Brexit Delayed: British MPs Vote to Amend UK Govt's Motion, Direct Boris Johnson to Push October 31 Deadline

London, October 19: Dealting another setback on Prime Minister Boris Johnson, the UK Parliament on Saturday voted in favour of amending the government's approval motion on Brexit. A total of 322 lawmakers voted in favour of extending the October 31 deadline to leave the European Union, whereas, 306 MPs voted in favour of Johnson's proposed plan to leave the EU by the above date. 'Got Great New Deal With European Union': Boris Ahead of Key Vote.

The setback to Johnson exposed the friction within the Tory ranks. While the entire Labour legislative party voted en bloc in favour of amending the government's approval motion, the Conservatives were a divided House with at least a dozen lawmakers defying the party whip.

Leader of Opposition Jeremy Corbyn, while addressing the House of Commons, said Boris should respect the decision taken by the Parliament and ask the European Union to delay the October 31 deadline. The adjournment is necessary to deliberate and debate over the proposed Brexit Bill -- which is a "game-changer deal" according to the Prime Minister.

Statement Issued by EU:

The spokeswoman for Jean-Claude Juncker, the EU Commission President, said the European Union has taken cognizance of the UK House of Commons' decision. "It will be for the UK government to inform us about the next steps as soon as possible," the statement said.

The Brexit or the process to leave the European Union was initiated by the Britain in 2015. After a year of deliberations, the referendum was held in July 2016, which saw the country voting by a thin majority to leave the conglomerate. Since then, the country has seen the exit of two Prime Ministers and a snap elections which dented the Tory's strength.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 19, 2019 08:26 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).