Commentator Peter Hitchens has offered a critical assessment of the current UK political climate, suggesting that Labour leader Andy Burnham should consider calling a general election in October. Hitchens posits that a substantial majority could embolden backbench revolts, and a smaller mandate might allow Burnham to govern with a platform distinct from Sir Keir Starmer's current proposals, potentially positioning him as an "unchallenged boss."
Hitchens also directed criticism towards Nigel Farage, describing him as someone "firmly set on being the nation’s most active and plaintive victim." He cited Farage's absence from the Clacton result announcement as an example, questioning if Farage feared being "upstaged by Binface."
Further scrutiny was applied to Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch's decision to offer support to an individual with a history of alleged racial harassment. Hitchens questioned Badenoch's judgment, likening the situation to potentially endorsing former Prime Minister Liz Truss for a significant economic role.
Letby Trial Secrecy Raises Justice Concerns
Beyond electoral politics, Hitchens addressed the secrecy surrounding the Lucy Letby trial. He noted that "no fewer than nine Crown witnesses were allowed to hide their names" and that the identities of the alleged victims were also kept secret. Hitchens contrasted this with potential justifications for secrecy in national security cases, arguing that such anonymity in the Letby trial hindered public accountability and the ability to scrutinize witness testimony.
He referenced the Sixth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which grants defendants the right to confront their accusers, and quoted barrister Geoffrey Robertson KC's denunciation of legislation allowing such secrecy as a "perjurers’ charter." Hitchens expressed concern that granting the state more power, often under the guise of counter-terrorism, erodes individual liberties, citing the adage "If you've nothing to hide, you've nothing to fear" as a fallacy.
The death of a witness in the Letby case, known only as 'Dr. A,' prompted further reflection from Hitchens. He speculated that the witness's testimony, which he characterized as "largely speculation," may have significantly damaged Letby's case, particularly given their prior friendly relationship. Hitchens concluded by questioning whether such evidence would have been presented if the witness had been compelled to testify under their own name, highlighting the unresolved issue of transparency in the justice system.