Boris Johnson has hailed Brexit as the reason for the new trade deal between the UK and the US. The former prime minister and ardent Brexiteer said Britain would not have been able to strike the pact if it were still part of Brussels.

Mr Johnson told GB News: “Brexit is certainly responsible because we wouldn’t have been able to do this deal individually with the United States if we weren’t outside the European Union. That’s for ding-dang sure.” Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is expected to say more on the deal later on Thursday. Meanwhile, US president Donald Trump is due to give a press conference at 10am in Washington, 3pm UK time.

In a post on his Truth Social platform, Mr Trump said: "This should be a very big and exciting day for the United States of America and the United Kingdom."

He added: "The agreement with the United Kingdom is a full and comprehensive one that will cement the relationship between the United States and the United Kingdom for many years to come.

"Because of our long-time history and allegiance together, it is a great honour to have the United Kingdom as our FIRST announcement. Many other deals, which are in serious stages of negotiation, to follow!"

Speaking to the London Defence Conference, Sir Keir said: "Talks with the US have been ongoing and you'll hear more from me about that later today.

"But make no mistake, I will always act in our national interest, for workers, businesses and families, to deliver security and renewal for our country."

The Government has been pursuing a deal with the US to reduce the impact of sweeping tariffs imposed by Mr Trump last month, which placed a 10% levy on all UK exports and a 25% charge on steel, aluminium and cars.