UK, European Union agree to extend Brexit until 31st October

London, April 11: The UK and the European Union have agreed to extend Brexit until October 31. The decision was taken at an emergency meeting in Brussels yesterday where the EU leaders agreed to offer British Prime Minister Theresa May a six-month extension.

 

Accepting the offer, PM May said the UK would still aim to leave the EU as soon as possible. The extension is flexible, meaning Britain can leave once its withdrawal deal is ratified in the Parliament. However, if it stays beyond 22nd May, the country will likely be required to participate in EU elections.

May had sought a shorter delay to June 30 in order to avoid the UK crashing out without a deal later this week. The UK was meant to leave the EU on March 29, this was later extended to April 12.

The new extension, which falls on Halloween, means that Britain will more than likely have to hold elections for the European Parliament on May 23, nearly three years after the British people voted to leave the EU. May has always said she never wanted the UK to take part in those elections.

The fright night deadline, a day before the new European Commission is due to take office, was the product of grueling debate.