Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has declared he would personally "call out" derogatory language like that recently used by US President Donald Trump towards a female journalist. The Labour leader made the statement during an appearance on ITV's Loose Women programme this afternoon.
A Firm Stance on Disrespectful Language
Sir Keir was on the show to launch the government's new strategy for tackling violence against women and girls. He was directly questioned by presenter Myleene Klass about President Trump's recent conduct. Klass referenced the incident where Trump told a Bloomberg journalist, "Quiet, piggy," after she asked a question about Jeffrey Epstein.
"Would you allow for someone to speak to your daughter, your wife, your colleagues in the way that Trump spoke to a female journalist?" Klass asked. The Prime Minister's response was unequivocal. "No, I wouldn't, I absolutely wouldn't, I would call it out," he stated firmly.
Context of the Controversial Insult
The incident that sparked the backlash occurred last month aboard Air Force One. Reporter Catherine Lucey attempted to ask President Trump a question relating to the Epstein files. In response, the President was seen waving a finger in her face off-camera before snapping, "Quiet, quiet piggy!"
The insult prompted criticism from Democratic operatives and media commentators. In defence of the President, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said, "He calls out fake news when he sees it and gets frustrated with reporters who spread false information."
Broader Message on Behaviour and Respect
Beyond the specific rebuke of Trump, Sir Keir connected the exchange to the wider goals of his government's new policy. He emphasised the importance of addressing problematic behaviours early. "Part of the stuff we're doing with teenagers is talking about behaviours they might not think are problematic but in fact are," he explained during the interview.
This public criticism highlights the delicate diplomatic balance the Prime Minister often navigates. He has frequently walked a tightrope between criticising the US president and attempting to maintain a functional allied relationship.
