Lawmakers defeat Brexit deal 432-202

BRITAIN’S parliament on Tuesday (15) voted against prime minister Theresa May's Brexit deal by a massive margin, triggering a no confidence vote that could bring down her government.

The Commons voted 432 to 202 against the plan for taking Britain out of the European Union after nearly five decades, one of the biggest defeats ever suffered by a British prime minister.

The EU warned that the vote, which plunges Britain into uncharted waters, boosts the risk of a "no deal" Brexit.

Moments after the outcome, opposition Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn submitted a motion of no-confidence in May's government.

The vote is set for Wednesday (16).

Speaking moments before the MPs cast their ballots, May said MPs had a "duty to deliver" on the results of a 2016 referendum that started the divorce.

"I believe we have a duty to deliver on the democratic decision of the British people," May said, warning MPs that the EU would not offer any "alternative deal".

"A vote against this deal is a vote for uncertainty, division, and the very real threat of a no deal," she argued to loud jeers from the packed chamber.

"The responsibility of each and every one of us at this moment is profound, for this is a historic decision that will set the future of our country for generations."

Donald Tusk, the chairman of EU leaders, said on Tuesday that the only positive solution after British MPs rejected the agreement on withdrawal from the European Union is for Britain to stay in the EU.

"If a deal is impossible, and no one wants no deal, then who will finally have the courage to say what the only positive solution is?" Tusk tweeted after the vote.

Most lawmakers opposed Brexit, as have some leading members of May's government, creating an inherent contradiction that has torn apart the country.

And with just over two months to go until the scheduled March 29 departure, Britain still cannot decide what to do.

May must now decide whether she tries to hold another vote, gets kicked out of office, delays Brexit - or if Brexit even happens at all.

The government must set out what happens next by Monday, if - as is expected - it survives the no-confidence vote.

Speculation is growing on both sides of the Channel that May could ask to delay Brexit.

But a diplomatic source said any extension would not be possible beyond June 30, when the new European Parliament will be formed.

(Agencies)