Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

UK-US Relationship

Tuesday 16 June 2026 · 4 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 1 Partly answered 3 Not answered 0

Key points

  • The US is the UK's deepest security ally, biggest trading partner, and top export market.
  • Prime Minister is discussing support for Ukraine at the G7 and meeting with President Zelensky to maintain economic pressure on Russia.
  • The UK is engaged in security and economic co-operation with the US and Middle Eastern countries regarding Iran, including nuclear power negotiations and reopening the strait of Hormuz.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Vikki Slade Lib Dem Mid Dorset and North Poole
Foreign Affairs Business & Trade
Context

The question follows the state visit of the King to mark 250 years since US independence. The MP references Jo Cox, a fellow West Yorkshire MP who was an internationalist.

Question

I am concerned about the effectiveness of the UK's relationship with the US. What recent assessment has been made?

Answer from Yvette Cooper

We think of Jo Cox's sister Kim who is keeping her legacy alive. The US is our deepest security ally, biggest trading partner, and top export market. I saw the strength of people-to-people relations during the state visit.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The effectiveness of the relationship was not directly assessed; instead, general points about alliance were made without specific evaluation.

How: Changed Subject

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Q2 Vikki Slade Lib Dem Mid Dorset and North Poole
Ukraine Foreign Affairs
Context

The MP raises concerns about the impact of US actions on Russia, citing a potential benefit for Russia from increased oil revenue during the Iran-US conflict.

Question

Over three months, the conflict has made people rich and Russian revenue from oil and petroleum has risen by 39%. Given this, does the Foreign Secretary share my concern that these actions are harming our special relationship?

Answer from Yvette Cooper

Prime Minister is discussing support for Ukraine at G7, and G7 met with President Zelensky on maintaining economic pressure. The risk that Russia benefits from conflict in Iran is highlighted.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Specific concern about US actions was not directly addressed; instead, emphasis was placed on maintaining economic pressure on Russia.

How: Changed Subject

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Q3 Christopher Vince Lab Co-op Harlow
Foreign Affairs
Context

The MP echoes sentiments about Jo Cox and emphasizes the importance of a strong relationship between the UK and the US, particularly in reference to businesses like Raytheon in Harlow.

Question

Does the Foreign Secretary agree that it is crucial for us to maintain our special relationship with the United States, especially regarding American businesses such as those in my constituency?

Answer from Yvette Cooper

Prime Minister's actions are praised. The UK has taken a different view regarding Iran but continues to engage in security and economic co-operation. Businesses in Harlow will continue this relationship.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The MP's specific ask about agreement on maintaining the special relationship was not directly confirmed; instead, general support for businesses was mentioned.

How: Changed Subject

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Q4 Priti Patel Con Witham
Foreign Affairs
Context

The MP acknowledges the historic relationship with partners in the region and asks about Britain's involvement in recent negotiations.

Question

Can the Foreign Secretary tell us what role Britain has played in negotiating between the United States and Middle Eastern countries regarding Iran, and what our future foreign policy and security strategy will be?

Answer from Yvette Cooper

Spoke to Secretary of State Rubio about final stages of discussions before memorandum. Detailed phases of work, including nuclear power negotiations and reopening strait of Hormuz, are ongoing. Engaged with France for maritime mission and Gulf partners for navigation freedom.

Answered

Not addressed: null

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