Douglas Alexander MP, Labour’s Shadow Foreign Secretary said:

“These comments by a German government spokesperson reveal that David Cameron is both losing influence and losing allies in Europe.

“His weakness within his own party means he now risks pushing Britain towards exit from Europe altogether.

“The right road for Britain is reform within Europe, not exit from Europe.

“Britain needs leadership on Europe which puts jobs, investments and the national interest first. It’s clear that is not what we are getting from David Cameron.”