Home secretary flying to US for talks on security

Sajid Javid will highlight the threats from international terrorism and Russia in his first meetings with senior figures in Donald Trump’s administration since becoming home secretary.

The Cabinet minister is flying to Washington for talks with a number of high-ranking US officials.

He is expected to stress the US and UK have a joint interest in tackling a range of security and crime issues.

Cementing the leading role of both countries in tackling international terrorism, serious and organised crime, and the threat of Russia will top the agenda, the Home Office said.

In the wake of the Salisbury attack, Mr Javid will seek a co-ordinated approach against “hostile state activity”, including targeting illicit finance and cyber attacks.

Britain has pointed the finger at Russia over the poisoning of Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia. Moscow has repeatedly denied responsibility.

Mr Javid will also brief his US counterparts on the Government’s updated counter-terrorism strategy, which is expected to be published next week.

Powers available to police and security services were reviewed after Britain suffered five attacks last year.

Reports suggest the strategy, known as Contest, will set out proposals to share information about suspects more widely and introduce longer jail terms for some terror offences.

Mr Javid will also stress the need for international collaboration on issues such as aviation security and terrorist content online.

The home secretary is due to hold discussions with Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen, Attorney General Jeff Sessions, Director of the National Counterintelligence and Security Centre Bill Evanina, and John F Clark, president and CEO of the National Centre for Missing and Exploited Children.

Mr Javid was appointed home secretary in April following the resignation of Amber Rudd.

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Boris Johnson