Former US ambassador Lord Kim Darroch has advised Prime Minister Andy Burnham that personal chemistry will be crucial in his first meeting with Donald Trump. Darroch said Trump is unlike other leaders, prefers informal conversation and banter over a fixed agenda, and may judge Burnham on how quickly and confidently he responds.

Darroch expects discussion of immigration, North Sea energy and defence spending, while Sir Malcolm Rifkind urged Burnham to combine humour with firmness on issues including the Falklands and Northern Ireland. The meeting may receive limited attention because it coincides with Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit, while Burnham’s sanctions on Israeli settlements are not expected to dominate the talks.