BASILDON and Billericay MP John Baron urged the Prime Minister to seek a fundamental change in Britain’s relationship with the European Union – based on free trade, not closer politicial union.

Mr Baron spoke out during Prime Minister’s Question Time in the House of Commons.

He was hoping to pressure David Cameron, ahead of talks with other Continental leaders over the future of the European Union.

Mr Baron is part of a large group of euro-sceptic Tory MPs who have been calling for the Premier to re-negotiate Britain’s involvement in Europe. This would be in exchange for supporting French and German proposals to help solve the crisis with the single currency.

Mr Baron said: “May I suggest a fundamental renegotiation of our relationship with the EU, based on free trade and competitiveness, which other countries enjoy, and not political union and dead-weight regulation?

“This EU summit is a defining moment, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.’’ The Prime Minister appeared evasive in his response and would not commit to achieving any concessions.