Martin Wrigley, Liberal Democrat MP for Newton Abbot, has raised concerns about future US-UK defence collaboration under the incoming Trump administration, questioning the Ministry of Defence (MoD) on recent discussions with the incoming US Defense Secretary.
In his written query, Wrigley asked: “What recent discussions on future US-UK defence collaboration he has had with the incoming US Defense Secretary.”
Responding on behalf of the Government, Luke Pollard, Minister for the Armed Forces, underlined the enduring strength of the UK-US defence relationship, stating: “The US is our closest security ally. The Government looks forward to working with the incoming US Administration in the months and years ahead.”
Pollard, however, clarified that the Senate confirmation process for members of President-elect Trump’s cabinet is still ongoing.
Pollard’s response also referenced the Prime Minister’s communications with President-elect Trump, revealing that the two leaders have already held introductory discussions.
“The Prime Minister had a warm introductory call with President-elect Trump on 6 November and spoke again with the President-elect on 18 December. The Prime Minister offered his congratulations and said he looked forward to working closely with President-elect Trump across all areas of the special relationship and our shared priorities, including international security.”
While the MoD’s response reflects optimism about continued US-UK defence collaboration, it stops short of providing specifics on planned engagements with the incoming US Defense Secretary.
As the Trump administration prepares to take office, questions remain about how evolving priorities in Washington could impact the longstanding “special relationship” and shared defence commitments.
After most of the Government have slagged off Trump and Labour tried to influence the US elections they then claim that we will have good relations with the US. It is so hypercritical…
Hopfuly Trump tells starmer and our defence Secretary how much damage both Tory and is Labour government has done to our armed forces in the last 30years or so and we are much to small. And wake up time is now and 2.5% on defence is ridicules so out more money in Defence pot 🇬🇧
I’m sure the UK is thrilled to be working with the Donald on defence collaboration, perhaps he needs assistance landing troops in Panama and wants to use near by UK bases in the Cayman islands or Belize.
The Donald recognizes that the UK doesn’t really bring much to the table so he won’t pay it much attention. The last time the US invaded Panama, Maggie was in charge; but now it has Starmer, Lammy, and Healey – Larry, Mo and Curly.