Three options – a common market, a customs union and a second referendum – were all narrowly rejected, prompting renewed talk of a swift general election. After Conservative MPs failed to support any option in sufficient numbers, there were immediate recriminations in the chamber of the House of Commons .

With just 10 days left until Britain is due to leave the EU without a deal unless the government secures a fresh delay from Brussels, the Brexit Secretary, Steve Barclay, said the cabinet would have to decide the way forward. UK Finance Minister Philip Hammond is reportedly set to tell ministers a second referendum may be necessary to break the Brexit deadlock.

The Chancellor will explain in a lengthy meeting of Theresa May's cabinet that the party either needs to compromise or organize a new poll, according to the Times.

He'll reportedly tell Mrs May's top team that neither the country nor the Conservative party can afford a General Election. Prime Minister May remains opposed to a second referendum "in all circumstances."