UK Court: Goverment Can’t Trigger EU Exit Without Parliament Approval

Brexit. File photo dated 17/2/2016 of EU and UK flags, as a judge is to rule on the UK's first court challenge to Brexit later. Issue date: Thursday October 27, 2016. A case at Belfast High Court opposing Prime Minis... Brexit. File photo dated 17/2/2016 of EU and UK flags, as a judge is to rule on the UK's first court challenge to Brexit later. Issue date: Thursday October 27, 2016. A case at Belfast High Court opposing Prime Minister Theresa May's ability to trigger Brexit negotiations by next March was taken by a cross-community group of politicians and human rights campaigners. See PA story ULSTER Brexit. Photo credit should read: Stefan Rousseau/PA Wire URN:29030095 MORE LESS
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LONDON (AP) — In a major blow for Britain’s government, the High Court says the prime minister can’t trigger the U.K.’s exit from the European Union without approval from Parliament.

The government is likely to appeal Thursday’s ruling to the Supreme Court.

Plans for Brexit are being challenged in a case with major constitutional implications, hinging on the balance of power between Parliament and the government.

Prime Minister Theresa May has said she will launch exit negotiations with the EU by March 31. She is relying on a power called the royal prerogative that lets the government withdraw from international treaties.

Claimants argue that leaving he EU will remove rights, including free movement within the bloc, and say that cannot be done without Parliament’s approval.

Copyright 2016 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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