In a recent interview, Reform UK deputy leader Richard Tice emphasized the importance of the United Kingdom drawing inspiration from Dubai, particularly in terms of national pride and crime rates. He shared these insights during a segment on the BBC’s “Political Thinking with Nick Robinson,” highlighting that Dubai serves as a model for safety and communal respect. Tice noted, for instance, the culture of leaving belongings unattended in public spaces, with owners often returning to find them untouched, a stark contrast to the rising crime levels currently present in various parts of the UK.
Tice, whose professional life oscillates between Westminster, his constituency in Skegness, and frequent visits to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), emphasized that he finds value in the fact that citizens in Dubai exhibit a strong sense of national pride. He described this phenomenon directly to the BBC audience, noting how children in Dubai schools stand for the national anthem daily, fostering a culture of patriotism and respect for one’s country. Although he admitted that Dubai is not without its flaws, he argued that policymakers in the UK are overlooking critical lessons from nations that have successfully implemented structured systems.
To substantiate his claims, Tice contrasted the safety and security of Dubai with the experiences of British citizens today. He criticized the current British system, stating that crime rates have escalated, leaving citizens feeling unsafe and unprotected. Tice suggested that complacency among politicians leads to a lack of accountability for those who commit crimes, resulting in a justice system that does not serve the needs of the public. He remarked that this failure has contributed to a growing discontent among the populace, expressing that the ongoing issues in the UK are what led to a surge in support for the Reform party.
Supporting Tice’s perspective, his partner, Isabel Oakeshott, a journalist, has also recently voiced her admiration for Dubai in her writings. In a column for the Telegraph, Oakeshott described Dubai as “the ultimate multi-cultural success story,” praising its flourishing economy and cultural atmosphere of respect. Tice resonated with her evaluation, indicating a shared positive view of Dubai’s societal structure and accomplishments.
Interestingly, Tice’s analysis brings attention to the broader implications of embracing certain aspects of foreign cultures while also recognizing the intrinsic value of British identity. He explicitly acknowledged that while Dubai operates under an absolute monarchy and is known for its restricted civil liberties — ranking 152 out of 183 for civil liberties according to Sweden’s Varieties of Democracy Institute — the essence of safety and pride observed there is worth consideration. He stated, “no one’s saying everything’s perfect about it,” yet he advocated for a more effective application of British values, particularly emphasizing the inadequacies he perceives in the current justice and civic systems.
The interview also delved deep into political aspirations and personal revelations from Tice. He expressed a keen interest in becoming Chancellor should Reform UK leader Nigel Farage ascend to the position of Prime Minister. Tice explained that his extensive experience in managing finances in his business career equips him for the role, noting that effective governance can lead to meaningful changes.
When prompted about his privileged background, attending the prestigious Uppingham School, Tice acknowledged his fortunate beginnings but was quick to clarify that the measure of an individual’s character lies in how they use their opportunities. He affirmed his commitment to working hard and making a significant impact through dedicated service.
Overall, Tice’s remarks underline the complex interplay of national identity, safety, and civic responsibility while calling for a reevaluation of current systems within the UK. By advocating for the integration of certain successful foreign practices, he hopes to address perceived shortcomings in British governance and societal conduct. As political dialogues continue to evolve, Tice’s suggestions and reflections provide a window into the future aspirations of the Reform UK party and the potential directions British politics may take.