Britain to launch EU exit process

Britain formally launches the process for leaving the European Union (EU) on Wednesday, a historic step that has divided the country and thrown into question the future of the European project.

May has already signed the Brexit letter to be delivered to EU president Donald Tusk on Wednesday and the two leaders spoke by phone ahead of the momentous event.

After the historic triggering of divorce proceedings, Brussels and London face months of monumentally difficult negotiations over outstanding bills, immigration and future trade ties.

The EU is expected to issue a first response to Britain on Friday, followed by a summit of leaders on April 29 to adopt their own guidelines — meaning it could be weeks before formal talks start.