'Shivers down the spine' warning from Shrewsbury MP over calls for EU army

Mr Kawczynski's warning follows talk about the possibility of an EU army from leaders around the continent.

Earlier this month, European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker said the EU needed its own armed forces to "fulfil" its mission in the world – despite the Commission insisting in June there were no such plans.

But Mr Kawczynski said it could be a "threat" to peace and security.

He said: "The UK has been dragged into hugely costly, in terms of human sacrifice, two wold wars in Europe.

"The thing that has prevented another major war is Nato. It is something to cherish, something not to take for granted.

"I think some people may take it for granted. Interestingly, during the referendum, some constituents were confusing Nato with the EU as to who had kept the peace."

Mr Kawczynski said he had become increasingly concerned since a photograph was released showing Angela Merkel, Francois Hollande and Matteo Renzi together on an air craft carrier, indicating that they want to start a single EU army.

Many say that Britain's departure from the EU – which could happen by 2020 – has opened up an opportunity for other countries to push forward with altering the way security is provided within the Brussels club.

Mr Kawczynski said: "That should send shivers down our spines.

"It is a challenge and a threat to the strength and security of Nato."

The MP also added that the EU leaders "do not have good form" when it comes to managing the big issues, including the refugee crisis and the recession bail outs.

He said: "If they refuse to listen to us and press ahead with the single EU army, i think we will be left with no other option but to encourage other countries to pull out of the EU.

"Countries like Poland, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania – they know better than anyone the importance of the unity and strength of Nato.

"If the EU wants to create this army, it will be the biggest challenge to peace and security in recent times."