Obama to offer opposition to Brexit 'as a friend'

Barack Obama will use his visit to the UK next week to offer his view "as a friend" that Britain is better off remaining within the EU.

US officials suggested the US President would "make it clear it is a matter for British people to decide" in the referendum on June 23, but said the US believes the UK economy would suffer if the vote is cast to leave.

The UK has "exercised influence in the world for centuries and has helped shape the modern era", they said.

"We want that influence to continue - we think this is best practised in groups, and it is easier to do that if the UK remains part of the EU." Brexit would risk "damaging EU stability", they added.

While the president will offer his view if asked, he is not expected to "make a point to stand and discuss it".