'An extension will have consequences' says EU as Downing Street admits 'crisis' over Brexit

There will be 'consequences' if Article 50 is prolonged, the EU has said as Theresa May prepares to ask for an extension. The comments from the European Union come just hours after Downing Street admitted the UK is 'in crisis' over Brexit. The EU's chief negotiator, Michel Barnier also said that any extension to Britain's membership had to be 'useful' and warned it would bring 'uncertainty'. Commenting on the length of any potential extension, Mr Barnier said a longer delay would only be granted if it is 'linked to something new, a new event, a new political process'. ITV News Political Editor Robert Peston assessed that Mr Barnier's comments imply a general election or referendum would be required in the UK before the EU commits to a longer extension.