Merkel to push ahead with EU army following Brexit vote, says German defence minister

ANGELA Merkel could press ahead with plans to create an EU army following Britain's decision to leave the EU, according to the German defence minister.

Ursula von der Leyen, who has been tipped to take over Merkel as Chancellor, said Britain had "paralysed" European efforts for closer integration in military co-ordination and "blocked everything that had Europe written on it”.

During her speech in Berlin, Mrs von der Leyen added: “Europeans are right to expect that the EU tackles the big questions. We now have that opportunity."

Germany's defence plan calls for a "permanent structured co-operation in the defence sector" which Britain has consistently opposed while being an EU member.

Despite the timely announcement, Mrs von de Layen said the plans would have gone ahead with the announcement even without the Brexit vote.

She said: "I am of firm conviction that some of the frustration of people in Europe is connected with the fact that Europe did not progress much on an issue which the majority of people agree — that a European security and foreign policy is the right thing."

The potential for an EU army is allowed under the Lisbon treaty yet the British government has consistently opposed such a move.

Retired army officers have warned staying in the EU would damage Britain's military capabilities and have been critical about the lack of accountability an EU army would have.

Their website questions: “Who would control the EU armed forces? The EU Commission? Can we call them to account?

"Can we seriously believe that our soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines should be sent into danger by a body over which we have no control, and which answers to none of us.”

France are said to be delighted with the German announcement, and will submit similar proposals soon.