Starmer Calls Withdrawal from Human Rights Treaty a Major Mistake

Sir Keir Starmer, Leader of the UK Labour Party, has condemned any potential withdrawal from the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), calling it a “profound mistake.” This statement came during a heated session of Prime Minister’s Questions in the House of Commons on Wednesday, where he addressed concerns regarding the government’s plans to review the interpretation of certain provisions within the treaty.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has already ruled out a full withdrawal from the ECHR. However, he indicated that the government intends to tighten the application of Article 8, which protects the right to private and family life, particularly in immigration cases. Starmer’s comments were prompted by a question from Sir Ed Davey, leader of the Liberal Democrats, who warned against aligning with countries like Russia and Belarus that have also expressed intentions to withdraw from the convention.

Starmer emphasized the importance of maintaining the ECHR, stating, “We will not withdraw from the European Convention on Human Rights. We need to ensure that both the convention and other instruments are fit for the circumstances we face at the moment.” He expressed concern that withdrawing from the ECHR could lead to a domino effect, prompting other nations to abandon their agreements with the UK. He noted, “It would be catastrophic for dealing with the problem that we are dealing with.”

The government’s stance was reinforced by Shabana Mahmood, the Justice Secretary, who remarked that withdrawing from the ECHR would place the UK in a “club” with only Russia and Belarus. During a session with the Lords Constitution Committee, she highlighted that the UK government’s position is entirely opposed to any such withdrawal. Mahmood stated, “If people who support this instrument and want it to work can’t have this debate in a sensible way, then there’s no hope really at all, for anybody.”

Mahmood also addressed the current perception among European colleagues, noting that the UK is viewed as being at the “maximalist end of the spectrum” in its interpretation of international obligations. She acknowledged the need for discussion on whether the current line in upholding these obligations has been drawn correctly.

As part of ongoing reforms, the Home Office has indicated plans to reduce the number of immigration claims citing “exceptional circumstances” under Article 8. Proposals related to this will be presented in the autumn and may extend beyond the initial framework discussed. This is part of a broader strategy outlined in the immigration White Paper released in May, aimed at refining the UK’s approach to immigration and human rights.

The government’s moves to reconsider the interpretation of the ECHR come amid a broader dialogue on human rights across Europe. As the situation develops, the Labour Party maintains its commitment to the values enshrined in the convention, reinforcing the significance of international human rights standards in domestic policy.