06 May 2024,   08:48
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UK parliament approves Brexit withdrawal deal

The UK parliament has passed Prime Minister Boris Johnson"s Brexit deal bill, authorizing Britain"s exit from the EU. The vote ends years of wrangling over the initial terms of Britain"s withdrawal.

The bill, which will pass to the House of Lords next week for further scrutiny, paves the way for Britain to leave the European Union on January 31.

Lawmakers last year voted down repeated efforts by Boris Johnson and his predecessor Theresa May to secure backing for their Brexit agreements. However, the comfortable 80-seat majority won by Johnson in December"s general election meant it was never in doubt that the bill would be passed this time.

The legislation addresses initial issues over the separation — such as EU citizens" rights and Britain"s financial settlement. It also sets out an 11-month transition period to agree a wider partnership with the remaining 27 nations. The deal must also be ratified by the European Parliament.

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