Aust would prefer no Brexit: Bishop

Julie Bishop has told British Prime Minister David Cameron Australia would prefer the UK remained part of the European Union.

Australia would prefer the UK remained a part of the EU, Foreign Minister Julie Bishop says. (AAP)

Australia would prefer the UK remained a part of the European Union, Foreign Minister Julie Bishop says.

Ms Bishop says she informed British Prime Minister David Cameron of Australia's view during a meeting in Washington where she is attending the Nuclear Security Summit, ahead of Britain's June 23 referendum on whether it will remain a member of the EU.

"The EU is a significant trading partner for us - a strong UK as part of the European Union would be in Australia's interests," she told reporters in Washington on Saturday.