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April 17, 2007

Hilary Benn "In the UK, we do not use the phrase 'war on terror'"

UK International Development Secretary Hilary Benn has recently been in the news - arguing that

In the UK, we do not use the phrase 'war on terror' because we can't win by military means alone, and because this isn't us against one organised enemy with a clear identity and coherent set of objectives

Unsurprisingly enough, I agree with this position. What's interesting to note, though, is that this policy was initially laid out in December last year when ministers were told "by the Foreign Office to drop the phrase 'war on terror' and other terms seen as liable to anger British Muslims and increase tensions more broadly in the Islamic world." Benn's decision to emphasise this now may have more to do with his political career plans than anything deeper. However, it's interesting that this 'new' announcement is getting so much more attention now than last year (as part of the story of Benn's hope to be elected deputy leader of the Labour Party).

At any rate, in terms of explaining why talking about a 'war on terror' isn't a good idea, I think Jon Stewart offers a much better justification than the Foreign Office:

We declared war on terror. We declared war on terror—it’s not even a noun, so, good luck. After we defeat it, I’m sure we’ll take on that bastard ennui.

As it happens, I'm pleased to announce that my patented ennui-buster bombs will soon be on the market.

Posted by jon_mendel at April 17, 2007 01:17 AM

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