Washington DC, June 1: United States President Donald Trump has on Saturday said former British foreign minister Boris Johnson would be an “excellent” leader to lead the United Kingdom’s Conservative Party as the next prime minister.
According to BBC news reports, during an interview with the Sun just ahead of the US president’s scheduled visit to the UK, Trump stated: “I think Boris would do a very good job.”
Trump said other candidates running for the prime ministerial post in the UK have sought his backing, adding, “I could help anybody.”
His comments have come as UK home secretary Sajid Javid became the very-first contender to claim he was ready to leave the European Union (EU) without any agreement.
Javid has ruled out any referendum, revoking Article 50 to end the Brexit process or an early general election.
As Britain braces for the US president’s visit to the UK, Trump said he had paid close attention to the contest of the Tory leadership, which will choose Britain’s next prime minister.
Trump said: “I actually have studied it very hard. I know the different players. But I think Boris would do a very good job. I think he would be excellent. I like him. I have always liked him.
He added, “I don’t know that he is going to be chosen but I think he is a very good guy, a very talented person.”
Moreover, Trump refused to disclose names, but stated “other people” had also asked him for the endorsement, adding, “I could help anybody if I endorse them.”
Trump said he also looked favourably on Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt, telling the Sun: “Yup, I like him.”
The US president is scheduled to arrive in the UK on Monday to address a state visit, during the course he will hold meetings with members of the Royal Family, including Duke of Sussex and the Queen.