Brexit could be delayed past the present deadline if the remaining 27 member states unanimously agreed to an extension. However, this would be likely only if a significantly softer Brexit, perhaps via second referendum, were on the table. Under the terms of the EU Withdrawal Act passed in June, the UK will leave the bloc at 11pm on March 29 — two years after the formal Article 50 notice of departure was issued. There is provision under Article 50 for Brexit to be delayed, however, if “the European Council, in agreement with the member state concerned, unanimously decides to extend this period”. This requirement could prove to be an obstacle, as different countries could insist on concessions in exchange for their agreement.

Source: The Times December 14, 2018 01:07 UTC