European Council president Donald Tusk said there was “a lot of space” in hell when asked about comments on those who promoted Brexit without a plan.

He was speaking alongside European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker after plans to push back Britain’s departure from the European Union were approved.

Mr Tusk was asked about comments he made last month in which he said he had been “wondering what the special place in hell looks like for those who promoted Brexit without even a sketch of a plan with how to carry it (out) safely”.

He was quizzed about whether this “special place” should be extended to MPs who vote against the Withdrawal Agreement next week.

“According to our pope, hell is still empty, it means there is a lot of space,” he replied.

Mr Juncker then added “Don’t go to hell!” as the press conference drew to a close.