The comments come with debate raging at the top of Government over what form of Brexit the Prime Minister should demand when she triggers formal talks, due to start by the end of March.

In particular there is a debate about whether Britain should leave the European single market, which reduces trade barriers and allows for free movement of goods between the 28 countries.

However Eurosceptics have reacted with fury at Sir Andrew’s decision to make clear his frustration through an interview with The Times and BBC Radio 4’s Today programme.

Mr Duncan, who was in the cabinet until earlier this year, told this newspaper: “I am not in the slightest bit interested with donors trying to dictate to the Government what to do. If that’s what he thinks his money was for then it would be better if he took it back.

“It is so ridiculous to start making threats like that. The Government has to do what the Government has to do. He’s a donor. If he wants to take his money away, bye bye.”