UK Prime Minister Theresa May told MPs that she has “faithfully and firmly” reflected the Commons’ concerns about the Irish border backstop to EU. And she described some of the exchanges with EU leaders as being “robust”. She added that “but I make no apology for standing up for the interests of this house and for the whole of the United Kingdom.
Nevertheless, May also repeated what the EU has said. That is, EU hoped that the backstop would not be triggered. And even if the backstop was used, it should be temporary. May also mentioned that French President Emmanuel Macron said no one is trying to lock up the UK to the backstop. Though, May also said further discussions will take place with the EU.
On the timing of the vote, May said debate on the Brexit deal with resume in the week beginning Monday January 7. Vote will be held in the following week, that is, the week beginning January 14.
