The United Kingdom (U.K.) and European Union (EU) agreed upon a breakthrough Brexit deal that appeared “fair” toward the people of Britain, as announced by Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Thursday, Oct. 17. 

“We’ve got a great new deal that takes back control,” Johnson posted on Twitter, “Now Parliament should get Brexit done on Saturday so we can move on to other priorities like the cost of living, the NHS, violent crime and our environment.”

Before Saturday’s vote, Johnson relied on his charm in a last-ditch effort to win support for his Brexit deal. As the Conservative Party leader, he understood that he lacked the numbers to obtain victory. His defeat would lead to another extension, as proven by former Prime Minister Theresa May’s attempts, which were voted down all three times. 

European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker shared her thoughts on Johnson’s plans, describing it as a “fair and balanced agreement” that avoided “any kind of prolongation.”

What was predicted to be a straight up-and-down vote for the British Parliament, however, led to a three month delay, the reason being an amendment created by Conservative Oliver Letwin had been approved earlier this year, requiring that Parliament pass all necessary legislation before reaching a final deal with the EU. The additional time was allowed for the proposed plan to be altered through debates and amendments. 

Johnson, however, was reluctant about the decision, stating that he would rather be “dead in a ditch” than request a Brexit extension. 

In a letter addressed to European Council President Donald Tusk, Johnson asked for an extension but added, “A further extension would damage the interests of the U.K. and our EU partners, and the relationship between us.”

Meanwhile, hundreds of thousands of anti-Brexit protesters poured into the streets of London, calling for a second Brexit referendum. Many held signs that read “Let Us Be Heard.” The protesters marched in favor of a “People’s Vote,” which would give the public a say in whether Britain should leave the EU. 

“If politicians voted on it three times and couldn’t make up their minds, it should go back to the people,” said Clare O’Neill, 22, an education worker who protested on Saturday. 

Though Parliament’s vote is uncertain, without an extension approved by EU leaders, the U.K. is scheduled to leave the EU after the Oct. 31 deadline. If a deal isn’t negotiated by then, it could be devastating for the people of the U.K.

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