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America has publicly voiced its concern about the consequences of Britain leaving the European Union, stating that London's "voice" within the EU is "critical to the United States".
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Mr Gordon stressed the importance that Washington attaches to Britain's current position as a leading member Photo: GETTY
Philip Gordon, the US assistant secretary responsible for European affairs, said that Britain's membership of the EU was "in the American interest".
His remarks came as David Cameron prepares to deliver a speech on Europe later this month. The Prime Minister is expected to promise to renegotiate Britain’s membership and then put the new terms to a referendum. Many Conservatives, including some Cabinet ministers, believe that a ‘No’ vote would mean Britain leaving the EU, although Mr Cameron says he opposes an exit.
Mr Gordon, the senior US diplomat with direct responsibility for relations with the EU and its member states, said that it was for the "British government and the British people to define their relationship with the European Union".
However, he stressed the importance that Washington attaches to Britain's current position as a leading member. "Britain has been such a special partner of the United States – that shares our values, shares our interests, has significant resources to bring to the table. More than most others, its voice within the European Union is essential and critical to the United States," said Mr Gordon.
"There are a lot of inevitably technical and detailed issues that have to be sorted out for every member of the European Union as it moves forward, but as a broad and general theme, we value a strong UK voice in a strong European Union."
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