GETTY*REUTERS Cameron seized the opportunity to gather support for Britain remaining within the EU

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The Prime Minister was accused of “taking Project Fear international” after he said he used the meeting between world leaders to gain their backing for the UK to stick with Brussels. Mr Cameron said: “Obviously being here is also an opportunity to talk to friendly nations about the European referendum issue.

“I had very good discussions yesterday with John Key, the Prime Minister of New Zealand, who made a very clear statement about New Zealand believing that Britain was better off in the EU, that it is good for New Zealand and good for Britain. “What I find is it's very hard to find a leader of a friendly nation that wishes Britain well that believes we would be better off outside a reformed EU.” Mr Cameron’s tactics in the Washington meeting – which was intended to cover nuclear security against terrorists – encouraged Mr Key to make a public declaration that Britain is “stronger” in the bloc.

REUTERS John Key came out in support of Britain remaining within the bloc

EPA The summit was intended for world leaders to discuss the nuclear threat imposed by terrorists

As he left the Nuclear Security Summit, he said: “It's up to the British people to decide, but we certainly think it's a stronger position for Britain to be in Europe. “As someone who's lived in the UK for a long period, I guess all I'd say is if we had the equivalent of Europe on our doorstep, New Zealand as a country would be looking to join that, we certainly wouldn't be looking to leave it.” Mr Cameron’s approach sparked outrage within the Tory party, with MP Liam Fox blasting the tactic.

It seems Project Fear has gone international Liam Fox

He said: “It seems Project Fear has gone international. When will it dawn on the Remain campaign that the British people don't like being lectured by foreign leaders? “They would be better off making the positive case for the EU, which they seem terrified of doing.” Meanwhile supporters of the ‘Out’ campaign denounced Mr Key’s comments.

EU referendum Sat, February 20, 2016 With an in/out referendum on EU membership set for June 23 this year, we're taking an overview look of David Cameron's two-day visit at EU summit at EU headquarters in Brussels and his return to Downing Street to meet with his cabinet. Play slideshow AFP/Getty Images 1 of 21 British Prime Minister David Cameron speaks at Downing Street