LONDON (REUTERS) - Britain will on Friday (May 24) publish legislation to implement its departure from the European Union, Prime Minister Theresa May told parliament on Wednesday (May 22).

The so-called Withdrawal Agreement Bill must be passed into law, requiring approval by a majority in parliament, before the deal Britain has agreed with the EU can take effect.

The legislation has been roundly criticised despite attempts by Mrs May to broaden its appeal and overcome divisions in parliament over the right way to leave the EU.

This story is developing.