Top Tory rejects closer EU ties as Rishi Sunak faces new Brexit civil war

Rishi Sunak has been hit by a furious Conservative backlash over claims his government is considering a Swiss-style relationship with the EU to ease trade barriers Brexit

Rishi Sunak is facing a major backlash from conservatives following reports that the government wants closer ties with the EU (

Image: Downing Street)

A cabinet minister has rejected closer EU ties as Rishi Sunak faces an explosive Tory war on Brexit.

The prime minister has been hit with a furious backlash from his own MPs over claims he is considering a Swiss-style relationship with the bloc to ease trade barriers.

Senior officials are reportedly investigating whether the UK could emulate Switzerland in its relations with Brussels, but without freedom of movement.

But a government spokesman said the claim was 'categorically false' this afternoon after a swift reaction from Tory Brexiteers.

Health Secretary Steve Barclay has insisted he 'doesn't acknowledge' the Sunday Times stories at all - and said he would not support such a move.

"We have a Prime Minister who himself backed Brexit. I did that myself and was Brexit Secretary, and worked very hard to maximize our control of our laws, our borders and our money," Mr Barclay told Sky News' Ridge on the Sunday programme.

Health Secretary Steve Barclay (

Picture:

PENNSYLVANIA)

"It is therefore absolutely important, especially in high growth sectors, such as financial services, life sciences and green industries, that we really use the Brexit freedoms we have.< /p>

"So I don't recognize this story at all."

When asked if he could support a Swiss-style relationship, he replied, "Well, I didn't support that. I want to maximize the opportunities that Brexit presents."

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Mr. Barclay admitted there had been 'greater friction' in trade following Boris Johnson's Brexit deal, which the ex-Prime Minister has repeatedly claimed he is 'ready for. oven".

Chancellor