GORDON BROWN insisted last night that Britain would remain a powerful voice in Brussels after Labour peer Baroness Ashton was appointed as the European

The Lancashire-born peer was the surprise choice of the 27 EU heads of government – including the Prime Minister – after Tony Blair’s candidacy for the European Council presidency was quashed.

Belgian Prime Minister Herman van Rompuy was named as Europe’s first President, with Baroness Ashton of Upholland as High Representative for Foreign and Security Policy.

Mr Brown, who had lobbied for his predecessor, Mr Blair, to get the top job, said Mr van Rompuy had a reputation for “integrity and resolve” and the necessary qualities as a diplomat, statesman and negotiator.

The Prime Minister said he still felt that Mr Blair would have been “excellent” for the job, but said it had become clear that the European centre-right parties wanted one of their own members as President.

He added that Baroness Ashton, who will also be vice-president of the European Commission, would maintain the UK’s role in the EU.

The appointment means, however, that Britain has surrendered its influence over trade affairs – Baroness Ashton is currently EU Trade Commissioner.