The Prime Minister has defended engagement with Saudi Arabia ahead of a visit to discuss trade and security, saying that she could be an example for the role of women in a society.

Theresa May arrives in the Kingdom from Jordan later today and told reporters travelling with her: "I think it's important for me as a woman leader, and for me as the representative of the United Kingdom, to maintain the relationships that are important to us for our security, for trade and the future."

She said the monarchy was "already changing" under its "Vision 2030" programme.

"But I hope also people that see me as a woman leader will see what women can achieve and how women can be in significant positions," she said.

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Image: Theresa May talking to King Abdullah II of Jordan during her trip

The Prime Minister's visit was strongly criticised by Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn on account of the nation's human rights record and its military actions in Yemen.

He said: "Numerous human rights organisations, including the UNHRC and Amnesty International, have documented the dictatorial Saudi monarchy's shocking human rights record.

"The Saudi-led coalition bombing in Yemen, backed by the British government, has left thousands dead, 21 million people in need of humanitarian assistance and three million refugees uprooted from their homes."

Image: Jeremy Corbyn has criticised the visit due to the nation's poor human rights record

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The opposition leader said that Britain should halt arms sales to Yemen and back an independent investigation into war crimes, and that unless she challenges Saudi leaders over these issues "it will be clear she is ready to sacrifice human rights and security on the altar of the arms trade".

Asked whether post-Brexit Britain needs to sell its soul for trade deals, Mrs May replied: "No, the relationships we have with Jordan and Saudi Arabia are long term and important for us in terms of security, defence and yes, in terms of trade.

"Gulf security is our security, Gulf prosperity is our prosperity."

The Prime Minister hosted Qatar's leaders last week. Saudi Arabia is the biggest nation in the six-member Gulf Cooperation Council, which is believed to be very keen to sign a free trade deal with the UK immediately after Brexit.

Its deal with the European Union has stalled for over a decade.