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Two-time Labour leadership hopeful Andy Burnham today signals his support for delaying Brexit if no-deal looks likely - and potentially backing a second referendum.

The former Cabinet Minister called for an extension to the Article 50 process, under which the UK is scheduled to leave the bloc on March 29, if quitting without a pact looms large.

In a speech in Westminster, the Greater Manchester Mayor will say: “The odds on a no-deal outcome are growing every day, so we need a contingency plan.

(Image: Getty Images Europe)

“As soon as it becomes clear that the MPs against a no-deal outcome cannot unite around a plan, I would urge all Greater Manchester MPs to support a call on the EU for an extension of Article 50 beyond the March deadline as the next way of stopping no-deal.

“This isn’t about frustrating Brexit - it is about getting Brexit right.

“If that fails and we are left on the cliff-edge of no-deal with no other options, then and only then would I endorse the call for a ‘people’s vote’ on the proposed no-deal departure and encourage our MPs to do the same.”

Shadow International Trade Secretary Barry Gardiner warned last month that a second referendum could trigger social unrest.

(Image: BBC) (Image: PA)

Labour is not currently pushing for a fresh poll but has repeatedly fail to rule one out, amid mounting calls from pro-EU campaigners for another vote.

Leavers say another referendum would undermine democracy after the 52% to 48% margin in June 2016, Britain’s biggest-ever democratic exercise.

(Image: AFP)

Mr Burnham will claim: “A price would undoubtedly be paid in terms of social cohesion but it would be a necessary one to protect the damage to people’s jobs, families and lives.”

He believes there is “a clear majority of people who are against crashing out”.

The ex-Culture Secretary goes on: “That is the position that we need to unite people around as it stands more chance of garnering widespread support than leaping straight to support for a people’s vote.

“So I believe we need to build in Greater Manchester a broad, cross-party campaign against no-deal with the aim of stopping it at all costs.”

His speech is set to be a rallying call for further devolution as he calls for Brexit to unleash more powers for the North.

The Mayor will outline plans for returning responsibilities to the UK’s nations and regions after Britain quits the EU.

He wants withdrawal to deliver more beefed-up powers for local politicians rather than Westminster seizing responsibilities currently wielded by Brussels.

"If the phrase ‘take back control’ is to mean anything, it must mean substantial devolution of power and resources out of Westminster to all of the English regions,” Mr Burnham will claim.