Privately, some Labour MPs are questioning why they are the focus of attention when compared to their German counterparts, who have an upcoming parliamentary election that could influence Elon Musk. In the UK, there will not be a general election for over four years, and although Labour’s government is not very popular, it remains stable in parliamentary terms.
Elon Musk’s influence cannot be disregarded by Prime Minister Starmer. While Starmer has not engaged with Musk’s provocations, MPs believe he should take a firmer stance to protect his ministers from online abuse. Musk has been targeting Starmer’s safeguarding minister, Jess Phillips, for her policy decisions, including prioritizing a local inquiry over a national one.
One Labour MP emphasized that Musk and others should not be given a platform to undermine the government elected by the British people. It is crucial to recognize Musk’s growing interest in UK politics, especially considering how social media is being used to manipulate public opinion.
As the United States is a key ally to Britain, Musk’s current alignment with the incoming US leader holds significance. Labour is keen to establish trust with the Trump administration, as being shunned by the president-elect could benefit Nigel Farage. There is also an economic incentive to collaborate with Trump on issues like tariff exemptions.
Ministers in Starmer’s government are treading carefully in their responses to Musk. Health Secretary Wes Streeting acknowledged Musk’s criticisms as misjudged and misinformed but expressed a willingness to work with him to address important issues using his social media platform.
Elon Musk’s influence on Trump’s decision-making, particularly in foreign policy matters, is uncertain. However, his comments are already impacting British politics by revealing divisions in a highly flexible political landscape.
Kemi Badenoch, leader of the opposition Conservative Party, responded to Musk’s remarks by calling for a national inquiry into the issue of rape gangs. However, Badenoch’s authority on the matter is limited due to her association with a previous Conservative government that faced criticism for its handling of child sexual abuse inquiries.
The legacy of the Conservative government has allowed Farage to position himself as the true opposition in Britain, and Musk’s interest in Reform provides an opportunity for Farage to enhance his influence. Farage has capitalized on discontent with the former government’s actions, positioning himself as a viable alternative in the political landscape.
Far-right provocateur Tommy Robinson is drawing attention as he aligns himself with Tesla CEO Elon Musk, seeking financial support for his political endeavors. Robinson’s hopes for backing from Musk come as his Reform party gears up for local elections in May, where the party is expected to make a strong showing.
However, this association with the controversial figure poses risks for prominent British political figures like Nigel Farage. While Musk has expressed admiration for Robinson’s stance against grooming gangs, Farage has distanced himself, pointing out that Robinson’s imprisonment was due to contempt of court, not his activism.
Farage, a key figure in British politics, emphasized that aligning with Robinson does not align with his party’s goals of winning the next general election, indicating a clear divide among political leaders on Robinson’s involvement with Musk.
The complexities of Musk’s associations extend beyond personal connections, raising concerns and opportunities for politicians across the ideological spectrum in the UK. Musk’s affinity for far-right figures may not resonate with the British public, which has not experienced the rise of a significant extreme right-wing movement seen in some other European countries. Farage, while acknowledging Musk’s potential financial support, is mindful of these considerations as he navigates the political landscape.
Despite reservations about Musk’s associations, outright rejection of the billionaire may not be a feasible option for those in power. The delicate balance of relationships, such as Labour leader Keir Starmer’s engagement with former US President Donald Trump, may hinge on maintaining a cautious distance from Musk, at least for the time being.
As Musk’s influence and connections continue to spark discussions and debates in British politics, the implications of his partnerships with divisive figures like Robinson underscore the intricate dance between opportunity and risk for leaders seeking to navigate this new political terrain.
For the latest news and updates from CNN, visit CNN.com and sign up for our newsletters.
