He said the UK and US had shaped the “great technological innovations of the last century” and now had the chance to do the same in the 21st Century.

“Artificial intelligence could cure cancer. That could be a moon shot for our age, and that’s how we’ll keep delivering for our people,” he said.

Trump has repeatedly threatened to impose tariffs – import taxes – on many of its allies, including 25% on goods made in the European Union.

He also ordered a 25% import tax on all steel and aluminium entering the US – which could hit the UK.

Asked if Sir Keir had tried to dissuade the president from ordering tariffs against the UK, Trump said: “He tried.”

“He was working hard I tell you that. He earned whatever the hell they pay him over there.

“I think there’s a very good chance that in the case of these two great, friendly countries, I think we could very well end up with a real trade deal where the tariffs wouldn’t be necessary. We’ll see.”