In a significant diplomatic exchange, UK Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy has publicly stated that he told US Vice President JD Vance he was wrong to link the tragic murder of British teenager Henry Nowak to mass migration. The conversation, which took place via phone call on Saturday, underscores growing tensions between the UK and US over immigration rhetoric and the politicization of violent crime.
Lammy appeared on Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips on Sky News, where he detailed the robust yet respectful discussion. He emphasized that the murder of Henry Nowak, a young British man, has nothing to do with mass migration. The deputy prime minister pointed out that the legal process in the UK is functioning correctly, with multiple independent investigations already underway into the case and police conduct.
The Controversial Post That Sparked the Row
The dispute began when JD Vance posted on X (formerly Twitter) claiming that Henry Nowak would be alive today if European leaders had resisted what he called the mass invasion of migrants. Prime Minister Keir Starmer previously suggested that such comments amounted to interference in British democracy, a charge that has now been directly challenged by Lammy in his conversation with the US vice president.
Lammy told Vance that his post was not helpful and that it misrepresented the facts. He clarified that Nowak was a British citizen, not a victim of migration, and that murder rates in the United Kingdom are actually declining. This factual rebuttal forms the core of Lammy's argument against linking isolated tragedies to broader immigration policy.
US Defense Secretary Adds Fuel to the Fire
The controversy widened when US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, speaking during a D-Day anniversary ceremony in France, accused European countries of allowing an invasion on their shores. He referenced beaches in Spain, Italy, Greece, and Bulgaria, warning about dangerous ideologies arriving with migrants. These remarks have been criticized as inflammatory and historically insensitive, given the context of the Normandy landings.
Lammy was careful to separate his disagreement with Vance from broader UK-US relations, noting that the two men remain colleagues and friends. However, he made it clear that the UK government will not tolerate misinformation that fuels division or undermines its democratic processes.
Lammy's Response to Racism Allegations
When asked by the BBC's Laura Kuenssberg whether he believed Vance's comments were racist, Lammy avoided direct accusation but reminded the public that Henry Nowak's family has called for calm and unity. He stressed the importance of not allowing the toxic online space to escalate tensions further. Lammy also reflected on his own history with racial justice, referencing his statements during the Black Lives Matter protests following George Floyd's death.
He rejected the idea that anger is a selective response, saying he is deeply troubled by Nowak's death regardless of skin color. Instead, he advocated for focusing on actionable reforms, including the ongoing investigations by the Independent Police Complaints Authority and the Attorney General's review of sentencing.
Institutional Racism and Progress in the UK
Lammy was also pressed on whether UK police remain institutionally racist. He acknowledged that the UK has moved on from the period of institutional racism highlighted by the Stephen Lawrence case, but he stopped short of declaring the problem fully solved. The exchange highlights the delicate balance between defending the UK's legal system and acknowledging areas for improvement.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Issue | Details |
|---|---|
| Inciting Comment | JD Vance blamed Nowak's murder on mass migration |
| Lammy's Response | Told Vance he was wrong; murder rates are falling in the UK |
| Ongoing Investigations | IPCA, Hampshire Police Inspectorate, Attorney General review |
| US Defense Secretary | Pete Hegseth also criticized European migration policies |
FAQ Section
What did David Lammy say to JD Vance about the Henry Nowak murder?
David Lammy told JD Vance he was wrong to blame the murder on mass migration. He explained that Henry Nowak was a British citizen and that murder rates in the UK are declining. Lammy also emphasized that independent investigations are ongoing.
Why did Keir Starmer accuse the US of interfering in British democracy?
Prime Minister Keir Starmer suggested that Vance's social media post about the murder was an attempt to interfere in British democracy by spreading misinformation. Lammy's direct call to Vance was seen as a firm diplomatic response to this interference.
Is there an investigation into the police handling of the Henry Nowak case?
Yes, there are multiple investigations underway, including reviews by the Independent Police Complaints Authority and the Hampshire Police Inspectorate. The Attorney General is also reviewing the sentencing in the case to ensure justice is served.
