Ministers insist the UK will leave the EU by 31 October, despite a
letter sent to Brussels asking for a delay.
Boris Johnson sent the letter – unsigned – after a major setback in
the Commons to his Brexit strategy.
But the request was accompanied by a second letter, signed by the PM,
saying he believed a delay would be a mistake.
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said the PM had “proved the doubters
wrong” by getting a new deal and he was confident Brexit would still
happen on Halloween.
His colleague, Michael Gove, told Sky News’ Sophy Ridge the government
had “the means and ability” to leave on 31 October.
EU Council President Donald Tusk has acknowledged receipt of the UK’s
extension request and said he would consult EU leaders “on how to
react”.
Johnson has spoken to fellow leaders and Mr Tusk, telling them the
letter “is Parliament’s letter, not my letter”.
