The UK Attorney General, Lord Richard Hermer, affirmed in a BBC interview that adherence to international law is central to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s foreign policy. He emphasized the government’s commitment to global leadership on international law issues, citing recent trade deals with the US, India, and the EU as evidence of this approach.
Lord Hermer also defended Starmer’s strategy of maintaining a positive relationship with President Trump, prioritizing long-term stability over short-term political gains. These comments, part of a broader BBC Radio 4 interview for the upcoming program Starmer’s Stormy Year, precede recent speculation about his legal advice on the Israel-Iran conflict.
His statements offer insight into the government’s approach to complex diplomatic challenges. This is particularly relevant given the government’s recent refusal to comment on the legality of US strikes on Iran, citing it as a matter outside the purview of British ministers.
Lord Hermer’s interpretation of international law has been a recurring point of debate during Starmer’s premiership. When asked if international law represented an absolute limit for the Prime Minister in foreign policy, Hermer stated that upholding international law is essential for improving the lives of UK citizens and securing national interests.
He highlighted successful trade agreements and migration deals as direct results of the UK’s commitment to international law, arguing that trustworthiness and adherence to agreements are crucial for global partnerships. He asserted that acting in good faith within international law overwhelmingly serves the national interest.
Regarding UK-US relations, Hermer advocated for maintaining a strong and respectful relationship, prioritizing long-term strategic benefits over short-term political expediency, contrasting this with what he described as a “Love Actually” approach of prioritizing short-term political gain.
He recently expressed regret for past comments comparing criticisms of international law to rhetoric from 1930s Germany, a statement that drew criticism from the Conservatives, who called for his dismissal. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch criticized Hermer’s interview, asserting that his role does not extend to conducting foreign policy or making such comparisons.
Sign up for our Politics Essential newsletter for in-depth political analysis and updates.
Labour MPs’ challenge over benefits cuts is perhaps the gravest crisis in the PM’s time in office so far.
MPs including senior Labour figures sign an amendment that could sink the welfare reform bill.
Scotland could be in the sweet spot for elements of the strategy across all the sectors targeted for support.
The Labour minister says his government’s 10-year strategy will help create jobs and reduce energy bills.
Starmer maintains diplomacy is the answer but Trump has so far chosen a different path, our political editor writes.