British Prime Minister Theresa May announced on Monday that she is delaying a crucial Parliament vote planned for Tuesday on her controversial Brexit deal, amid continuing divisions over aspects of the Withdrawal Agreement struck with the European Union (EU).
Addressing the House of Commons, she admitted that the deal looks set to be rejected by a "significant margin" due to ongoing concerns over the so-called "backstop", which many fear would keep the UK within the EU Customs Union even after Brexit.
May told MPs she would be speaking to EU leaders ahead of a summit later this week about the "clear concerns" expressed by lawmakers.
"It is the right deal for Britain. I am determined to do all I can to secure the reassurances this House requires, to get this deal over the line and deliver for the British people," she said.
"Many of the most controversial aspects of this deal including the backstop are simply inescapable facts of having a negotiated Brexit. Those members who continue to disagree need to shoulder the responsibility of advocating an alternative solution that can be delivered," she said.
Asked by Liberal Democrat leader Sir Vince Cable if EU leaders had indicated they were ready to ditch the backstop, she said: "A number of European leaders I've spoken to have indicated that they are open to discussions to find a way to provide reassurance to members of this House on that point."