Crunch talks between Prime Minister Theresa May and the EU on her Brexit deal are likely to continue right up till last minute, says a leading politician.

It is understood parliament will be given the chance to vote on her Brexit deal by January 21 at the latest.

But Ashford MP Damian Green expects discussions between the Prime Minister and EU leaders to continue well into the new year.

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Theresa May survived a vote of no confidence in her leadership in a dramatic day in which she had to fend off a challenge by rebel MPs on Wednesday.

She is now holding meetings with EU leaders as she seeks additional assurances about the controversial Irish backstop element of her Brexit deal, which has proved unpopular among MPs of all political parties.

Mr Green says the Prime Minister still has his support despite staunch criticism of her deal and is "optimistic" about a positive outcome.

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