Theresa May gets silent treatment from EU leaders on Brexit
The Prime Minister warns against Britain being sidelined by other members while it remains part of the bloc.
Friday 21 October 2016 13:03, UK
Theresa May was met by silence after she set out the UK's position on Brexit to EU leaders at a summit dinner in Brussels.
The cool reception at the European Council could be a sign of things to come after the Prime Minister was told Britain would not be given an easy time in withdrawing from the bloc.
Asked how the talks had gone with Mrs May, European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker gave a dismissive shrug of his shoulders.
French President Francois Hollande has also warned Britain would face "hard" negotiations if it sought a complete break with Brussels, while the European Parliament president Martin Schulz urged European leaders to "stand firm" in talks with the UK.
:: Half of Britons fear Theresa May has no Brexit plan - Sky poll
Mrs May used her debut EU summit to tell her counterparts directly that Britain would be leaving after suggestions in Europe the referendum result could be revisited.
She also warned EU leaders the UK must not be sidelined in discussions that affected all 28 members while it is remained part of the bloc.
It follows an "informal" summit held in Bratislava in September, the first without Britain for 43 years.
:: Sky Views: Theresa May needs 'smooth' Brexit
EU Council president Donald Tusk told Mrs May at the summit table this was "all a result of the UK (Brexit vote) and that the EU 27 will have to keep meeting".
And despite Mrs May's insistence there was no going back on Brexit, at the end of the summit dinner, Mr Tusk told reporters: "It's not our choice and, if you ask me, I would prefer 28 members not only for the next month, but also for the next years and decades.
:: Has Britain left the EU yet?
"After the decision in the UK we have to respect the decision of the referendum. If it is reversible or not, this is in the British hands.
"I would be the happiest one if it reversible but we now we have to start our formal works."