Reading: Speech PM statement on international affairs and cost of living issues: 19 January 2026
This authentic political speech discusses the UK’s international relations, especially its alliance with the United States, and its position on global security issues such as Greenland and NATO. It helps students understand key political ideas and vocabulary related to government, diplomacy, national interests, alliances, and international cooperation.
Speech PM statement on international affairs and cost of living issues: 19 January 2026
Speech PM statement on international affairs and cost of living issues: 19 January 2026
Prime Minister Keir Starmer's remarks at the press conference in 9 Downing Street this morning (Monday 19 January).
From: Prime Minister's Office, 10 Downing Street and The Rt Hon Sir Keir Starmer KCB KC MP Published 19 January 2026 Location: 9 Downing Street Delivered on: 19 January 2026 (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)
The Rt Hon Sir Keir Starmer KCB KC MP
The world has become markedly more turbulent in recent weeks. Events are moving fast, and in moments like this, what matters most is being clear about the values and the interests that guide us, even as circumstances change. The United Kingdom has a long history. Our values were not improvised - they were built patiently over time. And while we are pragmatic in how we pursue our interests, we are resolute in defending those values when it matters. So let me begin with the United States. The UK and the US are close allies and close partners. That relationship matters profoundly - not just to our security, but to the prosperity and the stability that people here at home depend on. Under President Trump, as under previous Presidents, we are determined to keep that relationship strong, constructive, and focused on results. And that approach is delivering. Through sustained engagement, we have seen significant US investment into the UK economy, running into the hundreds of billions of pounds, supporting growth, skills and jobs right across the country. And our cooperation on defence, nuclear capability, and intelligence remains as close and effective as anywhere in the world - keeping Britain safe in an increasingly dangerous environment. We have secured good trading terms in key sectors, including cars, steel, aerospace and life sciences - protecting British jobs and manufacturers. That is why we take the approach that we do. Because it delivers concrete outcomes in the national interest. I talk regularly with President Trump. My team is in daily contact with all the key figures in his administration. These relationships matter, they deliver concrete outcomes in the national interest. Mature alliances are not about pretending differences don’t exist; they are about addressing them directly, respectfully, and with a focus on results. On Greenland, the right way to approach an issue of this serious is through calm discussion between allies. Let’s be clear, the security of Greenland matters and it will matter more as climate change reshapes the Arctic. As sea routes open and strategic competition intensifies, the High North will require greater attention, greater investment, and stronger collective defence. The United States will be central to that effort, and the UK stands ready to contribute fully alongside our allies through NATO. But there is a principle here that cannot be set aside because it goes to the heart of how stable and trusted international cooperation works.