OUTGOING British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has defended the international focus of his premiership, insisting that whoever succeeds him will have to devote just as much attention to global diplomacy as domestic policy in an increasingly unstable world.
Starmer, who announced last month that he would step down after two years in office, dismissed suggestions that Britain's next prime minister could concentrate more heavily on domestic issues.
"There's often this discussion – what's the right balance between dealing with international affairs and dealing with domestic affairs? They're one and the same thing," Starmer said in an interview with the BBC on Friday.
Asked whether a future prime minister could spend less time on diplomacy than he had, he replied: "No, I don't think it is possible."
The outgoing premier has faced criticism from political opponents over the amount of time he dedicated to foreign affairs during his tenure.
Among those expected to contest the leadership is Andy Burnham, who has pledged to place greater emphasis on domestic priorities, including improving living standards, expanding housing, investing in infrastructure and devolving more powers to Britain's regions.
In a video titled "With Keir", published on X on Saturday, Starmer defended his government's international engagement, arguing that Britain had restored its standing on the global stage.
"The fact that now other countries look to us for that leadership is something I'm really proud of having delivered in the two years we've had in government," he said.
Starmer cited Britain's continued support for Ukraine and its participation in international coalitions as among the defining achievements of his administration.
He also highlighted domestic accomplishments, including stabilising the economy, reducing child poverty and improving the National Health Service, as key elements of his government's record ahead of the leadership transition. - July 4, 2026
