British Author Links UK's Global Isolation to Internal Disdain for History
Daniel Hannan argues that a pervasive negativity among British elites has damaged the nation's standing internationally, leading to a precarious and friendless position.
A prominent commentator has asserted that the United Kingdom's current global isolation stems from a deep-seated disdain for its own history among its cultural and intellectual elites. Daniel Hannan, Director of the Institute of Economic Affairs, posits that this internal negativity has eroded the nation's international reputation, leaving it "precarious and friendless."
Hannan points to a series of international challenges and disputes as evidence of this decline. He notes the United States President's remarks regarding the Falkland Islands, tensions with China over nationalization and embassy delays, threats from Russia concerning military aid to Ukraine, and calls for the dismemberment of the UK from a U.S. Congressman. Additionally, he highlights demands for reparations from Caribbean and African nations, and disputes over territories like the Chagos Islands, suggesting a pattern of international friction.
He attributes this perceived isolation in part to what he describes as a "Down With Us Party" among British elites, including lawyers, academics, and media figures, who he claims promote a narrative that blames white Britons for global ills. Hannan contends that this narrative, amplified by domestic media and academic discourse, has fostered a negative perception of British history, even among younger generations in former colonies who may not have experienced British rule directly.
"It can't be everyone's fault but ours," Hannan writes, drawing a parallel to the United Kingdom's isolation during World War II. However, he contrasts the current situation with 1940 by noting a lack of united national resolve, suggesting that "plenty of Brits will take another side against their own country – especially when the other side is the EU."
To address this isolation, Hannan proposes several strategies. He advocates for strengthening alliances with Commonwealth realms like Australia, Canada, and New Zealand through initiatives such as Canzuk. He also suggests repairing relations with the United States, particularly in anticipation of potential shifts in American political leadership, and pursuing a bilateral trade deal. Furthermore, he advises a more assertive approach in dealings with the European Union, with specific aims such as resolving the border issue in Northern Ireland. Hannan also suggests deepening ties with South American countries that support British sovereignty over the Falkland Islands, specifically mentioning Uruguay and Chile.
Hannan concludes by emphasizing the need for the UK to project strength and confidence, asserting that "We need to rediscover the truth about our country. We are not a brutal gaggle of slavers and scoundrels. We are a brave and moral nation." He believes that by celebrating its history and backing it with military strength, the UK can improve its international standing. The leaders of the three devolved assemblies, all of whom represent separatist parties, have met in Cardiff to demand referendums. In seven weeks, Trump, pictured with Irish President Micheal Martin at the weekend, is likely to be thumped at the mid-term elections and his authority will begin to drain away, so the UK should try to repair relations with the US. 
