Starmer’s ‘Plastic Patriots’ Row, St George’s Day Clash & France Migrant Deal

Starmer’s ‘Plastic Patriots’ Row, St George’s Day Clash & France Migrant Deal

From Afternoon Empire with Ian Collins by talkRADIO

April 23, 2026 · 36 min

About this episode

The episode discusses the debate over English identity and patriotism sparked by Keir Starmer's comments, alongside the UK's new immigration deal with France.

Harry Cole from The Sun sits in for Ian Collins, asking: is Keir Starmer redefining English identity, or weaponising it? A row over “plastic patriotism” has ignited a fierce debate about national identity, patriotism and what it means to be English. Keir Starmer’s St George’s Day comments are under fire, with Suella Braverman arguing Labour is out of touch with traditional values as Reform pushes for Union Flags in schools and a stronger focus on national pride. Jack Elsom joins to break down the political fallout and whether this is a culture war flashpoint that could define the next election. Plus, the latest on the small boats crisis, as the UK strikes a new deal with France, raising questions about immigration control, border security and international cooperation. From patriotism and identity politics to immigration and UK-France relations, we ask: who gets to define what it means to be British? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

People in this episode

Host: Ian Collins

Guests: Harry Cole, Jack Elsom

Topics covered

  • national identity
  • patriotism
  • immigration
  • UK-France relations
  • political debate
  • culture war

Keywords

  • Keir Starmer
  • plastic patriotism
  • national pride
  • immigration control
  • border security
  • culture war
  • St George's Day
  • UK-France deal

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: The Sun, Labour, Reform

Places: UK, France

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