Following the phone calls, a Downing Street spokesperson said:
The Prime Minister took calls from Chancellor Merkel and Prime Minister Rutte this afternoon, ahead of the European Council. Discussions focused on the appointment of the next Commission President.
The Prime Minister explained that his opposition to the “Spitzenkandidaten” process would not change. Chancellor Merkel and Prime Minister Rutte recognised the PM’s position and agreed that if the European Council decides not to proceed by consensus then there should be a vote.
Both leaders also underlined their support for Britain’s continued membership of a reformed European Union and their ongoing commitment to working with the Prime Minister as he renegotiates Britain’s relationship with the EU.