 "PM Theresa May backs down over Brexit votes in Parliament: Official")
UK Prime Minister Theresa May has backed down in a key Brexit battle with Parliament, ditching moves to stop lawmakers trying to re-write her plans, according to an official.
The government had intended to try to prevent the House of Commons from changing the terms of May’s agreement with the European Union (EU) before politicians finally vote on it.
But according to one official, speaking on condition of anonymity, May’s team have now dropped this tactic in the face of protests from politicians.
That means lawmakers will be free to vote on a series of potential changes to May’s motion, which could include calls for another referendum, or for a different deal with the EU. It’s a decision with potentially huge implications for the future direction of Brexit.
The fact that May is backtracking already ahead December 11 vote suggests she knows she’s losing the battle with rebels in her own Conservative Party who want to tear up the agreement she’s reached with the EU.
Government’s aim
The plans were disclosed by a UK official who asked not to be identified, because the plans are private.
Euro hits 2-week lows on no-deal fears
Sterling traded near a two-week low on Wednesday as investors prepared for warnings from the government and the central bank on how much damage a no-deal Brexit would do to the struggling British economy.
Barely four months before Britain is due to leave the EU, Prime Minister Theresa May has failed to get much support from parliament for the agreement sealed with EU leaders on Sunday.
Sterling traded near a two-week low on Wednesday as investors prepared for warnings from the government and the central bank on how much damage a no-deal Brexit would do to the struggling British economy.
Barely four months before Britain is due to leave the EU, Prime Minister Theresa May has failed to get much support from parliament for the agreement sealed with EU leaders on Sunday.
Govt, BoE to spell out risks for economy
The British government and the Bank of England are set to step up their warnings on Wednesday of a big hit to the economy from a no-deal Brexit, potentially helping PM Theresa May tackle deep Opposition to her plan.
BoE Governor Mark Carney and finance minister Philip Hammond have both previously stressed the importance of a transition period, as included in May's plan, to ease Britain out of its four-decade membership of the EU.
BoE Governor Mark Carney and finance minister Philip Hammond have both previously stressed the importance of a transition period, as included in May's plan, to ease Britain out of its four-decade membership of the EU.
One subscription. Two world-class reads.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →*Subscribe to Business Standard digital and get complimentary access to The New York Times
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
SAVE 25%
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
SAVE 46%
*Complimentary New York Times access for the 2nd year will be given after 12 months
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Subscribe
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors
Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share
Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor
Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements
Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
SAVE 25%