The Daily T William Hague: Starmer has been humiliated on the world stage
Mar 13, 2026
William Hague, former Conservative leader and foreign secretary now Oxford chancellor, reflects on leadership, foreign policy and public life. He discusses the UK–US relationship, defence readiness and responses to Iran. He also revisits Iraq, media intrusion, student politics and the challenge of renewing the Conservative party.
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Special Relationship Faces A Rocky Stretch
- William Hague warns the UK–US special relationship will be rocky due to unpredictable US leadership and reduced UK defence posture.
- He cites fewer ships in the Mediterranean and removed minesweepers from Bahrain as signs Britain was caught flat-footed.
Diversify Defence Supply Chains
- Hague argues the UK must diversify defence suppliers and increase domestic/European collaboration to avoid over-reliance on US systems.
- He highlights the new fighter project with Italy and Japan as the right direction away from US-only dependence.
Give A Clear One Line To Allies
- Hague says the government should give a single clear answer to the US: refuse offensive strikes but offer defensive support.
- He suggests positioning enough ships to defend allies without joining regime-change attacks.