The government has tabled a motion to bring forward MPs' summer break amid growing pressure on Theresa May, The Independent understands.
Ministers want Parliament to rise on Thursday rather than next Tuesday as originally scheduled, but the change will have to be approved by MPs.
It comes amid mounting pressure on Theresa May over her Brexit strategy, with Tory Brexiteers having threatened to trigger a vote of no confidence in her.
A motion tabled in the name of Andrea Leadsom, the leader of the Commons, proposed Parliament adjourn until 4 September.
The confirmation is likely to fuel suggestions the prime minister is bringing forward the six-week summer break in an attempt to prevent a challenge against her.
Eurosceptic Tories furious at her Brexit strategy have threatened to trigger a contest and are reported to be close to the 48 signatories needed for one to be held.
However, bringing forward the recess would likely ensure there is not enough time a vote to be called and organised before MPs depart Westminster for their constituencies and their summer holidays.
The prime minister also appeared to have bought herself some breathing space after agreeing to support four amendments tabled by anti-EU MPs to a key Brexit bill.
Responding to reports that ministers were considering bringing forward the summer break, Sir Vince Cable, leader of the Liberal Democrats, told The Independent: “With the Tories languishing in a state of civil war, Theresa May is running scared of a leadership challenge with plans for an early recess."
