UK PM: Won't copy Norway's EU relationship

The plans form part of the European Commission's annual work programme, which Cameron's Europe minister said reflected British efforts to make the EU more competitive.

Following two referendums, the first in 1972 and the second in 1994, which both ended in marginal victories for the no side, Norway has negotiated a semi-detached relationship with the EU through its membership of the European Economic Area. "But of course they have no seat at the table, no ability to negotiate".

Number 10 highlighted comments from senior Norwegian politicians about the prospect of a looser relationship to Brussels.

Guy Levin, executive director of Coadec (the Coalition for the digital economy) which is driving the protest, said: "The government has a strong record supporting digital entrepreneurship, so it doesn't make sense that it is considering changes that would make it tougher for startups and scale-ups to thrive".

Mr Cameron will have a meeting with his Icelandic counterpart Sigmundur Gunnlaugsson this evening before the forum formally starts.

During the main conference, leaders will discuss how creative industries could spark economic growth, and how to provide better public services.

Former chancellor Lord Lawson, president of the Conservatives for Britain group, said: " It is disappointing that David Cameron is resorting to talking down Britain's chances of getting a good deal outside the EU.

In what marks a shift to a more pro-EU tone than previously, Mr Cameron's allies are also claiming Brexit could still cost the United Kingdom hundreds of millions of pounds and may not help Britain cut immigration. "Putting coding on the curriculum and investing in apprenticeships are steps in the right direction, but it is also vital that we are attracting the best talent from around the world. This is safer than voting to remain which means giving more power and money to Brussels every year".

"One by one, the alternatives to Britain's European Union membership are falling apart".

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The "Norwegian option" is so-called because Norway is not an EU member state, but still maintains close ties with the union.

The trip to Iceland is taking place just weeks before the EU's 27 other national leaders are due to scrutinize his demands for changes to Britain's relationship with the European Union at a summit in Brussels. "I really don't see a problem there".

The Prime Minister confirmed that "no options are off the table" and " if we don't get what we need in our renegotiation I rule absolutely nothing out". But euro enthusiasts counter that Norway also misses out on other key benefits while still making substantial contributions.

"We'd like to be the little helper to get these things resolved".

"Very often, Europe is blamed for something that is decided in the member states by themselves".

British anti-EU forces, including groups campaigning for a British exit at the referendum, have long suggested Norway could be a model for Britain.