What exactly does "a new government with new priorities" mean?
The entire globe awaits the answer to that question as Gordon Brown became the new British prime minister Wednesday in London. The Associated Press reports Brown made that statement outside his Downing Street office minutes after being confirmed the new prime minister by Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace.
Brown replaces Tony Blair, who brought economic prosperity back to Britain and found a way to create peace in Northern Ireland. All of Blair's impressive work in these two areas, however, is clouded by his decision to involve British troops in the Iraq war.
"I am truly sorry about the dangers that they face today in Iraq and Afghanistan," the AP reports Blair as saying about the troops during his final appearance at the House of Commons Wednesday before stepping down.
"I know some may think that they face these dangers in vain: I don't and I never will. I believe they are fighting for the security of this country and the wider world against people who would destroy our way of life," Blair said.
ADVERTISEMENT
President George Bush immediately offered Brown congratulations via a telephone call after his appointment Wednesday. Brown's comments leading to Wednesday included promises of restoring trust in government.
One idea already floating around is Brown may sanction an inquiry on Iraq, similar to the United States Study Group. Some observers also are saying Brown can call the Iraq situation Blair's war and set his own course on the matter.
All of this raises keen interest in the future relationship between Bush and Brown. Brown is reportedly not blessed with the personal charisma associated with Blair. Those close to the transition also reportedly expect the stern Brown to receive little enthusiasm from the public.
How Brits literally warm up to Brown may be the critical deciding factor to his future success at home and abroad.
