Sir Keir Starmer's "Brexit reset" deal with the EU could risk being undercut by France, following reports that Paris could block Britain from taking part in a European defence programme.
France is said to be shutting out competitive British firms from accessing the European Defence Industry Programme (Edip) - effectively barring the UK from a multi-billion-pound market.
French diplomats have insisted the programme should only include EU, Norwegian and Ukrainian firms, while President Emmanuel Macron has long pushed for EU-only defence spending.
"Not even a month ago, we solemnly declared the turning of pages and opening of new chapters in our relationship with the UK," an EU diplomat told The Telegraph.
French diplomats have insisted the programme should only include EU, Norwegian and Ukrainian firms
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"Yet, at the first occasion to turn those words into action, we have slammed the book shut."
In the past, Starmer has pushed for Britain to be treated like an EU member on defence - but a Brussels diplomat said back in March: "While Macron is playing nice with Starmer in front of the cameras, he's actively working to shut the UK out of the EU's defence spending plans."
Back then, a Government spokesman said: "We live in challenging times - global geopolitical instability and war in Europe means enhancing our defence capability is important.
"This includes closer cooperation with the EU, with Nato remaining the cornerstone of our security."
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Sir Keir Starmer's 'Brexit reset' deal with the EU could risk being undercut by France
PA
Alongside Edip, Britain has also signed up to the Security and Defence Partnership, paving the way for the UK defence industry to participate in the EU’s Security Action for Europe (Safe) defence fund.
Brexiteers warn the costs of joining remain opaque and risk subordinating Britain's defence policy to Brussels.
And like Edip, the UK is also not guaranteed funding, making it possible for EU member states to block Britain from benefitting from the defence pot.
Ministers, however, said the deal would make "the British people safer and more secure".
Nick Thomas-Symonds has hailed defence agreements with the EU as deals to 'make the British people safer'
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Labour's chief Brexit negotiator Nick Thomas-Symonds said:"Today is a historic day, marking the opening of a new chapter in our relationship with the EU that delivers for working people across the UK.
"Since the start of these negotiations, we have worked for a deal to make the British people safer, more secure and more prosperous.
"Our new UK-EU Strategic Partnership achieves all three objectives. It delivers on jobs, bills and borders.
"Today is a day of delivery. Britain is back on the world stage with a Government in the service of working people."
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