‘We should not be at the mercy of events abroad’ – Starmer
Starmer Calls for Resilience Amid Global Uncertainty
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has urged the UK to build greater resilience against a world marked by “sudden upheavals” and external disruptions, emphasizing the need to shield the nation from the fallout of international crises. In a recent article for The Guardian, he argued that the country must be “remade” to ensure stability, with citizens “not left vulnerable to global shocks.” This comes as he prepares for a three-day diplomatic mission to the Gulf, where he will engage with regional partners to address ongoing tensions.
Global Crises and Economic Impact
Starmer’s remarks were framed against the backdrop of a strained ceasefire in the Iranian conflict, which has raised concerns about the strait’s closure. During a phone call with US President Donald Trump on Thursday, the prime minister highlighted the urgency of securing “practical measures” to restore shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for energy exports. Downing Street stated the conversation focused on mitigating the economic strain on the UK, including rising petrol and food costs.
“I’m fed up with the fact that families across the country see their bills fluctuate due to the actions of Putin or Trump.”
Starmer reiterated that the past two months have underscored the importance of “energy independence,” criticizing the reliance on foreign energy sources. He also called out the impact of geopolitical events on the cost of living, asserting that the UK’s economic resilience is key to navigating a volatile global landscape.
Historical Context of Instability
In his piece, Starmer cited a series of crises that have shaped the nation over the past two decades, including the 2008 financial crash, Brexit, and the pandemic. He noted that Westminster’s usual approach has been to “manage the immediate crisis, apply temporary fixes, and then strive to restore the previous order.” Starmer vowed that this strategy would shift, positioning the Iran conflict as a pivotal moment for long-term preparedness.
He outlined policies such as renewable energy investment, stronger labor protections, and reforming the two-child benefit cap as tools to foster resilience. “Resilience is what grants us control,” he said. “Without it, we are constantly upended by events beyond our borders.”
Political Reactions and Criticisms
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper echoed Starmer’s concerns in a Mansion House speech, warning that instability has become a recurring theme. “The Iran crisis is not an isolated incident—it’s part of a pattern that has impacted the UK three times in six years,” she remarked. “Turbulence is now the standard, and the new era began long before the current conflict.”
“Instability and volatility are becoming increasingly chronic. Turbulence is the new normal.”
Conservative Chairman Kevin Hollinrake challenged Starmer’s focus on resilience, questioning his decision to limit North Sea drilling and delay welfare reforms. “You can’t build a strong economy by sidelining British oil and gas workers or leaving millions reliant on benefits,” he argued.
Calum Miller of the Liberal Democrats supported the call for resilience but criticized the lack of clarity on “the most pressing strategic challenge.” He urged the government to prioritize European alliances, citing declining trust in a Trump-led America. Reform UK’s spokesperson echoed this sentiment, advocating for energy self-sufficiency and border control to “avoid being dictated by global crises.”
“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.”
Green Party leader Zack Polanski praised Starmer for recognizing the limits of US security guarantees, though he accused the government of lacking a concrete plan. “Energy bills are soaring, inequality is widening, and this administration only addresses the surface,” Polanski added.
