This week, Keir Starmer’s choice of company during Burns Night celebrations at Downing Street has sparked widespread controversy.
The Labour leader was photographed with Lawrence Chaney, the winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, as they marked the life and poetry of Robert Burns.
The images, posted on social media by Starmer himself, showed him wishing a “Happy Burns Night to Scots at home and around the world.”
However, the gesture has drawn fierce criticism from many.
Fury Over Burns Night Celebration Choices
Social media users were quick to voice their frustration, with some pointing out that Chaney, a drag performer, has little to do with the traditional Burns Night festivities.
The event, which honors the Scottish poet Robert Burns, is typically steeped in history and Scottish cultural customs.
Critics expressed disbelief at the apparent disconnect between the performer and the significance of the occasion.
One user wrote, “The fact the Prime Minister of the UK feels the need to be pictured with a ‘drag queen’ (in order to celebrate Burns Night) & make it the very first picture in this set, tells you a lot about the state of this country,” calling the choice “embarrassing.”
Controversy Over Past Comments on J.K. Rowling
Additionally, Starmer’s choice of Lawrence Chaney has stirred controversy due to the drag queen’s past remarks about author J.K. Rowling.
Chaney, a vocal critic of Rowling’s views on transgender issues, expressed their disapproval of the author in a post from June 2024.
Chaney argued that Rowling, who has been a target of criticism for her stance on women’s rights, was out of touch with the struggles of trans people.
In one post, Chaney mocked Rowling’s wealth, suggesting that her security measures made her immune to the challenges others face.
This connection led some to question the Prime Minister’s decision to publicly align with Chaney.
Using Celebrity Power to Influence Donald Trump
In a separate matter, Labour insiders have suggested that Keir Starmer may need to rethink his diplomatic approach with U.S. President Donald Trump.
Sources within Labour believe that using British celebrities, like former footballer David Beckham, could help improve relations with Trump.
They argue that Trump has more respect for celebrity status than traditional political figures, which might make Beckham a more effective unofficial ambassador.
A Labour source noted that celebrities from various fields of British success, including sports and entertainment, could serve as valuable tools in advancing national interests, particularly in the face of potential trade tariffs and tensions between the UK and the U.S.
Mixed Opinions on Celebrity Diplomacy
This idea of leveraging celebrity power is not new.
Former Labour MP Lord Mann recalls how the 2012 London Olympics used Beckham’s star power to build diplomatic bridges and impress foreign dignitaries.
According to Mann, Beckham’s ability to engage people and create positive impressions made him a valuable asset.
However, while some Labour sources support this approach, others believe that Downing Street should continue to use traditional diplomatic channels, with Britain’s new ambassador Lord Mandelson taking the lead.
Keir Starmer’s Strained Relationship with Trump
Currently, there is no indication that Keir Starmer has had any direct communication with President Trump since his inauguration.
Labour sources acknowledge the importance of building a relationship with the U.S.
president but suggest that non-political strategies might be more successful in bridging the gap.
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