Andy Burnham yesterday cleared his first major diplomatic hurdle as his meeting with Donald Trump in Manhattan passed without serious incident. During a 30-minute encounter on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, the US President bestowed on Burnham two of his highest compliments, calling him a ‘natural businessman’ and a ‘great prime minister’.

Trump dialled up the niceties further by describing UK-US relations as ‘more up now than they were with your last prime minister’. Indicating that Burnham had impressed him personally behind closed doors, the President explained that ‘based on my relationship with your prime minister Andy, I think that we’re doing very well’.

At least until a new administration enters the White House, the Chagos deal appears dead.

At least until a new administration enters the White House, the Chagos deal appears dead.

Such warm words – and a mini press conference devoid........

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