EU Referendum: David Cameron confirms Conservative MPs will have free vote

David Cameron has confirmed that his party's MPs will be allowed a free vote in the referendum on Britain's membership of the European Union.

A number of cabinet ministers are thought to favour an out vote, with Mr Cameron expected to campaign for Britain to remain in the EU, although he has said he rules nothing out if he does not get what he wants from his renegotiations.

"There will be a clear government position but it will be open to individual ministers to take a different, personal position while remaining part of the government", Mr Cameron said.