Call to back Rishi Sunak on NI protocol deal amid fears ministers may quit

Senior Brexiter Maria Caulfield says PM must be given time and space' to conclude talks with EU

A senior Brexiter minister has urged colleagues to give Rishi Sunak time and space" to finish negotiations with the EU over the Northern Ireland protocol, as warnings grew of potential ministerial resignations.

Sunak has been told he is facing the possibility ministers may quit if his deal does not significantly rewrite the protocol or remove any powers for the European court of justice.