Nigel Farage has expressed his willingness to assist Lord Mandelson, the incoming UK Ambassador to the United States, in engaging with the Trump administration.
Farage, the leader of Reform UK and a long-time ally of Donald Trump, believes his established connections with the Republican president-elect could prove valuable in bridging the gap between the British Government and the White House.
Lord Mandelson, a Labour peer, has suggested that Farage’s close ties with Trump could be advantageous in fostering communication between the UK and the incoming US administration. However, Downing Street remained tight-lipped when asked if Sir Keir Starmer would support Farage’s involvement.
The Prime Minister’s spokesperson simply stated that efforts had already begun to cultivate a relationship with President-elect Trump. Insider sources at Number 10 have also clarified that Farage will not be used as an intermediary between Sir Keir Starmer and Trump.
Farage, however, has made it clear that while he may not have any fondness for the Labour Party, he is willing to lend his support if it serves the national interest.
He told The Telegraph, “I am no fan of any of the people in the Labour Party, but if it is in the national interest, I have always thought I could be a useful asset if they want to use that – but if they don’t, more fool them.”
The former UKIP leader has previously offered to use his relationships with Trump and his cabinet members to help facilitate discussions between the UK Government and the United States.
He noted that many members of Trump’s inner circle are long-time friends, adding that he could assist with matters related to trade, tariffs, intelligence-sharing, and counterterrorism. “I know these people, and in terms of trade, defence, and intelligence, the US is our most important relationship in the world – forget Brussels,” Farage remarked.
Farage also indicated that discussions on a free trade agreement between the two nations are likely to take a sector-by-sector approach. He further stated, “I would help even if it benefits the Government because it is in the national interest. But they are so divided they might not want to take up my offer.”
His extensive experience in trade negotiations is seen as an asset, particularly with concerns rising over the potential implications of a second Trump presidency for the UK.
Trump has previously pledged to implement significant tariffs, which could have far-reaching consequences for British businesses.
However, Lord Mandelson’s past comments about Trump may complicate efforts to build strong US-UK relations.
The Labour grandee has previously referred to Trump as “little short of a white nationalist and racist,” and these remarks could resurface as the UK seeks to strengthen its ties with the US in the wake of Trump’s re-election.
In summary, while Farage’s readiness to assist in fostering stronger UK-US ties is clear, political divisions within the UK Government may prevent him from playing a central role in negotiations with the incoming Trump administration.
