Michael Gove’s approval is seen as vital for any deal

Michael Gove has been added to Theresa May’s Brexit “war cabinet” in a move that strengthens the power of those who voted to leave the EU.

The environment secretary and Liam Fox, the international trade secretary, have both joined a group of six ministers who had been plotting Britain’s negotiation strategy.

The move means cabinet Brexiteers now have a big majority on the body that will decide Britain’s future.

Jeremy Hunt, the health secretary, who voted “remain” but now says he would back Brexit if the vote were held again, has also joined the committee.

Senior government sources said the expansion had occurred in order to get Gove on the panel because he is seen as a key power broker whose approval would be needed