The government has been defeated in its efforts to stop MPs from a move to block a no-deal Brexit.

Opposition MPs and a number of "rebel" Conservatives joined forces to push through a debate tomorrow in which they will try to pass a law preventing the UK from leaving the EU without a formal deal.

A total of 328 MPs voted in favour of parliament taking control of tomorrow's business, with against 301 against - a majority of 27.

Tunbridge Wells MP Greg Clark was among the Tory "rebels" and now faces being expelled from the party as a result.

Speaking to the house straight after the vote, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the government will table a motion to hold a general election.

He earlier threatened to sack any Conservative MPs who voted against the government.

Today's key developments were:

• Tunbridge Wells MP Greg Clark faces a possible attempt to deselect him;
• Faversham and Mid Kent MP Helen Whately said rebel Conservatives were breaching manifesto pledges;
• The government lost its majority after Philip Lee defected to the Lib Dems;
• Labour said it would not automatically back a general election
• Sittingbourne and Sheppey MP hits out at Tory rebels
• The government announced a further £20 million for Operation Brock

Earlier this evening the speaker John Bercow accepted a formal application from MPs for an emergency debate on the government's controversial plans to prorogue parliament for five weeks.

In doing so he opened the door to the possibility of legislation stopping any option involving a no deal Brexit.

Boris Johnson sought to dissuade MPs from pursuing their aim saying that it would hamper his efforts to secure a good deal in Brussels.

There is now speculation a general election could take place as early as next month.

The Prime Minister's position was further undermined by the news that he had lost his majority after MP Philip Lee had defected.

Kent MPs to vote on No Deal Brexit process

Ahead of the debate, Sittingbourne and Sheppey MP Gordon Henderson criticised rebel MPs, saying: "We are sorry to lose Philip but he is just one of a few MPs to join the Lib Dems and good luck to them.

"There is something ironic that protestors are saying this is a coup - it is the remainers who are trying to stage a coup.

“Democracy is based on people electing a government And then the government pursuing laws, policies and legislation.

"It is not for Parliament to override legislation By taking control of parliamentary business."

• Follow how the day's events unfolded during our live blog

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