Philip Hammond is facing accusations of attempting to “undermine Brexit” by pushing for delays to Cabinet measures designed to control immigration.

The Chancellor has been criticised by Cabinet colleagues for “arguing like an accountant seeing the risk of everything” rather than pressing ahead with plans for Brexit.

It is understood that Mr Hammond was one of a number of voices urging caution during a Brexit Cabinet committee meeting last week during which proposals were discussed for a new work permit system designed to reduce immigration.

At the meeting Amber Rudd, the Home Secretary, presented plans for a post-Brexit visa regime that would see all European Union workers forced to prove they have secured a skilled job before being allowed into Britain.