Boris Johnson's hopes of getting Commons backing for his Brexit deal have hit a major stumbling block after MPs voted for an amendment which could force him to seek another delay.
In a special Saturday sitting, the Commons voted by 322 to 306, majority 16, in favour of the amendment by the former Cabinet minister Sir Oliver Letwin withholding approval until legislation to implement the deal is in place.
Sir Oliver, one of the MPs to have the Tory whip withdrawn after rebelling on Brexit, said it was an "insurance policy" intended to ensure the UK cannot "crash out" of the EU on October 31 without a deal.
Under the terms of the so-called Benn Act, if he does not have agreement on a deal on Saturday, the Prime Minister is required to seek a further extension to the Article 50 withdrawal process until the end of January
It is expected that the whips will now order Conservative MPs home without voting on the the main motion to approve the deal.
Ministers have signalled that they will press ahead with plans to table the legislation next week with a view to securing Britain's departure by the end of the month.
