The globe-trotting premier has responded to his detractors and has developed an unprecedented rapport with Donald Trump.
In reaction to accusations from adversaries suggesting he allocates an excessive amount of time overseas, Sir Keir Starmer has asserted that his international travels serve the interests of the UK.
Tax increases will be ‘devastating’ – latest in politics
It’s worth noting: during his nearly five-month tenure as Prime Minister, Sir Keir has undertaken 10 international trips and spent 26 days outside the nation.
To his credit, these excursions included five global summits: the UN, G7, G20, COP29 focused on climate issues, and the Commonwealth heads of state.
For a more accessible video player, please use Chrome browser
When Lammy and Starmer met Trump
In the opulent medieval grandeur of Guildhall located in the City of London, Sir Keir emphasized the importance of accruing air miles.
Dressed in white tie and tails – contrasting with Labour predecessor Gordon Brown, who obstinately chose to remain in his lounge suit – he addressed the annual Lord Mayor’s Banquet, a tradition dating back to 1502.
Sir Keir appeared quite polished upon arrival. Pic: PA
US or Europe? Why not embrace both?
As is customary at these glamorous events, where it is typical for the Prime Minister to engage diplomats, business leaders, and City dignitaries regarding global issues, the PM’s address felt like a global journey.
Notably, he initiated his speech with a diplomatic overture directed towards Donald Trump – leaving out any reference to Joe Biden, for the record – and rejected the notion that the UK should opt for one over the other between the US and Europe.
Clement Attlee did not choose, nor did Sir Winston Churchill, he stated. Was he suggesting that he is the successor to Labour’s esteemed Attlee? That was certainly not unexpected. However, Churchill, the revered figure for Conservatives? That was quite the claim!
The national interest, asserted Sir Keir, requires the UK to collaborate with both the US and Europe – explicitly referring to his aspiration of securing trade agreements with each.
The PM reflected on numerous recent foreign excursions. Pic: PA
The Trump affection
However, this was followed by a display of admiration for Trump. Initially, he praised the “special relationship,” which skeptics often argue is more fervently upheld by the UK than by the Americans.
He then recounted how the president-elect had “graciously welcomed me for dinner at Trump Tower.” So gracious, in fact, that Foreign Secretary David Lammy later confessed to having indulged in a second serving of chicken.
However, Sir Keir made this statement: “I informed him that we will invest more profoundly than ever in this transatlantic relationship with our American allies in the forthcoming years.”
Will that captivate Mr. Trump? A few hours earlier in the House of Commons, Nigel Farage had expressed to MPs that the Trump team is “dismayed” by Sir Keir’s agreement regarding the Chagos Islands.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player
Starmer on relationship with Trump
Read further:
What Trump’s victory implies for the UK
PM urged to ‘suck it up’ and host Trump for state visit
A usurped slogan
Following a customary critique of the Conservatives, who “turned their back on the global stage” and left a “disturbing legacy,” he pledged – deliberately invoking the Brexit slogan – to “regain control.”
Yet regarding what appears to be indecision from the government over committing to allocate 2.5% of national output (GDP) for defense, there was no guarantee or timeline – merely a promise to “establish a definitive pathway,” whatever that entails.
Concerning Ukraine, he affirmed support “for as long as necessary… to place Ukraine in the most advantageous position for negotiations” – marking the first instance he has publicly addressed talks with Russia to conclude the conflict.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player
When Lammy and Starmer met Trump
Sir Keir concluded by addressing his adversaries once more, regarding his discussions with China’s President Xi. “We cannot merely ignore these matters,” he asserted. “Engagement is essential.”
His closing remarks were decisive. “Britain is returning,” he proclaimed.
Britain may indeed be on the path to recovery. However, Donald Trump is also in the spotlight once more. Sir Keir unmistakably conveyed to his audience of diplomats and dignitaries that he is eager to foster a cooperative relationship with him.
