15 February 2019 | UK NEWS
The prospect of a no deal Brexit looks less likely after Parliament voted 303 to 258 to oppose leaving the EU with no deal last night. Brexit Secretary Stephen Barclay will now face the EU 27 to detail whether May can persuade Parliament to support a revised version of her Brexit deal. Earlier this week Mr Barclay suggested to EU Negotiator Michel Barnier the UK could accept legal guarantees on certain issues without having to renegotiate the entire agreement.
A report from the Local Government Authority suggests renters could have saved £1.8bn over the last 20 years if government built more social housing.
In economic news, the Royal Bank of Scotland has registered profits of £1.62bn for 2018. More than double the profit it made for 2017. RBS continues to warn of Brexit damage.
Manoeuvres:
– The House of Commons and the House of Lords return on Monday.
– UK Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson will speak at a security conference in Munich. Other speakers include Angela Merkel and Mike Pence.
What we’re reading on the internet:
LGA urges building for social rent – Local Government Chronicle
Improving employment rates helps tackle inequality – FT
January sales defy retail fears as discounts lure in shoppers – City AM
