GrumpyNige MBE 💙

The nut zero zealotry of Ed Miliband. A new occasional series. [feel free to add]. Fertiliser prices and shortages are soaring because the petrochemical industries of the Gulf states are major global suppliers but the Strait of Hormuz, through which they export, is closed. Not good for the spring planting season. Undaunted the UK will introduce a levy on imported carbon-intensive fertiliser as part of its costly obsession with cutting emissions, even when the impact is slight. At a time when we should be increasing food security government policy is to penalise farmers further.

Joint Statement by President Macron, Prime Minister Meloni, Chancellor Merz, Prime Minister Starmer, Prime Minister Carney, Prime Minister Frederiksen, Prime Minister Jetten, Prime Minister Sanchez, President of the European Commission von der Leyen, President of the European Council Costa, Prime Minister Takaichi: We welcome the two-week ceasefire concluded between the United States and Iran today. We thank Pakistan and all partners involved for facilitating this important agreement. The goal must now be to negotiate a swift and lasting end to the war within the coming days. This can only be achieved through diplomatic means. We strongly encourage quick progress towards a substantive negotiated settlement. This will be crucial to protect the civilian population of Iran and ensure security in the region. It can avert a severe global energy crisis. We support these diplomatic efforts. To this end, we are in close contact with the United States and other partners. We call upon all sides to implement the ceasefire, including in Lebanon. Our Governments will contribute to ensuring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

🚨 NEW: Keir Starmer is travelling to the Middle East today to hold talks on reopening the Strait of Hormuz

The two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran today is welcomed by the UK and our allies. The goal now must be a lasting end to the war. Alongside our international partners, the UK will work to ensure a return to freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.