MPs will debate the possibility of a general election this afternoon, with a decision potentially as early as 17:00. However, it looks as if the government may not be able to get the two-thirds majority required – but one may still be on the horizon. While Boris Johnson is calling for a 12th December election, the Liberal Democrats and SNP will introduce a bill for a 9th December election, which would require a simple majority to pass.
EU leaders are meeting again today to discuss the terms of the Brexit extension. French President Emmanuel Macron reportedly blocked the EU’s attempt to extend the deadline by three months, preferring a shorter November election.
We will see a number of economic releases this week, although they may well be buried under political noise. The latest house price index will come out on Tuesday, as will mortgage approvals and Bank of England consumer credit figures. UK manufacturing PMI is due on Friday.
