The article discusses a recent viral exchange between podcaster Konstantin Kisin and Fraser Nelson regarding the English identity of Rishi Sunak, born in the UK. The conversation revives historical views that include racial prejudice, echoing sentiments expressed by figures like Enoch Powell and Bernard Manning. While modern Britain boasts a more inclusive acceptance of diverse identities, critics argue that old racist attitudes still surface, particularly when discussing who qualifies as 'English.' The exchange illustrates a contradiction in contemporary discussions about national identity in Britain, where cultural inclusivity coexists with lingering biases.
The exchange exposes, though, a contemporary paradox. Britain is more liberal and inclusive in its understanding of national identity than ever before. Yet, old racist tropes keep being rehashed by those on the right.
Kisin despises the racial politics of Manning and Powell. But it is difficult to see how his view of brown Hindus being debarred from Englishness differs from Powell's assertion that a West Indian or Asian does not, by being born in England, become an Englishman.
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