UK-US Discussions: Reducing International Tension

Lord Rogan Excerpts

Wednesday 21st October 2026 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent (Lab)]

The noble Baroness gives me more authority than I have; I wish I had slightly more, but I do not. However, I will speak to colleagues about outstanding appointments.

[Lord Rogan (UUP)]

My Lords, I am sure that many in this House will have read the characteristically astute analysis offered on Monday by the noble Lord, Lord Hague, of the ever-increasing threat posed to Taiwan by Donald Trump’s recklessness and obsession with pleasing both Xi and Putin. As the noble Lord, Lord Hague, rightly pointed out, the problems faced by Taiwan could heighten significantly when the three leaders get together at the Asia-Pacific summit in China just over a month from now. Can the Minister assure the House that His Majesty’s Government are making their views known forcefully to the Trump Administration, and that the United Kingdom will not simply stand aside and allow these three men to override freedom and democracy, not only in Ukraine but in Taiwan?

[Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent (Lab)]

The noble Lord raises a very important point. As ever, the commentary from the noble Lord, Lord Hague, was insightful and considered. The UK’s long-standing position on Taiwan remains unchanged. The UK maintains that the Taiwan issue should be settled peacefully by people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait through constructive dialogue and without the threat or use of force or coercion. We have been consistent in restating this, alongside our G7 partners.