
Boris Johnson failed to fend off an amendment tabled by former Cabinet minister Sir Oliver Letwin, which prevents his new package being put to a formal vote this afternoon. Mr Johnson now faces being forced to ask the EU for a Brexit extension tonight - although his deal is not be dead and he is expected to hold a new vote on Tuesday. There is still a slim chance that he can win approval for his deal and take Britain out of the EU before October 31. Government whips had admitted they were not hopeful of defeating the Letwin amendment - which he insists is only intended to stave off the threat of No Deal. 'Lots of people do seem to have been brought in by his arguments sadly,' one told told MailOnline. Mr Johnson held last-ditch meetings with the DUP, who have accused him of betrayal for striking a deal that undermines the union, as he pleaded with them to come to the rescue. Sources said the overtures had not gone down well. 'They are not in a positive place,' they said ruefully. Kicking off the 'Super Saturday' showdown in the House of Commons earlier, Mr Johnson complained that there might not be a 'meaningful' decision for days longer. He said it was 'urgent' for the country to get past the standoff and 'unite', saying his deal can 'heal the rift in British politics'. 'Now is the time for this great House of Commons to come together and bring the country together today,' he insisted.