About to get on a plane back but just on Juncker’s words on extension. EU source says: “It’s not in his gift to rule it out, he is just defending the deal and saying one shouldn't be needed...I am 100% certain EU27 would permit an extension if deal falls on Saturday.”
For an election/referendum. “Juncker/commission is selling the deal, of course, that’s their job.”
Have been pointed to his exact formulation of words: "This deal means there is no need for any kind of prolongation.”
Which isn’t quite the same thing as ruling out extension. It’s just saying that with a deal, there shouldn’t be a need for one.
Which isn’t quite the same thing as ruling out extension. It’s just saying that with a deal, there shouldn’t be a need for one.
Clearly that’s not to say this isn’t helpful for Number 10, it is. Shows Commission wants this done, no mean feat they’re working with Downing St given relations were previously so cold. But highly highly doubtful that if deal goes down it means no extension.
Further to this, EU Council conclusions do not rule out further extension. Doesn’t mention the issue one way or the other. 
And likewise, Donald Tusk has made clear he would put request for extension to EU27.
In no way is it remotely accurate to suggest that an extension has been vetoed. For the EU, it just isn’t in front of them right now. They’ve just agreed a deal. It would be odd if they were to instantly dismiss it and invite the Commons to vote it down.
