Bruised UK leader returns to Brussels for Brexit help

British Prime Minister Theresa May

Britain's weakened Prime Minister Theresa May headed for Brussels to lobby European leaders for help after she survived a parliamentary mutiny that highlighted the deadlock over Brexit.

Ms May won the backing of 200 Conservative Party MPs versus 117 against, in a secret ballot that deepened divisions just weeks before Parliament needs to approve a deal to prevent a disorderly exit from the EU.

In Britain's biggest decision for decades, Brexit has split the nation and will shape the future of its $2.8 trillion economy, including London's status as a global financial hub.

However, European leaders look unlikely to offer immediate support, with a draft statement saying they were merely "ready to examine" whether further assurance can be given.

The six-point EU document said any assurances would not "change or contradict" the legally-binding withdrawal agreement struck last month after two years of negotiations.

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