Brexit: Process in deadlock as MPs seek consensus

The Brexit process remains in deadlock as MPs struggle to find a consensus on the next steps.

The Commons failed to find a majority for a way forward after voting for eight different options on Wednesday.

And while some senior Brexiteers have moved towards supporting Theresa May's deal, the MPs she relies on in the DUP have refused to alter their stance.

Commons Leader Andrea Leadsom told MPs there would be a further debate on a government Brexit motion on Friday.

But it is unclear yet whether this will end with a third "meaningful vote" on the PM's deal.

On Wednesday, Speaker John Bercow reiterated that he would not allow a third "meaningful vote" on "substantially the same" motion as MPs had already rejected by historic margins twice.

But Mrs Leadsom told the Commons: "The motion tabled will comply with the Speaker's ruling."

She added: "The only way we ensure we leave in good time on 22 May is by approving the withdrawal agreement by 23:00 GMT on 29 March."

Cabinet Office Minister and Mrs May's de-facto deputy David Lidington urged MPs to back the the deal "in the national interest", calling it the "responsible course" those who want an orderly exit.

The PM won some support for her plan by saying she would resign ahead of the next round of EU negotiations if her deal passes, and is continuing discussions with colleagues throughout the day.

But although the prime minister has won over the likes of former foreign secretary Boris Johnson, a number of hardcore Brexiteers are still refusing to vote for the deal.

Former Brexit secretary Dominic Raab said he still believed it is still possible to get concessions from the EU on the deal, but if the bloc does not move, there should be "sensible conversations" around no-deal.