Davey urges Starmer to forge new UK-Canada defence pact to reduce reliance on Trump

EMBARGO: 22.30 Friday 13 June 2025

Liberal Democrat Leader Ed Davey has called on the Prime Minister to forge a new UK-Canada defence pact, to strengthen national security and boost the economy, while reducing both countries' reliance on Donald Trump’s US administration.

It comes as Keir Starmer is expected to arrive in Canada ahead of the G7 summit beginning this weekend.

This week the Trump administration said it would review the submarine deal with the UK and Australia, saying the security pact must fit its "America First" agenda.

Liberal Democrat Leader Ed Davey said:

“Trump has shown his disregard for our collective security time and time again - not least this week, displaying total indifference to his traditional allies by threatening the future of the AUKUS defence agreement.

“We should work with our Commonwealth ally Canada as it joins the UK in increasing defence spending, but also looks to move away from its reliance on US military exports.

“That is why I am urging the Prime Minister to propose a new, bilateral UK-Canada defence pact at the G7 this weekend, making us more secure while also boosting British manufacturing.”

ENDS