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His comments directly contradict Defence Secretary Michael Fallon's promise to stop the creation of an EU army for as long as Britain remained inside the union. The UK Government has argued against the creation of a European defence force, warning it would undermine the NATO military alliance. But the Foreign Secretary, speaking in London this morning, opened the door to closer ties on defence and security across the 28-member bloc, in a dramatic U-turn that will anger eurosceptics.

PA Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson delivers a speech at Chatham House, London

He said: "There is a conversation going on now about the EU's desire to build a common security and defence policy, new architecture for that. "If they want to do that fine...We are not there to block or to impede further steps towards EU integration if that is what they so desire." EU foreign policy chiefs backed by France and Germany have long-favoured a coordinated European defence force despite objections from the UK that it would lead to duplications with NATO.

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Just two months ago Sir Michael said the UK would "continue to oppose any idea of an EU army, or an EU army headquarters which would simply undermine Nato. "Nato must remain the cornerstone of our defence and the defence of Europe." However, Britain's impending exit from the EU and dogged backing from Brussels chiefs have spurred plans for a European force. Mr Johnson's remarks follow the European Parliament's backing for an EU plan to deepen coordination of member states' defence policies in order to rely less on the United States.

PA Mr Johnson insisted the UK must retain a leadership role in world affairs

REUTERS Belgian army Special Forces are seen during the Black Blade military exercise

REUTERS Belgian army Special Forces are seen during the Black Blade military exercise