The King’s State Visit and Its Impact on UK-US Relations
The recent state visit of the King to America has been described as a significant diplomatic success, helping to mend the strained relationship between former US President Donald Trump and UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. A senior Labour Minister, Blair McDougall, who serves as Under-Secretary of State for Small Business and Economic Transformation, has highlighted the positive outcomes of the visit.
McDougall co-hosted the ‘Greater Together Los Angeles’ exposition, which was the largest transatlantic trade mission in history, alongside Lisa Nandy, Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport. In an exclusive interview with The Mail on Sunday, McDougall praised the King’s efforts during his four-day state visit at the end of last month, stating that it was a “diplomatic masterstroke.”
“Political ups and downs come and go. His Majesty’s state visit was an absolute triumph. He absolutely unlocked the US and renewed that deep relationship that we have,” McDougall said.
Trump’s Shift in Attitude
President Trump had previously expressed his disapproval of Starmer, referring to him as “weak and pathetic” and criticizing him for not allowing US aircraft to use British bases for strikes against Iran. However, during the King and Queen’s visit, there was a noticeable shift in Trump’s attitude. A source close to Trump told The Mail on Sunday: “It’s no secret the President has little time for Starmer. He thinks the guy’s an idiot but the president loves the Royal family and was blown away by Charles and Camilla.”
McDougall observed a change in the government’s mood following the royal visit. “There was a real feeling across government. We were singing on the plane on the way over to Los Angeles and you could feel that optimism and confidence. His Majesty unlocked that opportunity for us.”
Economic Benefits and Cultural Ties
One of the notable outcomes of the visit was Trump’s announcement of the removal of ten per cent tariffs on Scottish whisky. McDougall attributed this decision to the strong cultural ties between the UK and the US. “We managed to get preferential treatment and I think a lot of the analysis about why that is the case is because Donald Trump feels very warmly towards the UK. And why is that? It’s because of those deeper cultural relationships.”
He emphasized that economic partnerships are built on historical, cultural, and almost familial connections. “Every relationship has its ups and downs but like any family you come back together and I think that’s what we are seeing.”
Labour Party and Industrial Strategy
McDougall also spoke about the leadership contest within the Labour Party, noting that despite internal debates, there is a growing consensus around the industrial strategy he oversees. “We’re very much getting on with the job and getting on with business and that is important in attracting investment to the UK because they (American investors) need to know that regardless of what happens in politics internally or externally this is a long-term plan that we’re committed to.”
This sense of stability, according to McDougall, gives people confidence and signals to the world that the UK is open for business.
International Recognition
The King and Queen’s visit has also boosted the UK’s international standing. “People are walking a little bit taller on the international stage as a result. It’s great. People are really happy and really excited,” McDougall added.
The ‘Greater Together Los Angeles’ exposition brought together more than 230 British businesses, including appearances by celebrities such as Simon Cowell, Leona Lewis, and Sir Gareth Southgate. High-profile attendees included Sir Lucian Grainge, Chairman of Universal Music Group, and Dame Donna Langley, Chairwoman of Universal Pictures, as well as former Apple designer Sir Johnny Ive.
A Strong Partnership
The event also featured a lavish reception at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, attended by VIPs such as astronaut Major Tim Peake and CEOs from British Airways and American Airlines. UK Ambassador Sir Christian Turner, who replaced Lord Peter Mandelson, stated: “Britain is open for business. In an uncertain world the UK stands out as a safe harbour for capital and ideas.”
The US and UK enjoy a robust economic relationship, with $430 billion in annual trade and $1.7 trillion invested in each other’s economies. The US remains the single biggest investor in the UK.
