Cameron hails all-party support against Juncker bid

David Cameron says there is a political consensus in Westminster against Jean-Claude Juncker becoming president of the European Commission.

The prime minister was speaking after Labour said it opposed the former Luxembourg leader getting the job.

The UK opposition said Mr Juncker's record suggested he would make getting much-needed reforms "more difficult".

Mr Cameron hailed the support of "all major UK parties" as he held talks on the issue with other EU leaders.

Mr Cameron is meeting German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Swedish Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt and Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte for wide-ranging talks on the EU's future at Mr Reinfeldt's summer residence in Harpsund.

The person chosen to head the commission, the EU's executive body, will be one of the most contentious issues discussed during the two-day gathering.

'United'

Mrs Merkel has publicly backed Mr Juncker, the candidate nominated by party groups in Europe, but the UK, Sweden and the Netherlands are leading a campaign to block his candidacy.

Mr Cameron is strongly opposed to Mr Juncker's belief in a closer political union between EU member states and has described Brussels as "too big" and "too bossy".

His hand was strengthened on Monday when Labour said its MEPs in the European Parliament, which must approve the choice by EU leaders, would vote against Mr Juncker.

"The message from the European elections was clear - that we need reform in Europe," a spokesman said.

"We need reform so we can promote jobs and growth. Mr Juncker's record shows he would make these reforms more difficult."

'Engagement'

Nick Clegg, Britain's Deputy Prime Minister and Lib Dem leader, has already said he backs Mr Cameron's stance.