While Theresa May has negotiated the latest hurdle in her path towards a Brexit deal, it is clear significant obstacles remain in her way with ultimate success by no means certain.
A political declaration on post-Brexit relations was agreed in principle yesterday with a special summit due to take place in Brussels at the weekend at which EU leaders are expected to approve both the future framework and a separate withdrawal agreement setting out the term's of the UK's departure.
Mrs May declared that final agreement on Brexit is 'within our grasp', however she faced considerable opposition in the House of Commons from both Remain and Leave supporters.
Critics appeared to be better organised yesterday than last week, when Brexiteers allowed speculation to run wild over a potential change of leader.
As it happened, the open revolt led by Jacob Rees-Mogg sputtered and died after the anticipated number of no confidence letters failed to materialise.
This was an embarrassing setback for the MP and others determined to derail the prime minister.
The fact that she kept her head while others lost the run of themselves has strengthened her standing.
But she still faces an enormous challenge in getting the draft deal through the Commons, particularly now that her erstwhile friends in the DUP have turned against her.
The party remains stridently opposed to the proposed deal despite the economic advantages it offers Northern Ireland, something that has not been lost on business and farming leaders.
Mrs May met a number of representatives from Northern Ireland business organisations and individual companies yesterday evening, and there is no doubt the support from this sector is bolstering the prime minister's position.
However, it has to be recognised there is still a long way to go on this journey.
Even if the deal is passed by MPs, it has to be ratified by the European Parliament and any transition period could last until the end of 2022.
If Westminster rejects the deal, then we really are into difficult territory.
