Britain will veto measures to build an EU army for as long as it remains a member of the union, the defence secretary has warned.

Sir Michael Fallon’s comments came as it emerged that France and Germany had drawn up a timetable to create a “common military force” that would rival Nato in army capability.

According to a document discussed by EU leaders at a summit in Bratislava yesterday, the European Commission will put forward proposals in December for the common military force, with the aim of agreement by June next year.

Britain was not invited to the summit. Sir Michael said, however, that he was concerned about any move to create a force that would duplicate the military and defence role played by Nato.