Trump inauguration shows importance of close ties with Europe

Commenting as Trump's inauguration takes place today, Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Alex Cole-Hamilton said:

“Donald Trump returning to the White House will be deeply worrying for millions of people in the UK and around the world. With a President who promises trade wars, undermines NATO and praises Vladimir Putin, the threats to our national security and our economy are clear.

“The UK must lead on the world stage again, standing up for our interests by working closely with other countries - above all our European neighbours.

“We need to make sure that Ukraine has the weapons it needs to carry on defending its territory and protecting the whole European continent.

“The threat of tariffs could cause real damage to our economy and have a particular impact on our whisky industry. If some kind of trade war with America is now a realistic short-term possibility then we must, as a matter of urgency, negotiate a brand-new Customs Union deal to cut red tape and boost British businesses.”

“My party will press the UK Government to be far more ambitious and positive in fixing our relationship with Europe, to strengthen Britain’s hand when it comes to dealing with Trump.”