Dutch premier claims Britain is ‘diminished’ for leaving the EU

THE Dutch prime minister claimed last night that Britain is a ‘diminished’ country because of Brexit.

During a speech in Switzerland, Mark Rutte also warned that leaving the European Union without a deal would lead to ‘insurmountable’ consequences for the British economy.

Calling for more EU unity, Mr Rutte said: ‘We should stick together, now more than ever. Because if the chaos of Brexit teaches us anything, it’s that there’s no such thing as splendid isolation.’

However, former Tory leader Iain Duncan Smith hit back, saying: ‘Europe is mired in mess and debt and the UK made a bold decision to join the rest of the world.’

Tory MP Jacob Rees-Mogg added: ‘EU leaders are now resorting to mere abuse as their beloved institution flounders. Happily we are taking back control and can afford to laugh at their foibles.’