Unity at home and abroad matters more than ever

Hello, I hope you’re all doing well following a lovely Easter break. Like many of you, I spent some time with family despite the ever-growing worry of the volatility in global affairs.

Much of the world’s focus in recent weeks has been on Iran, which remains a deeply concerning and ever escalating situation. At the time of writing, President Trump’s decision to blockade the Strait of Hormuz marks a significant development with global consequences.

This is not just about geopolitics or trade routes. It’s about people. Decisions taken thousands of miles away have real impacts on livelihoods here at home, and that human cost cannot be forgotten.

As your Member of Parliament, engaging with foreign policy is well within my remit. We are a major global player. Events abroad shape our lives right here in Burnley which is why it matters I talk about it.

We’re already seeing that impact. Rising fuel prices, increased costs for businesses, and uncertainty for families with ties to the region all bring these events closer to home.

It also serves as a reminder that judgement in politics matters. At a time when calm and careful decision-making is needed, one Reform representative said we “shouldn’t rule out boots on the ground”. That kind of rhetoric risks dragging Britain further into conflict when the priority must be de-escalation and diplomacy.

In times like these, I believe it is important to speak plainly about leadership. The rhetoric coming from the US President in recent days has been illegal, deranged, and deeply troubling. Escalation – whether in words or actions – only risks making a difficult situation worse.

Peace in the Middle East will not be easy to achieve, but we must not stop trying. I echo the Prime Minister in saying a lasting resolution will require patience, cooperation, and serious engagement from all sides.

Closer to Europe, we have also seen significant political change in Hungary. The recent election result marks an important moment for democracy, and I welcome what it represents. The end of an authoritarian government through democratic means is a symbol of hope that will hit home worldwide.

All of this reflects our changing and uncertain world and while I know many voted for the UK to leave the European Union 10 years ago, it’s clear that cooperation with our European allies and neighbours remains important. Not least on security, with the geopolitics of America and the Far East changing seemingly daily.

This is not about revisiting old arguments, but about recognising the need for strong partnerships in challenging times.

In an increasingly unstable world, unity at home and abroad matters more than ever.

As ever, if you have any issues reach out to me at [email protected] or attend a drop in with my team at my office between 10am-2pm Monday-Thursday.