LONDON — Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated that Elon Musk is interfering in U.K. politics through social media posts concerning a murder case. The U.S. State Department published a statement on X, the social media platform, extending condolences to the family of Henry Nowak.
Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy said politicians should urge Musk to step back from these discussions. "But I think it is appropriate for politicians to urge Elon Musk to step back," Lammy said. He added that he rejects the idea of a two-tiered policing system in the U.K., stating, "I don't recognise this caricature of a two-tier policing system in our country."
Liberal Democrat Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Calum Miller characterized statements that suggest a two-tiered system as flagrant foreign interference. Miller said, "This is flagrant foreign interference that seeks to fan the flames of division and the prime minister should summon the US ambassador immediately," He added that the Trump administration should not be using the case as a political football. Miller said, "The Trump administration should not be using the tragic murder of Henry Nowak as a political football."
The Deputy Prime Minister also stated that police chiefs are reviewing the wording of anti-racism guidance due to a public need for clarity. A Downing Street office statement indicated that Prime Minister Starmer will not withdraw if a Labour leadership contest occurs. The office noted that the country expects the government to focus on governing rather than parliamentary debates.