Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy and trade minister Blair McDougall will head the largest ever UK business delegation to the United States this week, replacing Business Secretary Peter Kyle. The mission to Los Angeles involves over 200 firms and aims to bolster transatlantic trade amid domestic political turbulence and economic damage from the Iran conflict.
The event, co-hosted by Universal Music Group boss Sir Lucian Grainge and former Apple designer Sir Jony Ive, will feature speakers including Simon Cowell, Leona Lewis, Sir Paul Smith and astronaut Tim Peake. Chief executives of British Airways, News Corp and American Airlines are also attending. Key areas of focus include artificial intelligence, quantum computing, cultural exchange, fintech and scientific innovation.
The delegation follows the King’s recent state visit marking the 250th anniversary of American independence, during which Donald Trump scrapped tariffs on UK-made whisky. The visit is set against a backdrop of political upheaval in the UK, with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer under pressure after poor local election results and strained relations with the White House over the Middle East conflict.
In a video message to be played at the event, the King highlighted the enduring UK-US relationship, stating: “The United Kingdom and the United States share one of the most enduring and consequential relationships in modern history… Our cultures are woven together in ways that are immeasurable, but of enduring value.” He encouraged delegates to deepen alliances and forge new ones for future generations.
Ms Nandy hailed the UK’s creative industries, sporting heritage and tourism as “among our greatest national assets” and said the expo provides an “extraordinary opportunity to showcase them on the world stage”. She added: “I look forward to deepening those connections and opening new doors for British talent and creativity.”
