24/09/25
Stoke-on-Trent Pottery Heads to The White House
Trump Gifted a Piece of Stoke-on-Trent During a State Visit
This week, Stoke-on-Trent ceramics took pride of place among the gifts presented by the Prime Minister to the President and First Lady of the United States during their state visit.
Handmade English bone china mugs and baubles, created by Longton-based designer Susan Rose and depicting Chequers House, were included in the Prime Minister’s gift hamper. For us both, this is a moment of real pride – and for Allison, representing Longton where Susan Rose China is based, it is especially meaningful. It is recognition not only of Susan Rose China’s artistry, but also of the generations of craftspeople who have built Stoke-on-Trent’s reputation as the world capital of ceramics.
To see something made in the Potteries handed directly to the President of the United States is a reminder that what happens in our kilns, workshops, and studios resonates far beyond our city boundaries. It is a powerful symbol of what Stoke-on-Trent continues to contribute to Britain’s national story.
These gifts matter because it shows the country – and the world – that Stoke-on-Trent is not only part of Britain’s past, but it is central to its present and future. Choosing a local business sends the message that regional industries count, that small and medium businesses matter, and that the creative economy built in cities like ours is part of what makes Britain distinctive.
And it comes at just the right time. Only last week, Stoke-on-Trent City Council launched the Potters’ Pledge — a promise that the council will prioritise buying local ceramics. It’s a simple but important step. If we want the world to value our craftsmanship, we must show that we value it ourselves. The pledge will back local businesses, keep jobs here in Stoke-on-Trent, and make sure that when our city presents ceramic gifts at civic events, they are made in the Potteries, by our own people.
As MPs for Stoke-on-Trent, we have been determined to make sure this story is told in Parliament as well. Together, we have:
· Spoken up repeatedly about the need to protect and promote the ceramics industry as a vital part of our economy and culture – both tableware and advanced – by pressing for its recognition as a foundational industry for the first time in the recent Industrial Strategy. Without our ceramics, aerospace, defence and many other industries would suffer.
· Backed Stoke-on-Trent’s successful bid for World Craft City status – recognition that only strengthens our international standing.
· Pressed ministers to provide more support for small businesses, apprenticeships, and skills training so that the next generation of Stokies can continue our city’s proud traditions.
· Stood side-by-side with the GMB and other trade unions to stand up for our pottery workers.
· Championed Stoke-on-Trent’s case for greater investment in heritage, culture, and industry – so that our past becomes the foundation for future growth.
A piece of our city now sits in the hands of the President of the United States. That is something every Stokie can be proud of. And now, through the Potters’ Pledge, every civic gift given by our city will tell that same story – that Stoke-on-Trent is and always will be the world capital of ceramics.
We know there is more to do. Recognition alone will not safeguard jobs or grow our economy. But this week shows that when we speak up for our city, when we back our industries, and when we celebrate what makes Stoke-on-Trent unique, we can achieve real results.
As MPs, we will keep working to ensure our city’s voice is heard, our industries are supported, and our people are celebrated. Stoke-on-Trent has always been a place of world-class craft, skill and pride. Now the world is being reminded of it once again — and that’s something we should all share in together.