Brown rules out Opposition in war cabinet

GORDON Brown yesterday ruled out inviting Opposition leaders to regular "war cabinet" meetings after David Cameron said he would do so if the Conservatives come to power.

The Prime Minister said they were often briefed on Afghanistan and other military matters on Privy Council terms and there was no need for further high-level meetings.

Yesterday Mr Cameron said he wanted to see such a move as part of a new style of government that would focus on unity and consensus rather than on tribal political interests.

But Mr Brown said the government already had a war cabinet which met regularly and included all the "major players" from the security services.

He insisted the best way of providing sensitive information to the Opposition was on Privy Council terms.

He said: "We do consult the Opposition leaders – they get briefings on Privy Council terms."