BRUSSELS, Jan. 15 (Xinhua) -- The European Union asked Britain to clarify its intentions on Brexit, shortly after British Prime Minister Theresa May's deal was rejected by a large margin by British parliament.
Jean-Claude Juncker, president of the European Commission, said in a statement that he takes note of the outcome, and that the rejected Withdrawal Agreement is a fair compromise and the best possible deal.
"It reduces the damage caused by Brexit for citizens and businesses across Europe. It is the only way to ensure an orderly withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the European Union," Juncker said.
"The risk of a disorderly withdrawal of the United Kingdom has increased with this evening's vote. While we do not want this to happen, the European Commission will continue its contingency work to help ensure the EU is fully prepared," he said.
"I urge the United Kingdom to clarify its intentions as soon as possible. Time is almost up." he said.
President of the European Council Donald Tusk tweeted, "If a deal is impossible, and no one wants no deal, then who will finally have the courage to say what the only positive solution is?"
The British parliament on Tuesday voted against the Brexit deal with 202 "ayes" and 432 "noes", further complicating the country's historic exit from the European Union.
