where the president of the european commission jean—claude juncker speaking. translation: thank you, president, ladies and gentlemen, president and office of counsel. what has happened in westminster these last few days strengthened my conviction that the best way is ratification of the withdrawal agreement as approved by the uk government and endorsed by this parliament, and also by the european council. ten days ago the european council. ten days ago the european council. ten days ago the european council followed the request of the extension of article 50 until the 22nd of may on the condition the house of commons approve the withdrawal deal before the 29th of march. unfortunately, that did not happen. making reference to the statement by the