‘We’re All Pro-Europeans Now’: Rudd Seeks to Rebuild Tory-Europe Relations
In a bid to mend the rifts caused by the Brexit years, Amber Rudd is spearheading a new initiative aimed at fostering pro-European sentiment within the Conservative Party. Almost a decade after the Brexit referendum, the former home secretary is one of the driving forces behind the Conservative European Affairs Council (CEAC), an informal group designed to bridge the gap between the Tories and Europe.
Rudd emphasizes the urgency of this endeavor, particularly in light of shifting international dynamics, including the United States' reduced commitment to European defense and ongoing threats from Russia. In an interview with the PA news agency, she stated, “I would say that now, under the current international circumstances, we’re all pro-Europeans.” However, she clarified that the group is not seeking to revisit the Brexit referendum or advocate for rejoining the EU. “All that is finished, it’s in the past,” she asserted, focusing instead on establishing a constructive relationship with Europe for the future.
The CEAC aims to engage with all of Europe—not just the EU—to enhance the party’s understanding of individual European countries and their political landscapes. Max Austin, co-convenor of the group alongside Rudd, highlighted the importance of building relationships with other center-right parties in Europe to better connect with younger voters and counter the rise of populism. Rudd noted, “It’s trying to show the Conservative Party is not one of those nationalist parties. It’s outward-looking, and it’s outward-looking towards what’s on its doorstep, as well as beyond.”
Rudd also pointed to defense and security as areas ripe for increased collaboration between Conservatives and Europe. She criticized the party for potentially lagging behind as Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has made strides in forming a “coalition of the willing” regarding support for Ukraine. “We have to be more assertive about wanting to lead Europe on the defense side,” she said, acknowledging that many moderate Conservatives recognize Starmer’s effectiveness in this arena.
The CEAC has already garnered interest from a diverse cross-section of the Conservative Party, with its formation announced at a recent reception hosted by the Irish embassy. The event attracted attendees from various factions within the party, including pro-Brexit campaigners who expressed support for Rudd’s initiative. Austin emphasized the need to separate the concepts of Europe and the EU, stating, “Those two concepts have been entwined for far too long.” He also noted that there is a space for pro-European Brexiteers within the party, acknowledging the importance of understanding broader European dynamics.
Ultimately, Rudd and Austin’s efforts reflect a recognition that the political landscape has shifted and that the Conservative Party must adapt to remain relevant. “It’s not about people being right or wrong in the past,” Austin remarked. “It’s recognizing that the chapter has changed and what we’re doing really matters.” As the CEAC seeks to redefine the Conservative Party’s relationship with Europe, it aims to foster a more inclusive and forward-thinking approach that resonates with a changing electorate.
