'NOT up for negotiation!' Donald Trump's Falklands sovereignty threat shut down by James Cartlidge

Georgia Pearce
Fri, 24 Apr 2026 13:29:27 +0000

James Cartlidge has firmly stated Britain will not entertain any discussions over the sovereignty of the Falkland Islands, speaking to GB News amid growing unease about recent American commentary.

"I think we just have to be very clear as a country that the sovereignty of the Falklands is not up for negotiation," the Shadow Defence Secretary declared, noting concerns following remarks about Greenland.

The senior Conservative figure invoked Britain's military triumph in 1982, describing it as "an incredible victory for the British armed forces and for our nation".

He made his comments while standing at Portsmouth, with the aircraft carrier and Type 45 destroyers visible behind him.

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The Conservative frontbencher stressed his party's absolute commitment to the islanders' right to determine their own future.

"As far as we're concerned, as a party, absolutely no question of that self-determination of those people on the Falkland Islands. We will stand by them through whatever comes," he said.

While expressing concern about recent developments, Mr Cartlidge acknowledged the enduring significance of transatlantic relations, describing America as historically "a very close ally of ours" and insisting this partnership must continue.

He called for mutual respect between the two nations, asserting that while he respects the US President's position, Washington must equally recognise Britain's passionate belief in the Falkland Islanders' self-determination.

Mr Cartlidge also raised alarm over potential cuts to Royal Navy vessel orders, revealing a written answer from Labour defence ministers indicated frigate numbers could be reduced from eight to six.

"It's concerning that in this written answer, they couldn't guarantee that the order will remain the same," he said, adding decisions remained "subject to the defence investment plan, which has been delayed for months".

The shadow minister contrasted this with the previous Conservative Government's record, noting they had commissioned 13 highly capable frigates, primarily being built in Scotland, comprising Type 26 and Type 31 vessels, alongside an export agreement with Norway.

Cartlidge urged restraint when interpreting recent statements, noting the US President communicates through Truth Social and public declarations, and that such positions can shift.

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"We should be slightly cautious whether this has been leaked and what it actually amounts to," he advised.

Mr Cartlidge made clear that Britain's stance remains immovable.

"What will not change is our commitment to the Falkland Islands," he affirmed.

The shadow Defence Secretary drew parallels with his party's position on the Chagos Islands, emphasising sovereignty represents a fundamental Conservative principle.

"Sovereignty matters, it's in our DNA, we believe in it," he declared.

The row was sparked after a leaked Pentagon memo suggested the US could pull support for UK sovereignty as punishment for its response to Iran.

The Prime Minister's spokesman insisted the UK's "long-standing" stance on the British territory remains "unchanged".

The spokesman said: "We could not be clearer about the UK’s position on the Falkland Islands. It’s long-standing. It’s unchanged."