Boris Johnson is expected to seek an extended suspension of Parliament ahead of the Queen's Speech on October 14 in a move which could hamper efforts by MPs to block a no-deal Brexit.
The Prime Minister's plan will be considered in a Privy Council meeting at the Queen's Balmoral estate, according to reports.
The House of Commons is currently expected to resume sitting after its summer break on September 3 and Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn and other opposition leaders have agreed to seek legislative changes to prevent a no-deal Brexit.
But, according to the BBC, the Prime Minister will seek to suspend Parliament from around September 11 until the Queen's Speech - a process known as prorogation.
Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: "So it seems that Boris Johnson may actually be about to shut down Parliament to force through a no-deal Brexit.
"Unless MPs come together to stop him next week, today will go down in history as a dark one indeed for UK democracy."
In response to the reports of a parliamentary suspension, Tory Party chairman James Cleverley said: "Or to put is another way: Government to hold a Queen's Speech, just as all new governments do."
Independent Group for Change MP Chris Leslie wrote on Twitter: "If true, this undemocratic manoeuvre to try and shut down Parliament must be fought every step of the way.
"How totally underhanded of Boris Johnson to make the Queen sign off on this plot it in a secret ceremony up in Balmoral. The House of Commons must assemble and veto this."
Deputy Labour leader Tom Watson tweeted: "We do not have a 'new government'. This action is an utterly scandalous affront to our democracy. We cannot let
this happen."
Labour MP and former Government minister Yvette Cooper tweeted: "Boris Johnson is trying to use the Queen to concentrate power in his own hands - this is a deeply dangerous and irresponsible way to govern."
Deputy Labour leader Tom Watson tweeted: "We do not have a 'new government'. This action is an utterly scandalous affront to our democracy. We cannot let
this happen."
Labour MP and former Government minister Yvette Cooper tweeted: "Boris Johnson is trying to use the Queen to concentrate power in his own hands - this is a deeply dangerous and irresponsible way to govern."
Hearing that the Queen could be asked to agree to prorogue parliament as early as today. She’s in Balmoral. Would be done by Order in Council. Only one source. Not confirmed. Watch this space
— Nick Robinson (@bbcnickrobinson) August 28, 2019
Parliament likely to meet therefore from next Monday until around the 11th of September - understand Downing St thinks they have some legal protection from court cases if they are suspending Parliament to come back with a Queen's Speech - there is going to be HUGE row
— Laura Kuenssberg (@bbclaurak) August 28, 2019
