Then lawmakers rejected Mr. Johnson’s request for a snap election — at least until the no-deal measure becomes law and there is no threat of a clear majority reversing this week’s actions . It was the third rebuke in two days of Mr. Johnson.

Keep in mind: An eventual election, which will likely happen in the coming weeks or months, may raise more questions than it solves . An inconclusive result could reinforce fears that the problem defies a democratic solution.

Analysis: This week ushered in a new season of political mayhem in Britain, one in which the voters are now as likely as their feuding leaders to resolve the questions over how and when Britain should leave the European Union.

In the room: Members of the unelected House of Lords brought food, drinks and bedding to Westminster in preparation for a session that could run not just through Wednesday night but through Thursday, too.