Theresa May Could Extend Post-Brexit Transition Period

British Prime Minister Theresa May could extend the U.K.'s transition out of the European Union to allow more time for trade talks.

May told reporters Thursday she's considering a proposal that would "create an option to extend the implementation period for a matter of months." But she said she didn't think the extension would be necessary.

As Newsy previously reported, the problem is the border between Northern Ireland, which is part of the U.K., and the Republic of Ireland, which is in the EU. The two sides are trying to negotiate a "backstop" so that border can stay open even if negotiations drag on or fail to produce a deal. 

But the idea of an extension isn't sitting well with pro-Brexit politicians in the U.K., including Nigel Farage, who tweeted that an extension "may mean we never leave at all."

The U.K. plans to leave the EU in March, and the transition period is supposed to last until the end of 2020.

Additional reporting from Newsy affiliate CNN.