GAVIN Williamson has claimed “hard work” is taking place across Government to give the “right resources” to the armed forces, amid Tory pleas to “fend off” Treasury cuts.

But the Defence Secretary would not comment on speculation that the defence element of the ongoing strategic defence and security review would be separated.

Tory former minister Mark Francois said Mr Williamson would receive support from his colleagues and those on the Labour benches if he continued to rebuff the “pinstripe warriors” of the Treasury.

Further cuts are feared amid major pressure on the defence budget. Mr Williamson told MPs: “I’d like to assure you we’re working hard across Government to make sure we have the right resources for our armed forces – not just this year, next year but going forward.”