Ditch migrant benefits curb or delay EU deal, PM is told

DAVID Cameron has been told he must drop his flagship EU renegotiation demand on migrant benefits if he is to get a deal before Christmas.

The Prime Minister has asked officials in Brussels for a speedy agreement to be wrapped up at a summit in a fortnight’s time.

But European Council president Donald Tusk, who will chair the meeting of 28 EU leaders, will today tell Mr Cameron he must back down on benefits and re-write his demands in days.

The PM wants to stop benefits to EU migrant workers until they have been here for four years, but this was rejected by other leaders.

A major review of migrant benefits was due to be published by the European Commission next Wednesday, a week before the summit.

But the Mail has learnt the overhaul has been quietly shelved until next year because of fears it would be an ‘embarrassing slap in the face’ for Mr Cameron as it will reject his proposals. An EU source said the report will recommend letting nations clampdown on sending child benefits abroad – as the PM requested. But it will allow restricting in-work benefits to new arrivals only for three or six months.

The report will now be put on ice until March, when it is hoped the British renegotiation will have been sealed.

Mr Tusk yesterday warned Mr Cameron’s plan for a quick deal on December 17 had a ‘very, very clear’ chance of failure. He said he would support the PM if he chose to push for a rapid agreement, but said he will have to submit finalised demands, including compromises, in days or face having to wait until February.