LSE Lecture : Britain in a changing world

On Tuesday, the 18th of November, I had the opportunity to attend the Maurice Fraser Annual Lecture at the Sheikh Zayed Theatre in the Cheng Kin Ku Building at The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) by Sir John Major, former UK Prime Minister (1990 to 1997) and chaired by Professor Simon Glendinning of the LSE European Institute, who was very humorous. I was also lucky to be seated in the second row, which made the experience even more fascinating.

Firstly, he began by noting that globalisation has retreated and that many people feel life has not improved since the 2008 financial crisis, creating opportunities for frustration, division and scapegoating.

With respect to Ukraine, Sir Major stressed that the conflict is fundamentally with Putin and his regime. He outlined various potential trajectories, from an indefinite stalemate to increased Western support forcing Russian retreat and emphasised that any peace settlement must not allow Putin to gain from aggression.

His strongest comments focused on Brexit. Major described it as a strategic mistake with far-reaching economic consequences, including £100 billion in lost trade and projected £311 billion in long-term damage linked to falling EU trade levels. He argued that the promised “mega” trade deals have not materialised and that the UK has lost many of the unique advantages built during the 1980s and 1990s.

Sir John Major also highlighted the strategic disadvantages of being outside the EU. He explained that if China were to cut trade ties or impose barriers, there are very few options the UK could take alone to influence the outcome. With the backing of the entire European Union, Britain would have more leverage and collective impact, illustrating why he believes rejoining the EU would be in the national interest.

I found Major’s talk especially captivating, not only because of his depth of experience but also the stories he shared, including a memorable anecdote about President Boris Yeltsin insisting he drink vodka with him at 8am in Heathrow. He also reflected on the importance of his “Lady of Cornwall” speech and what it meant for Britain’s place in Europe.

Thank you to the LSE European Institute for the opportunity to attend such an insightful and inspiring lecture.

Writer : Jonathan K

Editor : Jonathan K