STORY
Burnham and Trump discuss defence and Middle East in first call
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has spoken to United States President Donald Trump shortly after taking office, in his first reported call with the American leader since entering Downing Street. The Prime Minister began by congratulating Trump on a successful World Cup and the two leaders agreed that England had had an excellent tournament.
Burnham also said he hoped to show Trump what Manchester had to offer during a future visit. Downing Street said the new Prime Minister used the call to set out his vision for Government, including a focus on reindustrialisation across the country and delivering growth in every postcode.
The Prime Minister also underlined his commitment to defence and security, saying the protection of the UK and its allies would be at the top of his agenda. The call came on Burnham’s first afternoon in office, following the formal transfer of power from Sir Keir Starmer.
Trump updated Burnham on the situation in the Middle East. Burnham said the UK remained committed to securing the movement of shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, which Downing Street linked to supporting global supply chains and helping to drive down costs for businesses and families.
The call signals early continuity in the UK’s relationship with the United States under Burnham’s premiership, particularly on defence, allied security and international trade routes. Downing Street said the two leaders looked forward to speaking again soon.