Outgoing UK PM Starmer Urges Successor to Spend as Much Time on International Affairs as He Did

(London, July 4, CNA, Reuters) Outgoing British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has stated that whoever succeeds him as prime minister must dedicate as much time to international crises and diplomacy as he has. He clearly disagrees with the notion that the next British leader might focus more on domestic issues.

Reuters reported that Starmer (Keir Starmer), who announced his resignation in June after only two years in office, faced criticism from some opponents for spending too much time on foreign affairs.

Starmer's most likely successor, former Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham, who was recently elected as a Member of Parliament, has pledged to focus on domestic priorities such as living standards, housing, and infrastructure if he becomes prime minister, and to devolve more power to local regions.

However, Starmer stated in an interview with the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) yesterday that Britain is facing an increasingly turbulent world, and that foreign and domestic affairs cannot be separated.

He said, "People often discuss what the right balance is between dealing with international affairs and dealing with domestic affairs. (But) they are the same thing."

When asked if a British prime minister could spend less time on foreign affairs than he did, Starmer replied, "No, I don't think that's possible."

Starmer also released a short video on the social media platform X today titled "With Keir," defending his focus on international affairs during his premiership.

In the video, Starmer said that Britain has restored its global standing. He also listed Britain's support for Ukraine and its participation in international alliances among his key achievements.

On the other hand, Starmer also pointed to some of his major domestic achievements, including stabilizing the economy, reducing child poverty, and improving the National Health Service. (Compiled by Chang Cheng-chiu) 1150704

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