Theresa May will run-down the clock towards Brexit for another week after opting to take the full amount of time she can before allowing a vote on her next steps.
Ministers announced on Thursday that the vote – at which point MPs will also be able to make their suggestions for the way forward – will not take place until 29 January.
Many MPs had expected it early next week so as to allow more time for the government to act upon the results.
It comes amid fears that Ms May will delay any action until Brexit day comes closer to increase pressure on MPs to back her deal or face a no-deal Brexit.
Commons leader Andrea Leadsom told MPs they will debate the government’s proposed Brexit next steps on January 29.
She said: “A statement and a motion on the Government’s next steps under section 13 of the EU Withdrawal Act will be tabled on Monday 21 January 21.
“A full day’s debate on the motion will take place on Tuesday 29 January, subject to the agreement of the House.”
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