British Prime Minister Theresa May Friday sought to delay Brexit until June 30 to avoid a crash-out in one week's time, but a key European Union leader suggested an even longer pause in the difficult divorce proceedings.
In a letter to European Council President Donald Tusk, May seeks an extension until June 30 and agreed to make contingency plans to take part in European Parliament elections in late May if necessary.
The elections pose a substantial stumbling block because Britain would be expected to take part, if it is still an EU member, so its people have representation in the European Parliament. Officials worry the legitimacy of European institutions could be jeopardized if the population of a member state is not involved in the process.
Massive traffic jams would also be expected on highways leading to major ferry ports as previously open borders were tightened with more identity and passport checks. The Europeans would prefer that Britain don't take part in the European Parliament elections if it is going to leave. April 12 is the last day for Britain to signal whether it will field candidates.
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