Biden forgets name of Australia’s PM at key nuclear summit

Joe Biden appeared to forget the name of the Australian prime minister during a landmark security speech – instead calling him “that fellow Down Under”.

The US president, UK prime minister Boris Johnson and Scott Morrison, the Australian premier, all announced on Wednesday that their nations would share defence and nuclear submarine secrets.

Each gave a short speech about the initiative, which focuses on helping the Australian navy and comes amid growing concerns over China.

But, during the handover from Mr Johnson, Mr Biden appeared to make a blunder and did not say Mr Morrison’s name when thanking him.

Instead, he said: “Thank you Boris”, before pausing – then adding: “And I want to thank that fellow Down Under. Thank you very much, pal. Appreciate it Mr Prime Minister.”