Anthony Barnett on English Nationalism and the Need for Constitutional Reform

In an interview with the New Statesman, campaigner Anthony Barnett discusses the rising threat of ethno-nationalism in England and the potential breakup of the United Kingdom. Drawing on Tom Nairn’s theories, Barnett argues that the lack of a distinct English political institution has allowed a toxic form of Englishness, driven by Brexit and neoliberal resentment, to dominate. He identifies the Reform party as the modern manifestation of this phenomenon, describing it as a transformation of conservative tradition into a fascist-adjacent force. Barnett urges immediate constitutional reforms, specifically proportional representation, to empower voters and counter this trend. He highlights a growing recognition among some left-wing figures, including Andy Burnham and the Greens, that democratic reform is essential to address these deep-seated national questions. Barnett emphasizes that progressive forces must take responsibility for articulating a positive English identity within a reformed constitutional framework, rather than ignoring the English question as solely a Scottish or Welsh issue.