British PM May's government survives no-confidence vote

British Prime Minister Theresa May's government survived a no-confidence vote on Wednesday after parliament overwhelmingly shot down her deal for the nation to exit the European Union. With the 325 to 306 vote, May said in parliament that she will "continue to work to deliver on the solemn promise we made to the people of this country to deliver on the result of the (2016) referendum, and leave the European Union." [Getty] "The House has put its confidence in this government," the premier said, adding, "I stand ready to work with any member of this House to deliver on Brexit, and ensure that this House retains the confidence of the British people." The opposition Labour Party tabled a motion of no-confidence in May's government after the House of Commons on Tuesday rejected May's Brexit deal with the European Union by a record margin. Her deal had faced opposition even from her own Conservative Party primarily due to issues related to border controls between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, with some fearing the contingency arrangement would tie Britain to the European Union indefinitely. Britain is scheduled to leave the European Union at the end of March although many analysts now expect Britain will seek a delay due to the parliamentary deadlock. Alternatively, Britain could potentially leave the bloc without a deal, a move which is opposed by a majority in parliament. Critics of a "no deal" Brexit believe it would create trade frictions and lead to economic damage.

Jan 17, 2019 | KYODO NEWS