Former Deputy Prime Minister Michael Heseltine has voiced concern over the absence of Brexit discussions in the campaign for the upcoming UK general election, warning of potential dishonesty in addressing major national issues without considering the impact of Brexit.
Michael Heseltine Criticizes Brexit Silence in Upcoming General Election
Former Deputy Prime Minister Michael Heseltine has criticized both the Labour and Conservative parties for avoiding Brexit discussions in the campaign for the upcoming UK general election on July 4, 2024. Heseltine, who served from 1995 to 1997 and was a senior figure in Margaret Thatcher’s cabinet, stated that major national issues cannot be addressed honestly without considering the impact of Brexit.
Writing in The Independent, Heseltine warned that this election might be “the most dishonest in modern times” due to the refusal of the main political parties to debate Brexit. He argued that issues such as the economy, immigration, and defense are intrinsically linked to the UK’s relationship with the EU. Heseltine emphasized the need to cooperate more closely with European neighbors and warned of potential security challenges if former US President Donald Trump is re-elected.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak had recently announced a general election, with the Conservatives pledging mandatory national service for 18-year-olds. Labour leader Keir Starmer highlighted that economic, border, and national security would form the core of Labour’s manifesto.
