‘We should not be at the mercy of events abroad’ – Starmer
We should not be at the mercy of events abroad
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has urged the UK to bolster its resilience in the face of a “volatile and dangerous” global landscape, where conflicts and crises often disrupt stability. In an article for The Guardian, he emphasized the importance of long-term planning to reshape the nation, ensuring citizens are not left vulnerable to external developments. During his recent three-day visit to the Gulf, he met with regional leaders, including Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Jeddah and officials from the UAE, Bahrain, and Qatar. The trip coincides with growing tensions over a fragile ceasefire in the Iranian conflict, with disputes arising about its application to Lebanon.
Addressing energy dependence
Starmer highlighted the economic consequences of global instability, particularly the strain on living costs in the UK. He criticized the fluctuation of energy prices, linking it to the actions of foreign leaders like Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump. “Families across the country face rising and falling bills due to decisions made overseas,” he stated, calling for a shift toward energy independence. His remarks followed a phone call with Trump, during which they discussed restoring shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, currently blocked by the conflict.
“I’m fed up with the fact that families across the country see their bills go up and down on energy, businesses’ bills go up and down on energy because of the actions of Putin or Trump.”
Historical context of crises
In his Guardian piece, Starmer noted that the UK has endured a series of crises over the past two decades, from the 2008 financial crash to Brexit and the pandemic. He argued that Westminster’s usual approach has been to address each issue as it arises, offering temporary solutions before attempting to restore the status quo. “This time, it will be different,” he insisted, framing the Iran conflict as a pivotal moment requiring stronger resilience.
“Because resilience is what gives us control. Without it, we are constantly pushed off course by events beyond our borders.”
Policy priorities for stability
Starmer proposed policies to strengthen the UK’s preparedness, including investments in renewable energy, labor protections, and reforms to the two-child benefit cap. He stressed that these measures would help the country navigate future global turbulence. Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper reinforced this stance, noting that the Iran crisis is part of a pattern: “Instability and volatility are becoming increasingly chronic, and turbulence is the new normal.”
“The new reality we face did not begin with the war in Iran, nor will it end with a reopened strait.”
Political responses to Starmer’s agenda
Conservative Chairman Kevin Hollinrake challenged Starmer’s focus on resilience, questioning his support for North Sea drilling and reluctance to address welfare reform. “You cannot build a resilient economy by turning your back on British oil and gas workers,” he argued. Liberal Democrat Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Calum Miller echoed concerns about the US, urging the government to prioritize European alliances. Reform UK and the Green Party also weighed in, with the latter emphasizing the need to end reliance on fossil fuels and assert European security partnerships.
“Starmer is finally waking up to a reality Greens have been raising for years, and been attacked by him for – we cannot rely on the US for security, we need European security partnerships.”
“If we don’t want to be at the mercy of global crises, the answer is obvious: Use our own energy, control our borders and put the British people first.”
“Energy bills are soaring, the gap between rich and poor grows, and this government tinkers at the edges.”
