Anglican bishops appeal for change of tone in Brexit debate

The Church of England's bishops are appealing for national unity following a week of divisive discussions around Britain's efforts to leave the European Union, urging politicians and the public to adopt a more civilized tone in the debate.

The leaders said in a statement Saturday that it is time to bring generosity back to national life and to respect those with a differing point of view. The appeal comes amid heated discussions over Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit deal.

Parliament was supposed to vote on the deal this week, but May removed it from consideration in hopes of persuading EU officials to make changes.

But EU leaders meeting in Brussels showed little appetite to resolve May's Brexit impasse for her, saying the U.K. Parliament must make up its mind.