Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has affirmed that the UK’s decision to leave the EU is “settled” amidst growing calls for a customs deal with the European Union. The PM is set to meet with European Council leaders to further efforts to “reset” Britain’s relationship with the trade bloc. While the focus of the meeting is likely to be on defence cooperation, the Liberal Democrats have urged Sir Keir to initiate talks with the EU to potentially establish a customs union.
Despite the calls for a customs deal, Sir Keir Starmer has made it clear that there are no plans for the UK to rejoin the EU. During a visit by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz to the Chequers estate in Buckinghamshire, Sir Keir emphasised the importance of strengthening relationships with the EU in areas such as defence, security, energy, trade, and the economy. He highlighted the progress made in improving the tone and approach towards the EU since he took office.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper reiterated that rejoining the customs union or the single market are “red lines” for the Government in negotiations with the EU. Shadow business secretary Andrew Griffith suggested that prioritising trade deals with the US over Europe would be beneficial for the UK. Griffith emphasised the potential for a trade deal with the US to complement the existing trade agreement with the EU.
The Conservative Party has set out five “tests” for the Prime Minister to ensure that Brexit is not undermined during discussions with European leaders. The tests include commitments to no regression on free movement or asylum transfer, no additional payments to the EU, and no concessions on fishing rights. Additionally, the Tories are seeking assurances that the UK will not align with EU trade standards or allow the European courts jurisdiction over UK law.
Ahead of the PM’s meeting with European leaders, Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey urged Sir Keir Starmer to open negotiations for a customs union with the EU. Davey suggested that joining the Pan-Euro-Mediterranean Convention could be a starting point for enhancing trade relations with the EU. He proposed that a full EU-UK customs union could be established by 2030 and called for an impact assessment on the UK economy.
Opening discussions on a customs union has been viewed as a potential opportunity to strengthen the EU-UK relationship. Sir Ed Davey’s proposal aims to accelerate the process of forming a customs union, which could have significant implications for trade and economic cooperation between the UK and the EU. As the debate on post-Brexit relations continues, the approach towards trade agreements and partnerships will be crucial in shaping the future of UK-EU relations.
As Brexit negotiations and trade discussions evolve, the stance of the UK government under Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer will determine the direction of future relationships with the European Union and other international partners. Balancing economic interests, regulatory alignment, and political agreements will be key considerations in defining the UK’s post-Brexit position in the global arena.