British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has so far prioritised domestic policy, but with global instability growing, he must soon define a clear and coherent foreign policy for the United Kingdom.
Since taking office, Prime Minister Andy Burnham has focused heavily on domestic affairs. Yet at a time of widespread global disruption, the editorial board of The Guardian argues that he must now define Britain's place in the world and develop a consistent foreign policy strategy.
The continuity in foreign policy is notable. Burnham's approach appears largely to follow that of his predecessor, Sir Keir Starmer. Red lines regarding the European Union remain — the UK will not rejoin the single market or customs union. Relations with the United States are pragmatic rather than overly warm; Burnham has shown little enthusiasm for courting Donald Trump, though strong security and defence ties ensure engagement continues. New Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband has opened a working dialogue with his US counterpart Marco Rubio.
Support for Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression remains a bipartisan position that has survived multiple changes of government in London. Efforts to rebuild functional relations with European neighbours also predate the current administration, beginning with the Windsor Framework agreed under Rishi Sunak.
The constraints of the Brexit settlement limit the scope for dramatic foreign policy shifts. Burnham has accepted the parameters established by previous governments, leaving him limited room for innovation. With domestic issues currently taking precedence, the prime minister has not yet articulated a distinct global vision. However, with global volatility showing no sign of abating, an international crisis may soon force foreign policy to the top of his agenda.
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