The votes represented a rare victory for Theresa May. A few days ago it looked as if she was losing control of the process, with Brexiteers seemingly implacably opposed to her deal while MPs in favour of a softer Brexit moved to give parliament the power to extend Article 50 and dictate the terms of the debate. But last night Mrs May was able to unite her party behind a pledge to go back and negotiate the Irish backstop while the two main rebel amendments were defeated. No ministers resigned and, for now at least, she is in control.



What happens next?

The prime minister will go to Brussels and demand changes to the withdrawal agreement. This will probably involve appeals to EU leaders and