Key facts
- Ed Miliband is preparing a foreign policy agenda focused on EU relations, the G20, and the climate crisis.
- He aims to contribute to debates on the future international order and address the situation in Palestine.
- Miliband is working with Europe minister Hamish Falconer to strengthen UK-EU ties.
- The UK is set to chair the G20 next year, with a focus on illicit finance and global wealth tax proposals.
- Miliband faces pressure from within his party for a stronger stance on the conflict in Gaza.
- Maintaining a good relationship with the US State Department under Donald Trump is a key challenge.
Ed Miliband, the UK's Foreign Secretary, is reportedly preparing a proactive agenda that tackles key international challenges, including relations with the European Union, the climate crisis, and the conflict in Gaza. Allies suggest Miliband is eager to make a policy-driven impact in the role, viewing it as far from a consolation prize.
Miliband's agenda includes developing a distinct approach to the EU over the next decade, preparing for Britain's G20 chairmanship next year, and addressing the climate crisis. He also intends to engage in broader debates about the future international order, potentially navigating the complexities of the US alliance. His approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict may take longer to solidify due to ongoing elections and disarmament discussions, but his past support for recognising Palestine indicates his leanings.
Conscious of his position as the tenth foreign secretary since 2014 and arriving after the sacking of Olly Robbins, Miliband is working with Europe minister Hamish Falconer to re-engage the Foreign Office in EU relationship talks. This personal involvement aims to give the department more influence than under previous leadership. Despite Labour's manifesto red lines on the single market and customs union, Miliband is exploring long-term possibilities for the UK's EU relationship, with a closer European connection seen as vital for national security and economic growth.
Miliband also aims to revive the influence of the G20, a body that has seen its impact wane since 2008. Gordon Brown will continue as special envoy on global finance, working alongside Miliband. Lord Wood has been appointed as a minister in the Lords to support foreign policy efforts. Ideas such as a global wealth tax and increased transparency in overseas financial holdings are being promoted, with a report commissioned from economist Gabriel Zucman highlighting significant wealth growth among billionaires and proposing a global minimum tax.
Donald Trump's own G20 summit is scheduled for December. Miliband is not expected to take immediate action on Gaza, despite calls from Labour backbenchers for a more robust policy, including comprehensive sanctions on Israel. The debate continues on whether sanctions would isolate Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu or serve his domestic political interests. Miliband faces the challenge of maintaining his progressive credentials while managing relations with the US State Department under Trump, a relationship seen as crucial for continued support for Ukraine.