The King reaffirmed the close and enduring relationship between Britain and the US during a state banquet, expressing hope that co-operation and the special bond between the two countries can deepen further.
Britain has agreed a multi-billion-pound technology pact with the US to bolster investment in AI, defence and advanced research, while President Trump stands firm on steel tariffs that the PM is keen to have removed.
Questions about leadership and judgement continue for Starmer as emails emerge detailing his knowledge of contact between Mandelson and Epstein, with the resignation of a senior aide adding further pressure amid ongoing speculation about his team’s stability and direction.
The PM is relying on a new nuclear power agreement with the US to stabilise leadership and restore political authority following recent internal challenges.
Downing Street and the Foreign Office were reportedly aware of damaging correspondence before Starmer supported Mandelson as US envoy, raising questions about judgement and internal government communication.
Mandelson has asserted that he was transparent about his association with Epstein, as ministers question the PM’s handling of the situation and the ongoing scrutiny over ministerial judgement intensifies.
Starmer has declined to remove Mandelson from his role as US envoy, maintaining full confidence in him despite ongoing scrutiny regarding his past associations.
Rachel Reeves has instructed cabinet ministers to maintain strict control over departmental budgets, urging them to keep spending within existing limits and putting a halt to further borrowing in order to ensure the sustainability of public finances.
The government is considering imposing visa restrictions on countries that refuse to co-operate with the return of individuals whose claims to stay in the UK have been rejected, aiming to increase the number of deportations and strengthen border control.
The PM is appointing key figures associated with pro-growth, moderate policies to senior cabinet roles, focusing on boosting the economy and reforming welfare and building regulations.