Estonian PM says possibility of achieving Brexit deal remains

TALLINN - The result of the no-confidence vote against British Prime Minister Theresa May in the House of Commons on Wednesday indicates that there is still a possibility of achieving a Brexit deal, Estonian Prime Minister Juri Ratas said.

"We are now waiting for proposals from the United Kingdom regarding moving forward with their withdrawal from the European Union. The next steps are for Prime Minister May to decide. I commend her for managing in the difficult situation so far and believe that it is still possible to find a solution satisfactory to all parties to the proceedings," Juri Ratas said on Wednesday.

"The preference of Estonia and other European Union member states definitely is that the withdrawal be based on a negotiated agreement. At the same time, we will continue preparations under the leadership of the European Commission in case the exit should take place without a deal. Our interest is to protect our citizens and it is important that the transition be as smooth as possible. The Cabinet will discuss preparations for a no-deal withdrawal scenario on Thursday," the prime minister said.

British Prime Minister Theresa May saw off a bid to remove her government from power by 325 to 306 votes, the day after her plan for leaving the EU was rejected.