the EU and the UK expect to conclude a specific treaty in the near future.

The free movement of people will continue during the transition period, meaning EU citizens can continue to move here and work here and Britons can continue to move to the rest of the EU. But new controls will be put in place, for example, EU citizens living in the UK will need to register for a new government Settled Status scheme by June 30, 2021. If the option to add a year or two to the transition period is taken, then the deadline for this scheme will also be extended.

New EU laws

EU laws can often have an impact on the everyday lives of people in the UK. Notable initiatives in recent years include abolishing roaming charges in other EU countries which saves Britons money on phone bills when travelling to Europe, and abolishing credit card charge fees. Many might not be aware that these rules were made by the EU, especially when the UK government often tries to claim credit when such ideas are popular.

As well as continuing to apply old laws, the UK will also be obliged to apply any new laws which are passed during the transition period. One such law which would impact on people’s everyday lives is the proposed abolition of daylight saving time. As it stands, an EU directive requires all EU member states to put the clocks back on the last Sunday of October and bring them forward again on the last Sunday of March.

The EU Commission has proposed a new directive which could abolish these changes, leaving EU countries on the same time throughout the year. Under the terms of the withdrawal agreement, the UK would be bound by this directive if it comes into force, which may result in the UK remaining on “summer time” throughout the year in 2020.

Political control

One of the aspects of the agreement that has caused the most objection across the political spectrum is the fact that the UK must accept EU laws made during the transition period, without having any say on how they are made. As a member of the EU, the UK had the ability to object to legislation, or aim to shape it based on its preferences. Under the terms of the withdrawal agreement, the UK will have the same obligations, without the usual privileges in influencing the creation of law.

The UK will lose its representative in the EU Council and the UK members of the European Parliament. This means that the elections to the 2019 European parliament will be the first in which UK citizens won’t have the right to vote in. These changes will limit the ability of people in the UK to challenge and shape new EU legislation that will continue to affect them until the end of the transition period.

Aside from this loss of political power, very little would change for the UK and its citizens during the transition period. It’s after the end of any transition that more significant changes would take place, and part three of the withdrawal agreement describes how further separation would come into force. The Irish border backstop part of the agreement also ensures that there will be no hard border on the island of Ireland, even if the transition period expires without another trade deal being agreed.

So if the withdrawal agreement does come into force, it would be a gentle first step towards Brexit, with the potential for more significant changes depending on whatever future trade agreement takes shape as negotiations continue.

 
(Andrew Woodhouse is Lecturer in Law, University of Liverpool)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/brexit-transition-what-will-and-wont-change-for-britons-after-march-2019-107558">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) 
&nbsp;

By Andrew Woodhouse It’s still unclear whether the UK’s withdrawal agreement with the EU will actually ever come into force. While it’s been agreed by EU leaders, serious doubts remain over whether it will be approved by MPs in Westminster.

By Andrew Woodhouse It’s still unclear whether the UK’s withdrawal agreement with the EU will actually ever come into force. While it’s been agreed by EU leaders, serious doubts remain over whether it will be approved by MPs in Westminster. The prime minister, Theresa May, has assured UK citizens that the deal is the best that the UK can achieve, warning that without it, the country may crash out of the EU without a deal. The agreement outlines a transitional period that will last from March 30, 2019 until 31 December 2020. This period could be extended for up to one or two years if both sides agree. But how will life for all UK citizens be affected by this transition period? What will change and what will stay the same? It’s easy to forget that this agreement is just the first step in negotiations and there is still much to be decided in the future. The emphasis of the withdrawal agreement is on ensuring stability in both the EU and the UK while negotiations on the future relationship continue, based on the priorities set out in an accompanying political declaration. With stability as its aim, a key aspect of the withdrawal agreement is the fact that it will keep nearly all of EU law in place until the end of the transitional period. This means that little will change for individuals and businesses during this time, with the UK essentially remaining in the single market during the transition. Significant rules affecting people’s everyday lives, such as the right to travel to other EU countries without visa restrictions, will remain in place. The only exceptions to this are the areas where the UK already had opt-outs from EU law and certain rules in the area of EU foreign policy. Aside from this, UK courts are bound to act in conformity with EU law during the transition period, for which the EU and the UK expect to conclude a specific treaty in the near future. The free movement of people will continue during the transition period, meaning EU citizens can continue to move here and work here and Britons can continue to move to the rest of the EU. But new controls will be put in place, for example, EU citizens living in the UK will need to register for a new government Settled Status scheme by June 30, 2021. If the option to add a year or two to the transition period is taken, then the deadline for this scheme will also be extended. New EU laws EU laws can often have an impact on the everyday lives of people in the UK. Notable initiatives in recent years include abolishing roaming charges in other EU countries which saves Britons money on phone bills when travelling to Europe, and abolishing credit card charge fees. Many might not be aware that these rules were made by the EU, especially when the UK government often tries to claim credit when such ideas are popular. As well as continuing to apply old laws, the UK will also be obliged to apply any new laws which are passed during the transition period. One such law which would impact on people’s everyday lives is the proposed abolition of daylight saving time. As it stands, an EU directive requires all EU member states to put the clocks back on the last Sunday of October and bring them forward again on the last Sunday of March. The EU Commission has proposed a new directive which could abolish these changes, leaving EU countries on the same time throughout the year. Under the terms of the withdrawal agreement, the UK would be bound by this directive if it comes into force, which may result in the UK remaining on “summer time” throughout the year in 2020. Political control One of the aspects of the agreement that has caused the most objection across the political spectrum is the fact that the UK must accept EU laws made during the transition period, without having any say on how they are made. As a member of the EU, the UK had the ability to object to legislation, or aim to shape it based on its preferences. Under the terms of the withdrawal agreement, the UK will have the same obligations, without the usual privileges in influencing the creation of law. The UK will lose its representative in the EU Council and the UK members of the European Parliament. This means that the elections to the 2019 European parliament will be the first in which UK citizens won’t have the right to vote in. These changes will limit the ability of people in the UK to challenge and shape new EU legislation that will continue to affect them until the end of the transition period. Aside from this loss of political power, very little would change for the UK and its citizens during the transition period. It’s after the end of any transition that more significant changes would take place, and part three of the withdrawal agreement describes how further separation would come into force. The Irish border backstop part of the agreement also ensures that there will be no hard border on the island of Ireland, even if the transition period expires without another trade deal being agreed. So if the withdrawal agreement does come into force, it would be a gentle first step towards Brexit, with the potential for more significant changes depending on whatever future trade agreement takes shape as negotiations continue. (Andrew Woodhouse is Lecturer in Law, University of Liverpool) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Brexit transition: What will and won’t change for Britons

Britain's main opposition Labour Party set out its bid to block a "no deal" Brexit on Wednesday, saying it wanted to put the idea to a vote in parliament during a debate on the exit agreement Prime Minister Theresa May has negotiated.

On December 11 May has to pull off what looks like an unlikely victory in parliament to approve the deal she agreed in Brussels on Sunday. Britain`s parliament is deeply divided on the issue and time is running short to ratify the deal and complete preparations ahead of Britain`s planned departure from the European Union on March 29.&nbsp;

Many in her own Conservative Party and among the opposition have said they will vote against her Brexit deal. She argues that if it is rejected, Britain will leave the bloc without any agreement.

Labour reject that outcome and are seeking to put political pressure on her during the debate by proposing a so-called amendment to the approval motion - a manoeuvre which could be used to show parliament opposes a no-deal exit.

"Labour will oppose Theresa May`s botched Brexit deal that puts jobs, rights and people`s livelihoods at risk," leader Jeremy Corbyn said in a statement. 
"There is a sensible deal that could win the support of parliament, based on a comprehensive customs union, with a British say in future trade deals, and a strong single market deal that protects rights at work and environmental safeguards and helps us to rebuild our economy and expand our public services," Corbyn said.

May will likely have to defeat the Labour amendment at a vote. If she loses, the result does not have the power to force her hand, but it could prove politically impossible to ignore and thus prevent an exit deal being ratified.&nbsp;

Labour would work across parliamentary party divides to keep all options open to protect Britain from a no-deal scenario, and said a general election was "the best outcome for the country."

Earlier on Wednesday, Labour`s finance chief John McDonnell told the BBC that if a general election were not possible, Labour could push for a second EU referendum -- something May has consistently ruled out.&nbsp;

Britain's main opposition Labour Party set out its bid to block a "no deal" Brexit on Wednesday, saying it wanted to put the idea to a vote in parliament during a debate on the exit agreement Prime Minister Theresa May has negotiated.

Britain's main opposition Labour Party set out its bid to block a "no deal" Brexit on Wednesday, saying it wanted to put the idea to a vote in parliament during a debate on the exit agreement Prime Minister Theresa May has negotiated. On December 11 May has to pull off what looks like an unlikely victory in parliament to approve the deal she agreed in Brussels on Sunday. Britain`s parliament is deeply divided on the issue and time is running short to ratify the deal and complete preparations ahead of Britain`s planned departure from the European Union on March 29. Many in her own Conservative Party and among the opposition have said they will vote against her Brexit deal. She argues that if it is rejected, Britain will leave the bloc without any agreement. Labour reject that outcome and are seeking to put political pressure on her during the debate by proposing a so-called amendment to the approval motion - a manoeuvre which could be used to show parliament opposes a no-deal exit. "Labour will oppose Theresa May`s botched Brexit deal that puts jobs, rights and people`s livelihoods at risk," leader Jeremy Corbyn said in a statement. "There is a sensible deal that could win the support of parliament, based on a comprehensive customs union, with a British say in future trade deals, and a strong single market deal that protects rights at work and environmental safeguards and helps us to rebuild our economy and expand our public services," Corbyn said. May will likely have to defeat the Labour amendment at a vote. If she loses, the result does not have the power to force her hand, but it could prove politically impossible to ignore and thus prevent an exit deal being ratified. Labour would work across parliamentary party divides to keep all options open to protect Britain from a no-deal scenario, and said a general election was "the best outcome for the country." Earlier on Wednesday, Labour`s finance chief John McDonnell told the BBC that if a general election were not possible, Labour could push for a second EU referendum -- something May has consistently ruled out.

UK's Labour to propose amendment aimed at avoiding no-deal Brexit

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/europe/27-european-union-leaders-approve-brexit-deal-with-britain-eu-council-president-donald-tusk-179318">divorce deal approved by Britain and the European Union </a>on Sunday sets the stage for the end of a nearly 46-year marriage of convenience, built on prudence rather than shared dreams.

"It's been a utilitarian relationship since 1973 and the emphasis was always on the economic dimension, not on the political one," said Pauline Schnapper, professor of contemporary British history at the Sorbonne University in Paris.

"The sentimental dimension is near non-existent."

Britain was against joining the European project when it was conceived after the Second World War in a spirit of reconciliation.&nbsp;

"We didn't feel vulnerable enough to join," said Anand Menon, a professor of European politics at King's College London.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/this-is-the-only-possible-deal-may-on-brexit-179368">'This is the only possible deal': May on Brexit</a>

Instead, Britain preferred to focus on its special relationship with the United States and the remains of its empire.

London nevertheless supported the push for closer integration on the European continent and wartime prime minister Winston Churchill memorably called for the creation of a "United States of Europe" in a 1946 Zurich speech.

But in the early 1960s, Britain's fortunes changed for the worse. 
Its economic growth started lagging behind that of France and Germany, making the European single market on its doorstep seem an appealing option.

'I want my money back'

"The UK's leaders came to realise that the UK could not be outside what, by the 1960s, was fast becoming western Europe's leading organisation for economics, politics and non-traditional security matters," said Tim Oliver, lecturer at London's Loughborough University.

"The UK had to be inside it to shape it."&nbsp;

But joining the European project was not an easy task.

France's then-president Charles de Gaulle vetoed Britain's first application in 1961, seeing it as a "Trojan Horse" for the United States and doubting Britain's European spirit.

Another French veto followed in 1967 and the UK was only finally welcomed into the then European Economic Community (EEC) on January 1, 1973. 
Unfortunately for Britain, the first oil crisis struck the same year and the much-hoped-for economic boost failed to materialise.

Nevertheless, 67 per cent of the British people voted to remain in the EEC in a 1975 referendum.

But the result did little to temper euro scepticism in Britain, with politicians of all stripes reluctant to defend the project and the first crisis was not long in coming.&nbsp;

London refused in 1979 to participate in the European monetary system, defending its national and fiscal sovereignty.

It then resisted initiatives to deepen political integration, reinforcing the criticism that Britain had "one foot in, one foot out" of the project.

Britain notably refused in 1985 to participate in the Schengen agreement for free movement, and in 1993 to join the euro.&nbsp;

Its anti-federalist approach was spelt out by prime minister Margaret Thatcher during a 1988 speech at the College of Europe in Bruges.

In it, she rejected the idea of a "European super-state exercising a new dominance from Brussels".

The Conservative leader had four years earlier finally won a rebate on Britain's contribution to the European budget, making the infamous demand: "I want my money back".&nbsp;

'Illusionary' freedom

With deeper European political union in the 1990s, Britain's defiance towards Brussels accelerated, leading to the creation of the UK Independence Party (UKIP), which campaigned for the country's exit from the EU.

The party's success, particularly in the 2014 European Parliament elections when it topped the polls, pushed the Conservative-led government to harden its rhetoric.

The eurozone crisis, large-scale immigration from the EU and the refugee crisis of the past few years stoked the discontent, pushing prime minister David Cameron to call the June 2016 referendum.

For pro-Brexit supporters, the vote to leave the EU will mean Britain finally "taking back control" of its borders, laws and finances.

"They had a rather dreamlike situation since they were in the union, yet had opt-outs on a number of things," noted Pascale Joannin, executive director of the Robert Schuman Foundation, named after the French politician considered to be one of the "founding fathers" of the European Union.

"But now they will be outside the union's institutions without a voice, and they will have to adhere to a number of European regulations", he added.

The divorce deal approved by Britain and the European Union on Sunday sets the stage for the end of a nearly 46-year marriage of convenience, built on prudence rather than shared dreams.

The divorce deal approved by Britain and the European Union on Sunday sets the stage for the end of a nearly 46-year marriage of convenience, built on prudence rather than shared dreams. "It's been a utilitarian relationship since 1973 and the emphasis was always on the economic dimension, not on the political one," said Pauline Schnapper, professor of contemporary British history at the Sorbonne University in Paris. "The sentimental dimension is near non-existent." Britain was against joining the European project when it was conceived after the Second World War in a spirit of reconciliation. "We didn't feel vulnerable enough to join," said Anand Menon, a professor of European politics at King's College London. Also read: 'This is the only possible deal': May on Brexit Instead, Britain preferred to focus on its special relationship with the United States and the remains of its empire. London nevertheless supported the push for closer integration on the European continent and wartime prime minister Winston Churchill memorably called for the creation of a "United States of Europe" in a 1946 Zurich speech. But in the early 1960s, Britain's fortunes changed for the worse. Its economic growth started lagging behind that of France and Germany, making the European single market on its doorstep seem an appealing option. 'I want my money back' "The UK's leaders came to realise that the UK could not be outside what, by the 1960s, was fast becoming western Europe's leading organisation for economics, politics and non-traditional security matters," said Tim Oliver, lecturer at London's Loughborough University. "The UK had to be inside it to shape it." But joining the European project was not an easy task. France's then-president Charles de Gaulle vetoed Britain's first application in 1961, seeing it as a "Trojan Horse" for the United States and doubting Britain's European spirit. Another French veto followed in 1967 and the UK was only finally welcomed into the then European Economic Community (EEC) on January 1, 1973. Unfortunately for Britain, the first oil crisis struck the same year and the much-hoped-for economic boost failed to materialise. Nevertheless, 67 per cent of the British people voted to remain in the EEC in a 1975 referendum. But the result did little to temper euro scepticism in Britain, with politicians of all stripes reluctant to defend the project and the first crisis was not long in coming. London refused in 1979 to participate in the European monetary system, defending its national and fiscal sovereignty. It then resisted initiatives to deepen political integration, reinforcing the criticism that Britain had "one foot in, one foot out" of the project. Britain notably refused in 1985 to participate in the Schengen agreement for free movement, and in 1993 to join the euro. Its anti-federalist approach was spelt out by prime minister Margaret Thatcher during a 1988 speech at the College of Europe in Bruges. In it, she rejected the idea of a "European super-state exercising a new dominance from Brussels". The Conservative leader had four years earlier finally won a rebate on Britain's contribution to the European budget, making the infamous demand: "I want my money back". 'Illusionary' freedom With deeper European political union in the 1990s, Britain's defiance towards Brussels accelerated, leading to the creation of the UK Independence Party (UKIP), which campaigned for the country's exit from the EU. The party's success, particularly in the 2014 European Parliament elections when it topped the polls, pushed the Conservative-led government to harden its rhetoric. The eurozone crisis, large-scale immigration from the EU and the refugee crisis of the past few years stoked the discontent, pushing prime minister David Cameron to call the June 2016 referendum. For pro-Brexit supporters, the vote to leave the EU will mean Britain finally "taking back control" of its borders, laws and finances. "They had a rather dreamlike situation since they were in the union, yet had opt-outs on a number of things," noted Pascale Joannin, executive director of the Robert Schuman Foundation, named after the French politician considered to be one of the "founding fathers" of the European Union. "But now they will be outside the union's institutions without a voice, and they will have to adhere to a number of European regulations", he added.

Brexit deal: The end of a loveless 46-year marriage

British Prime Minister Theresa May declared Sunday that a Brexit deal struck with the European Union is the only one possible, urging MPs and the British public to get behind it.&nbsp;

"If people think there is somehow another negotiation to be done, that is not the case," she told reporters after EU leaders approved the divorce text.&nbsp;

"This is the deal that is on the table, this is the best possible deal, it's the only possible deal."&nbsp;

British Prime Minister Theresa May declared Sunday that a Brexit deal struck with the European Union is the only one possible, urging MPs and the British public to get behind it.

British Prime Minister Theresa May declared Sunday that a Brexit deal struck with the European Union is the only one possible, urging MPs and the British public to get behind it. "If people think there is somehow another negotiation to be done, that is not the case," she told reporters after EU leaders approved the divorce text. "This is the deal that is on the table, this is the best possible deal, it's the only possible deal."

'This is the only possible deal': May on Brexit

Breaking News: EU leaders back Theresa May's Brexit deal

Russia "indisputably" now poses a bigger threat to Britain's security than terrorist groups like Islamic State (IS) and Al-Qaeda, the head of the British army said in an interview published Saturday.

General Mark Carleton-Smith warned Moscow had shown a willingness to use its military to pursue its national interests while seeking to "exploit Western vulnerabilities".

"Russia today indisputably represents a far greater threat to our national security than Islamic extremist threats such as Al-Qaeda and (IS)," he told The Daily Telegraph.

"Russia has embarked on a systematic effort to explore and exploit Western vulnerabilities, particularly in some of the non-traditional areas of cyber, space, undersea warfare."

Relations between Russia and Britain have sunk to historic lows this year.

London has blamed the country's military intelligence service for orchestrating the poisoning with a nerve agent of ex-Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia in the English city of Salisbury in March.

The incident prompted a wave of tit-for-tat diplomatic expulsions between Moscow and the West, as well as a ratcheting up of US sanctions.

Carleton-Smith, 54, said following IS battlefield loses in Syria and Iraq, the Western alliance must switch focus to the threat posed by Russia -- and do so through NATO.

"The physical manifestation of the Islamist threat has diminished with the complete destruction of the geography of the so-called Caliphate," he said.

"We cannot be complacent about the threat Russia poses or leave it uncontested.&nbsp;

"The most important conventional military response to Russia is the continued capabilities and coherence of the NATO alliance."

The former special forces commander was speaking in his first interview since becoming Britain's chief of the general staff in June.

He made the comments after visiting British troops deployed in Estonia as part of a NATO battle group intended to deter aggression from neighbouring Russia. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Carleton-Smith also took the opportunity to downplay the need for a separate European army, as recently encouraged by French President Emmanuel Macron.

"I would not support any initiative that diluted the military effectiveness of NATO," he said.

"NATO represents the fundamental gravity of European security.

"It has been an extraordinarily successful alliance and, in my experience, we should reinforce success."

Russia "indisputably" now poses a bigger threat to Britain's security than terrorist groups like Islamic State (IS) and Al-Qaeda, the head of the British army said in an interview published Saturday.

Russia "indisputably" now poses a bigger threat to Britain's security than terrorist groups like Islamic State (IS) and Al-Qaeda, the head of the British army said in an interview published Saturday. General Mark Carleton-Smith warned Moscow had shown a willingness to use its military to pursue its national interests while seeking to "exploit Western vulnerabilities". "Russia today indisputably represents a far greater threat to our national security than Islamic extremist threats such as Al-Qaeda and (IS)," he told The Daily Telegraph. "Russia has embarked on a systematic effort to explore and exploit Western vulnerabilities, particularly in some of the non-traditional areas of cyber, space, undersea warfare." Relations between Russia and Britain have sunk to historic lows this year. London has blamed the country's military intelligence service for orchestrating the poisoning with a nerve agent of ex-Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia in the English city of Salisbury in March. The incident prompted a wave of tit-for-tat diplomatic expulsions between Moscow and the West, as well as a ratcheting up of US sanctions. Carleton-Smith, 54, said following IS battlefield loses in Syria and Iraq, the Western alliance must switch focus to the threat posed by Russia -- and do so through NATO. "The physical manifestation of the Islamist threat has diminished with the complete destruction of the geography of the so-called Caliphate," he said. "We cannot be complacent about the threat Russia poses or leave it uncontested. "The most important conventional military response to Russia is the continued capabilities and coherence of the NATO alliance." The former special forces commander was speaking in his first interview since becoming Britain's chief of the general staff in June. He made the comments after visiting British troops deployed in Estonia as part of a NATO battle group intended to deter aggression from neighbouring Russia. Carleton-Smith also took the opportunity to downplay the need for a separate European army, as recently encouraged by French President Emmanuel Macron. "I would not support any initiative that diluted the military effectiveness of NATO," he said. "NATO represents the fundamental gravity of European security. "It has been an extraordinarily successful alliance and, in my experience, we should reinforce success."

Russia poses bigger threat to UK than terror groups: UK army chief

Prime Minister Theresa May said on Friday the European Union would not renegotiate the Brexit deal if Britain's parliament rejected the current version of the exit agreement.

"I believe if we were to go back to the European Union and say `well people didn`t like that deal, can we have another one?` ... I don`t think they`re going to come to us and say we`ll give you a better deal," she told BBC radio during a question and answer session with listeners.

Questioned repeatedly over whether she would resign if she loses a vote to approve the deal, expected in mid-December, she said her focus was on getting it through at the first attempt and not on her own future.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Theresa May said on Friday the European Union would not renegotiate the Brexit deal if Britain's parliament rejected the current version of the exit agreement.

Prime Minister Theresa May said on Friday the European Union would not renegotiate the Brexit deal if Britain's parliament rejected the current version of the exit agreement. "I believe if we were to go back to the European Union and say `well people didn`t like that deal, can we have another one?` ... I don`t think they`re going to come to us and say we`ll give you a better deal," she told BBC radio during a question and answer session with listeners. Questioned repeatedly over whether she would resign if she loses a vote to approve the deal, expected in mid-December, she said her focus was on getting it through at the first attempt and not on her own future.

EU won't give us better Brexit deal if parliament rejects current one: UK PM Theresa May

As the Brexit negotiations head towards an endgame, there is turmoil all around. British politics is on knife’s edge with the future of Prime Minister Theresa May and in some ways the entire Conservative Party on the line. The Opposition, too, is struggling to put its own house in order and even the European Union is facing disunity within its ranks despite pretensions of a united front.&nbsp;

Last week, an agreement on the withdrawal deal was reached in principle by May and the European Union (EU) which included a £39 billion “divorce bill” and the controversial customs “backstop” which keeps the UK temporarily in the EU customs union so as to prevent the return of manned customs posts at the Irish border. However, the joint political declaration on future relations which is to be confirmed on Sunday is only temporary. It will be the 21-month transition period after Britain leaves the EU on March 29, 2019, that would see the finalisation of the binding agreement. And this has led to challenges from all sides.

May is struggling to finalise a Brexit deal to be agreed at this Sunday’s summit of European leaders even as she is under pressure from her own MPs not to cede any further ground in negotiations. For the time being, her threat is that she has managed to get the best possible deal from the EU and that it’s either this deal or no deal and, therefore, no Brexit that has secured her position. But there is a demand for more clarity on all sides of the British Parliament about the exact terms of UK’s future engagement with the EU if at all the Parliament is to support the deal.&nbsp;

Despite a number of resignations from her cabinet and backroom manoeuvring to topple her from No 10 Downing Street, May looks stronger today than she looked last week and that’s a tribute to her own political skills and quite an accomplishment under the present circumstances. Yet her critics remain unrelenting. One of her strongest detractors, Jacob Rees-Mogg, has made a case that the time has come for May’s detractors to push for a confidence vote in May or face the spectacle of her leading the Tories into the next election. But he has accepted that he doesn’t have the required threshold of 48 letters needed to trigger a contest for Tory leadership. Opinion polls are also underscoring that support for May is growing among the British populace which is looking for a speedy resolution of this crisis. &nbsp;

On the other side, the EU had to complete the text on future ties with the UK on Tuesday but several member states have raised objection, leading to a delay. Countries have highlighted several issues such as UK access to the EU single market, access to UK waters for EU boats as well as Gibraltar. Spain, which is worried about the future status of Gibraltar, has warned it will reject the draft Brexit withdrawal deal without a clarification of the text on future talks on the status of Gibraltar. France has raised concerns about fishing rights and nations as the Netherlands and Denmark, remain concerned about the potential competitive advantage to UK businesses over the European without the UK being tied to strict environmental regulations.

Despite these concerns, Brussels would be hoping that when it would come to the crunch on Sunday, all 27 member nations of the EU would sign up to the Brexit deal so as to avoid a situation where there is a no deal and further uncertainty haunts the region. And in some ways, it is in EU’s interest that the British Prime Minister gets her plan approved by the British Parliament. A domestic political crisis in the UK is not in EU’s interest at this critical juncture. May also wants to demonstrate that she is fighting hard to secure British interests. So in a way, both May and the EU are sailing in the same boat.&nbsp;

As Britain struggles with its future relationship with the EU, its outreach to nations like India has been growing in order to seek out new avenues for economic relationships. British officials have been signalling that Brexit could augur well for trade ties between India and the EU as the two nations would find it easier to conclude a free trade pact without the involvement of the entire panoply of EU member states.&nbsp;

The economic relationship between the UK and India certainly remains a robust one. While the two nations can look forward to a potential FTA, the negotiations can only proceed once the UK has put its own house in order. India will also be looking for concessions on Indian skilled labour accessing UK markets.&nbsp;

The challenge for the UK at the moment is to sort out its own internal deliberations on the future of its trajectory with the EU. New Delhi will assess its own future with the UK in light of the choices London makes with Brussels.

(This article was originally published on DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-brexit-a-challenge-for-uk-an-opportunity-for-india-2688308">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) 
&nbsp;

As the Brexit negotiations head towards an endgame, there is turmoil all around. British politics is on knife’s edge with the future of Prime Minister Theresa May and in some ways the entire Conservative Party on the line.

As the Brexit negotiations head towards an endgame, there is turmoil all around. British politics is on knife’s edge with the future of Prime Minister Theresa May and in some ways the entire Conservative Party on the line. The Opposition, too, is struggling to put its own house in order and even the European Union is facing disunity within its ranks despite pretensions of a united front. Last week, an agreement on the withdrawal deal was reached in principle by May and the European Union (EU) which included a £39 billion “divorce bill” and the controversial customs “backstop” which keeps the UK temporarily in the EU customs union so as to prevent the return of manned customs posts at the Irish border. However, the joint political declaration on future relations which is to be confirmed on Sunday is only temporary. It will be the 21-month transition period after Britain leaves the EU on March 29, 2019, that would see the finalisation of the binding agreement. And this has led to challenges from all sides. May is struggling to finalise a Brexit deal to be agreed at this Sunday’s summit of European leaders even as she is under pressure from her own MPs not to cede any further ground in negotiations. For the time being, her threat is that she has managed to get the best possible deal from the EU and that it’s either this deal or no deal and, therefore, no Brexit that has secured her position. But there is a demand for more clarity on all sides of the British Parliament about the exact terms of UK’s future engagement with the EU if at all the Parliament is to support the deal. Despite a number of resignations from her cabinet and backroom manoeuvring to topple her from No 10 Downing Street, May looks stronger today than she looked last week and that’s a tribute to her own political skills and quite an accomplishment under the present circumstances. Yet her critics remain unrelenting. One of her strongest detractors, Jacob Rees-Mogg, has made a case that the time has come for May’s detractors to push for a confidence vote in May or face the spectacle of her leading the Tories into the next election. But he has accepted that he doesn’t have the required threshold of 48 letters needed to trigger a contest for Tory leadership. Opinion polls are also underscoring that support for May is growing among the British populace which is looking for a speedy resolution of this crisis. On the other side, the EU had to complete the text on future ties with the UK on Tuesday but several member states have raised objection, leading to a delay. Countries have highlighted several issues such as UK access to the EU single market, access to UK waters for EU boats as well as Gibraltar. Spain, which is worried about the future status of Gibraltar, has warned it will reject the draft Brexit withdrawal deal without a clarification of the text on future talks on the status of Gibraltar. France has raised concerns about fishing rights and nations as the Netherlands and Denmark, remain concerned about the potential competitive advantage to UK businesses over the European without the UK being tied to strict environmental regulations. Despite these concerns, Brussels would be hoping that when it would come to the crunch on Sunday, all 27 member nations of the EU would sign up to the Brexit deal so as to avoid a situation where there is a no deal and further uncertainty haunts the region. And in some ways, it is in EU’s interest that the British Prime Minister gets her plan approved by the British Parliament. A domestic political crisis in the UK is not in EU’s interest at this critical juncture. May also wants to demonstrate that she is fighting hard to secure British interests. So in a way, both May and the EU are sailing in the same boat. As Britain struggles with its future relationship with the EU, its outreach to nations like India has been growing in order to seek out new avenues for economic relationships. British officials have been signalling that Brexit could augur well for trade ties between India and the EU as the two nations would find it easier to conclude a free trade pact without the involvement of the entire panoply of EU member states. The economic relationship between the UK and India certainly remains a robust one. While the two nations can look forward to a potential FTA, the negotiations can only proceed once the UK has put its own house in order. India will also be looking for concessions on Indian skilled labour accessing UK markets. The challenge for the UK at the moment is to sort out its own internal deliberations on the future of its trajectory with the EU. New Delhi will assess its own future with the UK in light of the choices London makes with Brussels. (This article was originally published on DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Brexit: A challenge for UK, an opportunity for India

Spain's eleventh-hour objection over Gibraltar prevented the European Union on Friday from clearing the last hurdle before a leaders` summit on Sunday is due to endorse the Brexit deal with Britain.

A meeting in Brussels of national negotiators of the 27 EU states staying on together after Brexit ended with no agreement on Gibraltar after nearly three hours. "The work continues," one diplomatic source said.&nbsp;

Four months before Britain leaves the EU, the legal divorce treaty and an accompanying political declaration on future ties are due to be rubber-stamped by British Prime Minister Theresa May and the leaders of the 27 countries remaining in the EU.

May will arrive for more talks with the head of the EU`s executive, Jean-Claude Juncker, in Brussels late on Saturday, just hours before the summit is due to start.&nbsp;

Her spokeswoman said in London May would work with the Spanish government on Gibraltar, a disputed British overseas territory.

Spain has asked for changes to Britain`s legal withdrawal treaty and the accompanying political declaration to make clear any decisions about Gibraltar would only be taken with Madrid.

Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said on Thursday Spain would be against the Brexit package on Sunday if it is not changed.

"After my conversation with Theresa May, our positions remain far away. My government will always defend the interests of Spain. If there are no changes, we will veto Brexit," he said.

Under EU rules, the withdrawal treaty is adopted by a majority and not unanimity, so a single state cannot block it. However, EU leaders want unity on this most politically sensitive matter.

&nbsp;"We`ve worked very hard and have in fact reached agreement with Spanish colleagues in respect of Gibraltar`s role in the withdrawal process," Gibraltar`s Chief Minister Fabian Picardo said on Friday.

"If (the withdrawal agreement is) opened for one comma or one full-stop on Gibraltar, it`s going to be re-opened on any of the other issues."

OPPOSITION IN UK PARLIAMENT&nbsp;

The Brexit accord faces vehement opposition in the British parliament, which must vote in favour for it to take effect. Otherwise Britain risks leaving the bloc on March 29, 2019, without an agreement to mitigate economic disruption.

May`s former Brexit minister Dominic Raab on Friday expected the House of Commons to vote it down.

Determined not to allow any redrafting of either of the two texts and risk derailing the process, EU states have instead proposed addressing Spain`s concerns in a separate statement by the 27 leaders on Sunday that would not be part of negotiations with Britain.

It could refer back to the EU`s 2017 Brexit negotiating mandate, which said: "After the United Kingdom leaves the Union, no agreement between the EU and the United Kingdom may apply to the territory of Gibraltar without the agreement between the Kingdom of Spain and the United Kingdom."

Diplomatic sources said the 27 EU leaders` negotiators, or `sherpas`, added to the statement more clauses on climate and expatriate rights to compliment lines on fisheries and industry rules already contained in a draft seen by Reuters.

The EU`s 27 national negotiators are due to meet again on Saturday.

EU diplomats had hoped a text would be agreed by late Friday but fear Sanchez will want to discuss it at the top level on Sunday to show determination and score points with voters at home ahead of a December regional election.&nbsp;

Germany has said there can be no more technical negotiations at what is supposed to be a largely ceremonial summit and said Chancellor Angela Merkel could skip it if all the texts are not ready in advance.&nbsp;

The Brexit deal covers financial settlement, expatriates` rights and the Irish border, as well as setting a blueprint for future trade and security ties. It must also be backed by the European Parliament to come into force.

Spain's eleventh-hour objection over Gibraltar prevented the European Union on Friday from clearing the last hurdle before a leaders` summit on Sunday is due to endorse the Brexit deal with Britain.

Spain's eleventh-hour objection over Gibraltar prevented the European Union on Friday from clearing the last hurdle before a leaders` summit on Sunday is due to endorse the Brexit deal with Britain. A meeting in Brussels of national negotiators of the 27 EU states staying on together after Brexit ended with no agreement on Gibraltar after nearly three hours. "The work continues," one diplomatic source said. Four months before Britain leaves the EU, the legal divorce treaty and an accompanying political declaration on future ties are due to be rubber-stamped by British Prime Minister Theresa May and the leaders of the 27 countries remaining in the EU. May will arrive for more talks with the head of the EU`s executive, Jean-Claude Juncker, in Brussels late on Saturday, just hours before the summit is due to start. Her spokeswoman said in London May would work with the Spanish government on Gibraltar, a disputed British overseas territory. Spain has asked for changes to Britain`s legal withdrawal treaty and the accompanying political declaration to make clear any decisions about Gibraltar would only be taken with Madrid. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said on Thursday Spain would be against the Brexit package on Sunday if it is not changed. "After my conversation with Theresa May, our positions remain far away. My government will always defend the interests of Spain. If there are no changes, we will veto Brexit," he said. Under EU rules, the withdrawal treaty is adopted by a majority and not unanimity, so a single state cannot block it. However, EU leaders want unity on this most politically sensitive matter. "We`ve worked very hard and have in fact reached agreement with Spanish colleagues in respect of Gibraltar`s role in the withdrawal process," Gibraltar`s Chief Minister Fabian Picardo said on Friday. "If (the withdrawal agreement is) opened for one comma or one full-stop on Gibraltar, it`s going to be re-opened on any of the other issues." OPPOSITION IN UK PARLIAMENT The Brexit accord faces vehement opposition in the British parliament, which must vote in favour for it to take effect. Otherwise Britain risks leaving the bloc on March 29, 2019, without an agreement to mitigate economic disruption. May`s former Brexit minister Dominic Raab on Friday expected the House of Commons to vote it down. Determined not to allow any redrafting of either of the two texts and risk derailing the process, EU states have instead proposed addressing Spain`s concerns in a separate statement by the 27 leaders on Sunday that would not be part of negotiations with Britain. It could refer back to the EU`s 2017 Brexit negotiating mandate, which said: "After the United Kingdom leaves the Union, no agreement between the EU and the United Kingdom may apply to the territory of Gibraltar without the agreement between the Kingdom of Spain and the United Kingdom." Diplomatic sources said the 27 EU leaders` negotiators, or `sherpas`, added to the statement more clauses on climate and expatriate rights to compliment lines on fisheries and industry rules already contained in a draft seen by Reuters. The EU`s 27 national negotiators are due to meet again on Saturday. EU diplomats had hoped a text would be agreed by late Friday but fear Sanchez will want to discuss it at the top level on Sunday to show determination and score points with voters at home ahead of a December regional election. Germany has said there can be no more technical negotiations at what is supposed to be a largely ceremonial summit and said Chancellor Angela Merkel could skip it if all the texts are not ready in advance. The Brexit deal covers financial settlement, expatriates` rights and the Irish border, as well as setting a blueprint for future trade and security ties. It must also be backed by the European Parliament to come into force.

EU struggles to agree on Gibraltar before Brexit summit

From the shock Brexit vote to British and EU negotiators agreeing a draft divorce deal and an outline of post-Brexit ties, here are the milestones on Britain's rocky road out of the European Union.

Britons vote to leave

In a referendum Britons on June 23, 2016 choose to end their membership of the EU by 52 percent to 48 percent.

The result prompts the resignation the next day of Conservative prime minister David Cameron, who had called the referendum and led the campaign to remain in the EU.

In a race to replace him, Brexit campaigner Boris Johnson withdraws at the last minute and Theresa May, Cameron's interior minister for six years, becomes prime minister on July 11.

Clean break

On January 17, 2017 May gives a major speech setting out her Brexit strategy, saying Britain will also leave Europe's single market.

On March 13 Britain's parliament gives final approval to a bill empowering May to trigger Article 50 of the EU treaty which lays out the process for leaving the union.

Exit process triggered

With a letter to EU President Donald Tusk on March 29 formally announcing the intention to leave, the government sets in motion Article 50.

Its two-year timetable for withdrawal is set to wind up by March 29, 2019.

Lost majority

To capitalise on the perceived weakness of the opposition Labour party and strengthen her hand in Brexit negotiations, May calls a snap election for June 8.

Her gamble backfires as the Conservatives lose their parliamentary majority. They are forced to strike a deal with Northern Ireland's Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) to be able to govern.

The issue of British guarantees to keep an open border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland after Brexit becomes a key sticking point in negotiations.

First terms agreed

Britain and the EU reach a deal on some key terms of the divorce in early December 2017 after all-night negotiations. They include Britain's EU bill as part of the settlement.

EU leaders give the go-ahead for the next stage of Brexit talks, including on how Britain will continue to trade with the bloc after the split.

Brexit bill passed

A bill enacting the decision to leave the EU becomes law on June 26, 2018, following months of debate and after receiving the formal assent of Queen Elizabeth II.

The bill transfers decades of European law onto British statute books and enshrines "Brexit day" as March 29, 2019.

Top ministers quit

On July 6 May wins agreement from her warring cabinet to pursue "a UK-EU free trade area" that would retain a strong alignment with the EU after Brexit.

Two days later David Davis, the eurosceptic Brexit minister, quits as does his deputy. May is giving "too much away too easily", Davis says.

In a major blow, Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson also resigns on July 9, having criticised the Brexit blueprint in private, and becomes a leading critic of May's plans.

Draft divorce deal agreed

The European Union on November 13 publishes contingency plans for a "no-deal" Brexit.

But a few hours later, May's office says negotiating teams have reached a draft agreement for a Brexit. 
On November 14 the cabinet meets over the draft for more than five hours. May says afterwards it had made a "collective decision" to give its backing.

Rebellion

On November 15 four ministers, including Brexit secretary Dominic Raab, quit in protest at the exit deal, which May defends to parliament ahead of a December vote on it.

EU President Donald Tusk confirms the bloc will hold a special summit to seal the agreement on November 25.

Outline on future ties

British and EU negotiators strike a draft agreement on post-Brexit ties on November 22 to go with the divorce deal.

The text covers economic and security ties and states that free movement for British and EU nationals "will no longer apply" after Britain leaves the bloc.

May defends the two agreements as "the right deal for Britain" despite opposition from Brexit hardliners in her own Conservative Party who urge her to renegotiate.

 
&nbsp;

From the shock Brexit vote to British and EU negotiators agreeing a draft divorce deal and an outline of post-Brexit ties, here are the milestones on Britain's rocky road out of the European Union.

From the shock Brexit vote to British and EU negotiators agreeing a draft divorce deal and an outline of post-Brexit ties, here are the milestones on Britain's rocky road out of the European Union. Britons vote to leave In a referendum Britons on June 23, 2016 choose to end their membership of the EU by 52 percent to 48 percent. The result prompts the resignation the next day of Conservative prime minister David Cameron, who had called the referendum and led the campaign to remain in the EU. In a race to replace him, Brexit campaigner Boris Johnson withdraws at the last minute and Theresa May, Cameron's interior minister for six years, becomes prime minister on July 11. Clean break On January 17, 2017 May gives a major speech setting out her Brexit strategy, saying Britain will also leave Europe's single market. On March 13 Britain's parliament gives final approval to a bill empowering May to trigger Article 50 of the EU treaty which lays out the process for leaving the union. Exit process triggered With a letter to EU President Donald Tusk on March 29 formally announcing the intention to leave, the government sets in motion Article 50. Its two-year timetable for withdrawal is set to wind up by March 29, 2019. Lost majority To capitalise on the perceived weakness of the opposition Labour party and strengthen her hand in Brexit negotiations, May calls a snap election for June 8. Her gamble backfires as the Conservatives lose their parliamentary majority. They are forced to strike a deal with Northern Ireland's Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) to be able to govern. The issue of British guarantees to keep an open border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland after Brexit becomes a key sticking point in negotiations. First terms agreed Britain and the EU reach a deal on some key terms of the divorce in early December 2017 after all-night negotiations. They include Britain's EU bill as part of the settlement. EU leaders give the go-ahead for the next stage of Brexit talks, including on how Britain will continue to trade with the bloc after the split. Brexit bill passed A bill enacting the decision to leave the EU becomes law on June 26, 2018, following months of debate and after receiving the formal assent of Queen Elizabeth II. The bill transfers decades of European law onto British statute books and enshrines "Brexit day" as March 29, 2019. Top ministers quit On July 6 May wins agreement from her warring cabinet to pursue "a UK-EU free trade area" that would retain a strong alignment with the EU after Brexit. Two days later David Davis, the eurosceptic Brexit minister, quits as does his deputy. May is giving "too much away too easily", Davis says. In a major blow, Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson also resigns on July 9, having criticised the Brexit blueprint in private, and becomes a leading critic of May's plans. Draft divorce deal agreed The European Union on November 13 publishes contingency plans for a "no-deal" Brexit. But a few hours later, May's office says negotiating teams have reached a draft agreement for a Brexit. On November 14 the cabinet meets over the draft for more than five hours. May says afterwards it had made a "collective decision" to give its backing. Rebellion On November 15 four ministers, including Brexit secretary Dominic Raab, quit in protest at the exit deal, which May defends to parliament ahead of a December vote on it. EU President Donald Tusk confirms the bloc will hold a special summit to seal the agreement on November 25. Outline on future ties British and EU negotiators strike a draft agreement on post-Brexit ties on November 22 to go with the divorce deal. The text covers economic and security ties and states that free movement for British and EU nationals "will no longer apply" after Britain leaves the bloc. May defends the two agreements as "the right deal for Britain" despite opposition from Brexit hardliners in her own Conservative Party who urge her to renegotiate.

Brexit in dates: From Leave vote to draft deal

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