UK Justice Secretary David Lammy has directly confronted US Vice President JD Vance over his controversial remarks linking the murder of Henry Nowak to what Vance called a “mass invasion of migrants.” In a tense phone call, Lammy told Vance his comments were “wrong,” marking a significant diplomatic pushback from the British government. The exchange underscores growing transatlantic tensions over immigration rhetoric and its impact on domestic justice and race relations.
Lammy’s Direct Rebuttal to Vance
Speaking publicly after the call, Lammy revealed he had told the US vice president that his statements were not only inaccurate but harmful. “I made it clear that his remarks were wrong,” Lammy said, emphasizing the need for responsible leadership from global figures. The justice secretary also described watching the police bodycam footage of Nowak’s arrest as “deeply traumatic,” drawing parallels to the killings of George Floyd and Stephen Lawrence.
Lammy’s intervention is notable given his role as deputy prime minister and his history as a former lawyer. His comments reflect a broader concern within the UK government that inflammatory language from US officials could inflame racial tensions and undermine public trust in policing. The attorney general is now reviewing the sentence of Vickrum Digwa, who was jailed for life with a minimum of 21 years for Nowak’s murder.
Hegseth’s D-Day Immigration Comments Spark Fury
The controversy extends beyond Vance. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has been widely condemned for linking immigration to the D-day anniversary. Speaking at the American military cemetery in Colleville-sur-Mer, France, Hegseth claimed that “different European beaches are stormed by different, dangerous ideologies” and called the arrival of migrants an “invasion.” Historians and rights campaigners have accused him of “grotesque stupidity” and desecrating the memory of WWII soldiers.
Historian Simon Schama described Hegseth’s remarks as a “special kind of loathsomeness,” blending historical deafness with self-importance. The backlash highlights how immigration has become a flashpoint in US-European relations, with critics arguing that such language trivializes the sacrifices of Allied forces. The EU and UK car industries, meanwhile, are urging the European Commission to adjust Brexit trade rules to avoid tariffs on electric vehicle imports by 2027.
Key Reactions to Hegseth’s Speech
- Simon Schama: Called the speech “grotesque stupidity” and “comically ludicrous self-importance.”
- Rights campaigners: Accused Hegseth of exploiting D-day for anti-immigration rhetoric.
- French officials: Expressed dismay at the politicization of a solemn anniversary.
Starmer’s Infrastructure Cuts and Defence Spending
Domestically, Prime Minister Keir Starmer is reportedly planning to cut capital investment in infrastructure projects to fund his government’s defence investment plan. This move has sparked debate among economists, who warn that reducing spending on roads, schools, and hospitals could stifle long-term growth. The government argues that national security must take priority amid rising global threats.
The defence spending push comes as the US and UK face pressure to increase military budgets in response to conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. However, critics question whether cutting infrastructure is the right approach, especially as the UK struggles with crumbling public services. The Treasury is expected to announce details in the coming weeks.
Brexit Trade Deal Tensions Over EV Tariffs
Meanwhile, the EU and UK car industries are jointly urging the European Commission to suspend tariffs on electric vehicle imports for a second time. Under the 2020 Brexit deal, 55% of a car’s value must be made in the UK or EU to qualify for tariff-free trade. Automakers warn they cannot meet this threshold by the 1 January 2027 deadline, risking higher costs for consumers and slower EV adoption.
The call for a tariff suspension highlights ongoing friction in post-Brexit trade relations. Industry leaders argue that the rules of origin are too strict given current supply chain limitations. If tariffs are imposed, they could add thousands of pounds to the price of EVs, undermining the UK’s net-zero targets. The European Commission has yet to respond officially.
FAQ
Why did David Lammy call JD Vance?
Lammy called Vance to directly challenge his remarks blaming the “mass invasion of migrants” for Henry Nowak’s murder. Lammy described the comments as “wrong” and said they risked inflaming racial tensions.
What did Pete Hegseth say about D-day and immigration?
Hegseth claimed that European beaches are now “stormed by different, dangerous ideologies” due to immigration, and asked if it was “too late” for Europe to act. Historians and rights groups condemned the speech as disrespectful to WWII veterans.
How is the UK government responding to the Nowak case?
The attorney general is reviewing the life sentence of Vickrum Digwa, who was jailed for a minimum of 21 years. Lammy has also called for a broader review of policing and racial justice following the case.
