Brexit delay could be possible if Theresa May's deal is voted down by MPs next week, says Digital Minister

A GOVERNMENT minister has broken ranks to say Brexit may need to be delayed if Theresa May’s deal is voted down next week.

With just 80 days to go until Brexit, serious fears are growing now that there won’t be enough time to pass all the laws necessary.

As Westminster comes close to panic, Theresa May will also decide this week whether to rip up MPs’ half term holiday next month and force them to sit through weekends.

Digital Minister Margot James told BBC2’s Politics Live: “This country cannot afford to leave the European Union with no deal, in my opinion.

“MPs must coalesce around this deal. It’s the best one we’re going to get.

“If that proves to be impossible, then we have very little time left but we might have to extend Article 50.”

Ms James was mildly slapped down by No10 last night.

But Mrs May’s officials also failed to completely rule out extending the Article 50 exit talks, after the PM herself also refused to in a TV interview on Sunday.

The PM’s official spokesman would only say: “I think the Prime Minister has been clear on a number of occasions that that is not something we are intending to do.

“The PM has already said that we are leaving the EU on March 29 and that we won’t be extending Article 50.”

Downing Street gave a very strong hint that the half-term break scheduled for next month is likely to be axed. Asked if cancelling the planned recess was being considered by the PM, her spokesman added: “I think what we’re committed to doing is ensuring the statute book is ready for exit day and we’ll do whatever is required to deliver that.

“In terms of precisely what’s required, that’s a judgement for the whips and the House.”

Seven major new bills still need to be passed to deliver on Brexit, it emerged yesterday.

They are the Trade Bill, Agriculture Bill, Fisheries Bill, Healthcare Bill, Immigration Bill, Financial services Bill and Withdrawal Agreement and Implementation Bill.

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