Emily Thornberry on Corbyn, Starmer, Trump - and a world in turmoil
Dec 13, 2024
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Emily Thornberry, a prominent Labour MP and chair of the Foreign Affairs Select Committee, delves into her journey through the party's tumultuous politics since 2005. She candidly discusses her experiences with the leadership of Corbyn and Starmer, and the current global challenges, including the crisis in Syria and Trump's potential return. Thornberry also examines the UK's response to the Gaza crisis and the complexities of post-Brexit diplomacy, emphasizing the need for authenticity in political leadership amid a rapidly evolving landscape.
Emily Thornberry's journey in politics illustrates resilience as she navigated various leadership challenges within the Labour Party since 2005.
As chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee, Thornberry underscores the complexity of the Syrian crisis, advocating for inclusive governance respecting minority rights.
Thornberry emphasizes the importance of transparent communication and early engagement with farmers to effectively support Labour's policy initiatives under Keir Starmer.
Deep dives
Emily Thornberry's Political Journey
Emily Thornberry reflects on her extensive political career, which began when she entered Parliament in 2005. Growing up in a challenging environment shaped her views, as her family faced financial hardships after her father's departure. Her early experiences fueled her commitment to the Labour Party, where she has served for nearly two decades, navigating through various leadership changes. Despite experiencing setbacks, such as her resignation during Ed Miliband’s leadership, she has managed to remain a prominent figure in British politics.
Current Global Affairs and Challenges
As the newly appointed chair of the Foreign Affairs Select Committee, Thornberry addresses major geopolitical challenges, including the ongoing crisis in Syria. She emphasizes the necessity of recognizing the complexities of the Syrian society and warns against hastily legitimizing regimes without considering their governance structures. Thornberry highlights the delicate nature of international relations, pointing out the diverse factions and interests involved in Syria, and stresses the need for an inclusive government that respects minority rights. Her insights reflect her awareness of the intricate balance required in foreign policy decision-making.
Concerns Regarding Israel and Gaza
Thornberry expresses concern over the Israeli government's handling of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. She critiques the British government's response, noting delays in imposing necessary sanctions on Israeli settlers, even while recognizing recent progress. Thornberry affirms the importance of a robust stance against arms sales to Israel, which could be used for aggression. Her comments underscore the need for more decisive actions and quicker responses to humanitarian issues, advocating for stronger diplomatic measures.
Reflections on Leadership and Political Strategy
While discussing current leadership under Keir Starmer, Thornberry acknowledges both achievements and areas for improvement within the Labour government. She stresses the importance of clear communication with the public, cautioning that the government sometimes appears hesitant or embarrassed about its policies. Thornberry emphasizes that establishing a strong relationship with farmers and addressing their concerns early on is vital to gaining support for new policies. By being transparent and engaging with different sectors, she believes the government can create more effective and accepted policies.
Looking to the Future: Two-State Solution and Global Relations
Thornberry advocates for a two-state solution as the best path forward for lasting peace in the Middle East, despite the current political landscape presenting challenges. She remains cautiously optimistic, even suggesting that Donald Trump's desire for a peace deal might create unforeseen opportunities for negotiation. Emphasizing the necessity of sustained dialogue and flexibility, she suggests engaging Gulf nations as potential partners. Her long-standing commitment to Middle Eastern issues showcases her strategic thinking about international relations and peacemaking.
Emily Thornberry is one of Labour's great survivors. An MP since 2005, she stuck with the party through 14 long years of opposition - serving in the shadow cabinets of Ed Miliband, Jeremy Corbyn and Keir Starmer. Never afraid to speak her mind, she's one of the party's most relaxed communicators, so why didn't Starmer bring her into government? On the backbenches, she's become chair of the foreign affairs committee - a powerful role scrutinising the work of the foreign secretary and Britain on the world stage. So with a revolution in Syria, Donald Trump poised to return to the White House, and populism on the rise in Europe, what better time to sit down with her to talk about her remarkable career. She speaks candidly to Lewis about her clashes with Corbyn's leadership team, Starmer's stuttering start and her journey towards the top of British politics.
