CHAoS, oR KeeP CAlM And CARRY on: WHAt HAPPenS noW in UK?

LONDON — Theresa May has delayed a vote in parliament to approve her Brexit deal in search of extra assurances from the EU. Britain cannot ratify any withdrawal deal without parliament’s consent. So what happens now?

BACK to PARliAMent

The government has said it intends to hold a vote before Jan 21. ReSign

May could resign as leader of the Conservative Party, triggering an internal contest to replace her without a general election. oUSted

If 48 out of 315 Conservative lawmakers want May to go, the party holds a leadership ballot. If she loses, there is an internal contest to replace her without an election. Vote oF no ConFidenCe Labour Party could call a vote of no confidence in the government, seeking to take control of the country without holding an election. BACK to tHe BAllot

If May’s government loses a confidence vote and Labour is unable to form a new government, an election is called.

SeCond ReFeRendUM

The route to a second referendum on Brexit is unclear but would almost certainly require the backing of the government of the day. A new referendum can be called only if it is approved by parliament. delAY oR CAnCel BReXit

The government could seek to extend the negotiating period with the EU to give it time to try to reach a better deal, hold a general election, or conduct a second referendum. —