Government defeated in key Brexit vote - here's how the day unfolded

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The Government has been defeated by Conservative rebels and Labour MPs in a critical vote on its key piece of Brexit legislation.

MPs amended the EU Withdrawal Bill against Theresa May's will, so guaranteeing Parliament a "meaningful" vote on any Brexit deal she agrees with Brussels.

Ms May's whips applied heavy pressure on Conservative rebels who remained defiant in the Commons throughout the day and in the end the Government was defeated by 309 votes to 305, a margin of just four votes.

Here is how the day unfolded.

Key Points

• Government suffers defeat by 309 votes to 305, meaning any Brexit deal will have to be approved by Parliament
• Rebel Stephen Hammond sacked as Vice Chair of party 
• Result 'reveals Commons majority for soft Brexit' 
• Why is tonight's Brexit vote so important?

[13 December 2017 20:41 · Kristin Hugo]

The Independent's Chief Political Commentator John Rentoul says the defeat reveals the majority in the House of Commons for Soft Brexit.

[13 December 2017 20:54 · Kristin Hugo]

Fresh from defeat, Theresa May is already on stage at an awards ceremony honouring the bravery of the Armed Forces, which is nothing if not brave of her.

[13 December 2017 20:59 · Kristin Hugo]

This may or may not be connected to the government defeat.

[13 December 2017 21:22 · Kristin Hugo]

A very significant defeat from the government, then, with major ramifications for the way in which the Brexit process will unfold.

The most dramatic night in the commons since on Theresa May's watch, that is in no doubt. And there will be more to come.

That's all from me.

[13 December 2017 23:11 · Joe Watts]

Theresa May head's to EU summit after suffering embarrassing defeat at hands of her own MPs independent.co.uk/news/uk/politi…