The request was accompanied by a second letter, signed by Mr Johnson, saying he believes a delay would be a mistake…

EU Council President Donald Tusk tweeted that he had received the extension request and would consult EU leaders “on how to react”.

Earlier, Mr Johnson rang European leaders, including Mr Tusk, to insist that the letter “is Parliament’s letter, not my letter”…

Shadow chancellor John McDonnell told Sky News Sophie Ridge the prime minister could “well be in contempt of Parliament or the courts” by sending a second letter to the EU that “contradicted” the first.