The Impact of British Prime Minister Liz Truss on European Politics

Kim Yongmin

(kym7224@naver.com)

Research Assistant Professor,

The Research Institute of Chinese Affairs, Konkuk University

English Abstract

Latecomer’s Comeback

Liz Truss was not a primary candidate in line for leadership of the Conservative Party after Boris Johnson’s resignation was confirmed.

However, she became Prime Minister following the success of her campaign strategy which focused on firm domestic policies, and actions against the opponents’ scandals.

This paper aims to predict the impact of Truss’ United Kingdom on European politics by looking at the 2022 Conservative Party leadership election process and the policies of PM Truss.

Johnson Government without Boris Johnson?

PM Truss is expected to follow Johnson’s foreign policy stance in the short-run. Active participation and exertion of influence in the Quad, AUKUS, FOIP and CPTPP, previously promoted by Johnson, are very likely to be continued.

The key to remaining in power and avoiding criticisms of being a Johnson Government with out Johnson lies in how soon Liz Truss will be able to show her own policy colors.

A Pile of Pending Domestic Issues

Tax reduction were announced to stimulate the stagnant economy after COVID-19. It has, however, resulted in a historical depreciation of the British pound as critics call the success of the measure to be limited.

The explosive increase of energy costs owing to the Ukraine War is life-threatening to the lower class as British households are experiencing an average of eighty percent increase in energy costs. Accordingly, Truss said during the leadership election that inflation of electricity and gas prices will be suppressed before winter by an increase in energy supply.

Government officials, on the other hand, have warned that without an increase in energy prices, the UK may experience blackouts on a large-scale in the coming winter.

The Unexpected Passing of Queen Elizabeth II

Queen Elizabeth II stood as a symbol of stability and endurance. As such, her passing comes as an unexpected crisis.

While undergoing changes in its currency and stamps, the British society will slowly feel the absence of Queen Elizabeth II, a great monarch second only to Queen Victoria.

The question on maintaining the symbolism and stability of the British Monarchy has newly risen in British politics and diplomacy.

The Impact of Truss Government on Europe and Policy Implications for Korea

During the leadership election, Truss strongly condemned Russia and China, making it clear that the UK would choose the US over China in the US-China strategic competition. Ever since her foreign secretary days, Truss has consistently been taking a firm stance against the EU, China and Russia, calling for strong sanctions against China in the field of advanced technology.

Korea should maintain its connections with the UK such as the FTA signed during the Johnson government. Furthermore, it should clarify to the UK who has sided completely with the US Korea’s position in the US-China strategic competition in how it has to carefully manage its relationship with China.