Starmer defends 'biggest UK foreign policy shift since Brexit'

Sir Keir accused opposition politicians of offering a ‘corrosive, inward-looking attitude’ on international affairs (Stefan Rousseau/PA) Stefan Rousseau

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has defended his internationalist foreign policy approach as «the biggest shift in British foreign policy since Brexit», rejecting critics who accuse him of neglecting domestic issues for global summits. In his annual Guildhall speech in the City of London on Monday evening, he argued that Britain must confront a «chaotic world» that is «more dangerous and unstable than at any point for a generation».

Starmer dismissed what he called a «corrosive, inward-looking attitude» marked by «grievance rather than hope» and «a declinist vision of a lesser Britain». He declared: «In these times, we deliver for Britain by looking outward with renewed purpose and pride, not by shrinking back. In these times, internationalism is patriotism.»

The Prime Minister has faced criticism from opponents over the amount of time he spends at international summits since coming to power last year. He has secured deals with the US, India and the EU, and led a coalition supporting Ukraine.

Brexit Legacy

Starmer addressed the Brexit vote as a «fair, democratic expression» he would «always respect», but criticized how it was «sold and delivered». He said it was «simply wrong» that «wild promises were made to the British people and not fulfilled». The government is «still dealing with the consequences today», he added.

China Relations

On China policy, Starmer rejected a «binary choice» between engagement and security. He contrasted the «golden age» of relations under David Cameron with the «ice age» under more recent Conservative prime ministers, calling both approaches «a dereliction of duty».

«This is not a question of balancing economic and security considerations. We don't trade off security in one area, for a bit more economic access somewhere else», Starmer said. «Protecting our security is non-negotiable – our first duty. But by taking tough steps to keep us secure, we enable ourselves to co-operate in other areas.»

He acknowledged China presents «national security threats to the UK» but remains «a defining force in technology, trade and global governance». The government will protect interests in defence, AI and critical infrastructure, but in areas «where there is no significant risk», businesses will get «the confidence, clarity and support they need to win these opportunities».

The comments follow controversy earlier this year when a trial of two alleged Chinese spies collapsed, prompting claims the government deliberately undermined the case to preserve relations with China. Ministers firmly denied these allegations.

Note: This article was created with Artificial Intelligence (AI).