BREXIT minister Robin Walker has invoked the spirit of Margaret Thatcher - urging the current Prime Minister to follow her example in getting the best EU deal.

Back in 1984 Britain's first lady PM used her tough negotiating style to secure her famous rebate, which has since been worth £117 billion to UK coffers.

Mr Walker says Theresa May will now need to draw on The Iron Lady's stance in the crucial months ahead.

Worcester's MP, who has been locked in meetings with top EU officials in recent weeks, has also insisted "the days of Britain making vast contributions to the EU will end".

It comes despite EU leaders claiming the UK needs to settle a £50 billion EU 'divorce bill' before starting trade talks.

Mr Walker was questioned about the crucial issue during a debate in parliament by MP Philip Hollobone.

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Mr Hollobone said: "The massive £117 billion total rebate since Margaret Thatcher negotiated it in 1984 is testament to her resolution and determination in getting the best deal for Britain, and refusing to take no for an answer.

"Will (Mr Walker) agree to emulate her negotiating style and swing the metaphorical handbag until we get the deal Britain needs?"

Mr Walker said: "As befits the tough reputation of both our Secretary of State (Brexit Secretary David Davis) and the Prime Minister, we'll be robust in defending the UK’s national interest throughout this negotiating process.

"As the Prime Minister set out in her speech on 17 January, the days of Britain making vast contributions to the European Union every year will end.

"Just as our first lady Prime Minister secured the rebate and value for the British taxpayer, I'm sure our second will fight Britain’s corner throughout the negotiations."

The UK rebate kicked in back in 1985 and was worth more than £4.9 billion last year, with the clawback varying each year depending on the net contribution to the EU budget.

The country was then third poorest member of the bloc despite making the largest net contributions, with Mrs Thatcher famously saying: "We are simply asking to have our own money back".

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It remains in place today despite serious pressure from other EU states to get the rebate axed.

Mrs May met EU leaders in Downing Street this week where the £50 billion 'divorce bill' for Brexit was believed to have been discussed.

Yesterday former PM David Cameron said Britain should settle the money first.

"It's a bit like a divorce, you have to deal with the money and then access to the children afterwards," he said.