15:25

Ken Livingstone told the Guardian that he spoke to Maria Eagle about his views on Trident two weeks ago but has not yet spoken to her about the defence review.

I had a chat with Maria about nuclear weapons a couple of weeks ago - we passed in the street. I’m sure we can work together, I’ve known her for many years, we will get on.

He claimed that his appointment to the review was made by the national executive committee (NEC) because of a longstanding party arrangement.

Labour’s NEC has to appoint people to each major policy review. The economy, environment and defence each have one person from the shadow cabinet and one from the NEC. I am sure she [Eagle] knew about this.

She has since denied knowing about Livingstone’s role until it emerged

on social media.