Northern Ireland Secretary James Brokenshire has insisted Northern Ireland’s interests will be protected in Brexit talks despite failing to secure a seat on a crucial Government committee.

Mr Brokenshire will attend the new European Exit and Trade Committee at the invitation of its permanent members, but has not secured a seat.

Prime Minister Theresa May will chair the new committee and its membership includes Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson, Brexit Secretary David Davis and Chancellor Philip Hammond.

Mr Brokenshire told BBC Radio Ulster: “I am able to attend meetings of that committee where there are Northern Ireland-related issues.

“I am confident I am able to represent Northern Ireland’s view, Northern Ireland’s perspective, into the Brexit consideration and absolutely remain at the heart of discussions across Whitehall in ensuring the voice of Northern Ireland is heard loud and clear, and I am that champion to ensure that the issues that matter to Northern Ireland are properly reflected into the negotiation.”

He added: “I am entirely satisfied that the arrangements that are in place are appropriate for me to advocate very firmly the views of Northern Ireland and to ensure we do have that loud voice in Whitehall underlining the key themes.”