Merkel is pressuring Cameron to drop his opposition against an EU army

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The Prime Minister is to be told that Germany would support his bid to renegotiate the terms of Britain’s EU membership if he accepts moves to create a European military force.

Critics fear the development could marginalise Britain within Nato and further undermine the “special relationship” with America.

Robert Oxley, of the Eurosceptic pressure group Business for Britain, said: “This is further proof that inevitable EU integration means that the UK will lose control of its destiny and, possibly, its military strength inside an unreformed EU.

“What was once a zone designed for free trade has become a political, economic and potentially a military body.”

Tory MP Tom Pursglove said: “The British people have no desire for an EU army. We are immensely proud of our Armed Forces and owe all those who serve an enormous debt of gratitude.

“The impact of this would also be disastrous. Once again, the EU elite is out of step and at odds with the British people.”

Mrs Merkel has been one of Mr Cameron’s closest allies in his attempt to overhaul the way the EU functions.