Labour’s internal conflict over Lord Mandelson’s proposal to collaborate with Nigel Farage is raising eyebrows as the UK prepares to strengthen its ties with the United States under President-elect Donald Trump. Mandelson, recently appointed as the UK’s ambassador to the US, believes Farage, the leader of Reform UK and longtime ally of Trump, could help forge stronger relations between the two nations.
According to The Telegraph, many Labour MPs are uneasy about this partnership. One MP voiced strong disapproval, stating, "No British government should endorse the values of the Reform Party.“ These concerns highlight the potential reputational risks Labour may face by aligning itself with controversial figures.
Labour insiders indicate Mandelson is prepared to reach out to Farage to dissuade Trump from imposing tariffs which could ignite a trade war. Yet, this approach is not without its critics within the party. Senior members are cautioning against engaging with right-wing figures, fearing it could amplify their influence. A Labour MP pointed out, "Farage may be his soulmate on these issues. But Trump and Musk want to see our great country as a US outpost, doing Washington’s bidding.”
Despite these internal disagreements, the current leadership is backing Mandelson’s appointment. Downing Street officially defended him as a "significant asset" to the transatlantic relationship, even after Chris LaCivita, adviser to Trump, insulted him by calling him “an absolute moron.” This remark, which garnered extensive media attention, reflects the tensions surrounding US-UK diplomatic relations as both nations prepare for the upcoming Trump administration.
When asked if the criticism indicated potential problems with Mandelson's appointment, Sir Keir Starmer’s spokesperson replied, "No… his appointment shows just how seriously we’re taking this relationship.” This statement emphasizes Labour's commitment to nurturing ties with the incoming administration, especially considering Mandelson’s considerable foreign policy and economic expertise.
Yet the road may not be smooth. Mandelson’s past comments about Trump, where he referred to the president-elect as "little short of a white nationalist and racist," could complicate efforts to forge closer ties. The Labour peer’s history includes significant roles as trade secretary and as one of the architects of the New Labour movement under Tony Blair, which had successfully restored Labour to power during the 1990s.
Some Labour MPs urge the party to develop its diplomatic strategy based on Labour values instead of supporting right-wing figures, refraining from providing platforms for parties like Reform UK. One MP articulated the pressing need for diplomacy rooted firmly in the party’s principles after “14 years of retreating from the world stage.”
Looking forward, Mandelson expressed his honor at being named ambassador and acknowledged the challenges present during what he termed "dangerous times". He stated he is committed to ensuring optimal UK-US relations as he prepares to take on the role early next year. His trade experience is seen as pivotal as the UK navigates the uncertainties surrounding potential tariffs from the Trump administration.
With Donald Trump’s historic win and the shifting dynamics of UK-US relations, Labour's strategy will depend heavily on how well it balances internal opposition with necessary external partnerships. Labour’s ability to adapt to these looming challenges—and the internal debates catalyzed by Mandelson’s proposed collaboration with Farage—will undoubtedly shape the future of the party and its stance toward transatlantic relations.
