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In the murky waters of British politics, one name that has bubbled up with the regularity of a solstice brew is Lord Mandelson. He has now been appointed the new UK Ambassador to Washington and as such will be a critical variable in the growth of relations between the centre left, technocratic UK government of Keir Starmer, and the brave new world of Donald Trump's second term.

The two governments on the face of it cannot be further removed. It is not merely the Atlantic Ocean that divides, nor our different takes on the English language, but philosophy, being and sense of purpose. Rude epithets have been thrown out by both sides about each other. Post the announcement Chris LaCivita took to social media to welcome the appointment by calling Mandelson an “absolute moron”. In turn in the past Mandelson, once described by the UK press as “The Prince of Darkness” for his time as the chief architect of Tony Blair’s term as Prime Minister, has been less than obliging about Donald Trump. Five years ago he described him as "reckless and a danger to the world". What needs to be noted is that Mandelson has, almost solely in the UK left wing political biosphere, been pragmatic about the realities of a Trump White House, and has seen Trump's relationship with my old boss, Nigel Farage as of great importance going forward.

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To that end it is crucial for us, even as long standing and staunch political opponents, to recognise the profound importance of supporting his nomination. This isn’t merely a matter of party allegiance; it speaks to the heart of our national interest, particularly regarding our trade and defence relationships with the United States. The simple fact is that the Prime Minister has to replace the outgoing Ambassador, and looking across the political pygmies surrounding him has reached for possibly the only competent person who retains Labour loyalty, and the mental (and perhaps moral) flexibility to build relationships with the incoming administration.

It is undeniable that Mandelson has formidable experience and undeniable charm. He brings to the table a skill set that is uniquely suited for the role. His previous roles as an UK Cabinet Minister and his tenure within the European Union as one of the Commissioners have equipped him with an intricate understanding of the complexities of international relations. At a time when the UK’s post-Brexit identity is still evolving, we need someone who can navigate the nuances of American politics and foster relationships that are vital for our economic and security interests.

The implications to the UK of UK-US trade relations are vast and multifaceted, particularly in the wake of Brexit and the shifting global economic landscape. The UK seeks to carve out its identity outside of the European Union, establishing a robust trading partnership with the United States has become paramount for economic growth, job creation, and international influence.

A strong UK-US trade relationship can lead to increased access to a market that is one of the largest and most affluent in the world. The United States is a significant destination for British exports, ranging from financial services to pharmaceuticals and technology. By enhancing trade ties, the UK can tap into new opportunities that stimulate its economy.

Moreover, with the US being a key player in global supply chains, the UK stands to benefit from more integrated supply routes, particularly in sectors such as manufacturing and technology. This integration can lead to greater efficiency, innovation, and competitiveness in both markets.

However, these relations come with challenges. The UK must navigate complex regulatory environments and potential trade barriers. Negotiating trade agreements that are mutually beneficial and do not compromise key sectors, such as agriculture and healthcare, is essential. The political landscape in the US, influenced by domestic priorities and international relations, can also affect trade negotiations and outcomes.

Furthermore, the geopolitical implications cannot be overlooked. A strong UK-US trade relationship serves as a counterbalance to rising powers like China. By aligning economically and strategically with the US, the UK can reinforce its position as a global player and advocate for free trade principles.

Ultimately, the strength of UK-US trade relations will significantly impact the UK's economic resilience and its ability to influence global affairs in a post-Brexit world. Cultivating these ties is not just about immediate economic benefits; it is about positioning the UK for long-term success on the international stage.

Of course trade is not anything, and at a time when Trump is demanding far more financial engagement with NATO from its allies, the defence links between the US and the UK will be a major part of Mandelson’s brief.

The UK and the US have long shared not just a language but a commitment to mutual security and defence. This alliance is not a relic of the past; it is a crucial bedrock for navigating the complexities of modern threats, ranging from cyber warfare to state-sponsored aggression, particularly in the Middle East and in the face of Chinese multifaceted aggression.

At its core, a robust UK-US defensive alliance bolsters the security of both nations, creating a formidable front against traditional and emerging threats. With the rise of authoritarian regimes and the proliferation of new technologies that challenge the very fabric of national security, this alliance becomes an essential tool for deterrence. By pooling intelligence resources and military capabilities, the UK and US can enhance their readiness to respond to crises, ensuring that both nations are better protected, and providing a care around anglosphere security.

However, the dynamics of this alliance are not without challenges. The political landscape in the US, with its shifting priorities and domestic pressures, can impact the consistency of this partnership. The UK must navigate these waters carefully to ensure that its interests are not sidelined in favor of other geopolitical alliances. There is nobody in the UK who is better suited to the task of checking those charts than Mandelson.

In a world where security threats are increasingly transnational, the importance of the UK-US defensive alliance cannot be overstated. It is a linchpin in the broader strategy for both nations, a safeguard that provides not just military reassurance but a framework for collaboration that can adapt to the challenges of the 21st century.

Let’s face it: with Donald Trump in the Oval Office, the White House will not be just a symbolic seat of power; it is a critical player in global trade dynamics and defence strategies. The UK cannot afford to have a diplomatic representative who lacks the gravitas or the finesse to engage with American lawmakers and business leaders. Mandelson has proven himself time and again as a master communicator, capable of building alliances and driving negotiations that can benefit the UK.

While it’s true that Mandelson is a Labour politician with pro-European sentiments, we must remember that the UK is not going back to the EU. This is a reality we need to accept and embrace. If Mandelson does his job effectively, his connections and understanding of Europe will not threaten our sovereignty but rather enhance our standing on the world stage. His insights could help forge a new path that balances our historical ties to Europe with a robust, independent relationship with the United States.