The UK Deputy Prime Minister has rebuffed comments made by JD Vance, the US senator and Donald Trump’s running mate, suggesting that under Labour, the UK might become the first “truly Islamist” country with nuclear weapons.
JD Vance, recently selected as Trump’s vice presidential candidate, made these remarks at the National Conservatism conference in Washington DC. Vance, while speaking at the event, humorously speculated that the UK could become the first Islamist nation to acquire nuclear capabilities, following Labour’s electoral success.
These comments echo a common sentiment among certain right-wing political circles in the US, which believe that Islamist influence is growing in European countries with significant Muslim populations.
Angela Rayner, in an interview with ITV, dismissed Vance’s remarks, stating that she does not recognize his portrayal of the UK. She added that she looks forward to potentially meeting him and Trump should they win the upcoming US election.
Rayner expressed pride in Labour’s recent electoral victories, highlighting the party’s broad appeal across diverse communities and its commitment to governing for all of Britain and collaborating with international allies.
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Exchequer Secretary James Murray also criticized Vance’s comments during an appearance on Sky News. Murray emphasized the UK’s pride in its diversity and the new government’s dedication to national security and economic growth, questioning the basis of Vance’s statements.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy has actively worked to build strong relations with Trump’s allies, including Vance. Lammy, who met Vance during a visit to the US, described him as a friend and acknowledged some shared views on defense expenditure and NATO.
Lammy has spoken about Trump being misunderstood regarding NATO and expressed a belief that there could be common ground with a Trump administration. However, Vance’s selection as Trump’s running mate could complicate Labour’s diplomatic efforts if Trump returns to power.
JD Vance, a former critic turned supporter of Trump, is known for his isolationist stance, particularly regarding aid to Ukraine, contrasting sharply with Labour’s commitment to providing substantial support to Ukraine.
Despite Vance’s controversial comments, Labour officials believe their diplomatic engagement with Trump’s team is yielding positive results. Labour insiders highlight a recent conversation between Sir Keir Starmer and Trump, following an assassination attempt, as evidence of constructive dialogue.
Andrew Bowie, the shadow veterans minister, firmly rejected Vance’s claim about Labour creating an “Islamist country.” Speaking to Times Radio, Bowie acknowledged his disagreements with Labour on many issues but found Vance’s remarks offensive and unrepresentative of his Labour colleagues.
