Minister of State for Defence Frederick Curzon has claimed that the UK is “very keen” to support French President Emmanuel Macron’s plan for a European intervention force.

The European Intervention Initiative force would be separate from other EU initiatives, meaning the UK could take part if it wishes.

“We’re very keen to support President Macron in this initiative,” Curzon told AFP here.

“We look forward to sitting down with our French colleagues to work through the ideas that they have formulated for a more efficient and joined up security and defence system across Europe. We think it has a real part to play.”

Frederick Curzon, also known as the 7th Earl Howe, is Minister of State for Defence and Deputy Leader of the House of Lords.

“It certainly will help to achieve what we are looking for, which is a deep and special partnership with our European colleagues in defence and security” he added.

According to AFP, the European Union this week announced plans to spend nearly 20 billion euros on defence in its budget for 2021-2027, most of which will go on research and developing new military technologies for the union.