In a press conference on March 15, 2024, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer addressed escalating tensions with the United States, specifically regarding Donald Trump‘s recent trade threats. Starmer firmly rejected Trump’s proposal to impose tariffs on the UK and reiterated that the future of Greenland should be determined solely by its people and the Kingdom of Denmark.
Starmer’s remarks came in response to Trump’s suggestion of punishing allies, which he described as “completely wrong.” Emphasizing the importance of alliances, Starmer stated, “Alliances endure because they’re built on respect and partnership, not pressure.” He highlighted that since 1945, these partnerships have been a cornerstone of American strength.
Starmer’s Commitment to Calm Diplomacy
During the press conference, Starmer stressed that a “tariff war is in no one’s interests.” He declared, “We have not got to that stage,” indicating that his primary focus is preventing further escalation. While the European Union is moving forward with a £78 billion retaliation package, Starmer suggested that the UK response would remain discreet, emphasizing the need for private discussions rather than public confrontations.
Starmer refrained from endorsing any drastic measures, such as cancelling the forthcoming state visit by the King. He expressed confidence that military action would not be pursued by Trump, advocating instead for “calm discussion.” This approach aligns with Starmer’s belief in the value of strong US-UK cooperation in areas such as defence, intelligence, and security.
A Rejection of Performance Politics
Starmer’s diplomatic stance also included a critique of politicians who leverage crises for public spectacle. He dismissed the “performance politics” approach, which he finds unproductive. By avoiding direct attacks on Trump, Starmer demonstrated his commitment to fostering a constructive dialogue, focusing on the long-term relationship between the two nations.
Echoing the sentiments of former shadow chancellor Ed Balls, who categorized politicians as either “amplifiers” or “dampers,” Starmer firmly positioned himself as a “damper.” His preference for quiet deliberation reflects the philosophy once encapsulated in a quote by former Prime Minister Harold Macmillan: “Quiet calm deliberation disentangles every knot.”
As the political landscape continues to shift, Starmer’s hope is that engaging in private discussions will yield more substantial results than public disputes. His approach seeks to navigate the complexities of international relations with a steady hand, prioritizing diplomacy over confrontation.
