By Aled Thomas

All aspects of Britain’s security will be overseen by a new National Security Council (NSC) which has been set up by David Cameron.

The prime minister will chair the new committee, but the NSC will be led by national security advisor, Sir Peter Ricketts, based in the Cabinet Office.

Sir Peter has previously been permanent undersecretary at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Downing Street announced the setting up of the new body this morning and said: “The Council will coordinate responses to the dangers we face, integrating at the highest level the work of the foreign, defence, home, energy and international development departments, and all other arms of government contributing to national security.”

Nick Clegg will also have a permanent seat round the NSC table, as well as secretaries of state for defence, foreign affairs, and international development. The home secretary and security minister will also attend.

The chief of the defence staff and heads of intelligence agencies will attend as required.

The NSC will meet for the first time this afternoon to discuss Afghanistan, Pakistan and the terrorist threat to the UK.