**Ministers Seek EU Negotiator to Lead Reset Talks**
Ministers are in the process of hiring a new EU negotiator as part of the effort led by Sir Keir Starmer to reset Britain’s relationship with Europe. The position, offering a salary of at least £150,000 per year and advertised by the Cabinet Office, is designed to act as a crucial intermediary for all UK interactions with the European bloc. Described as a “sherpa,” the appointee would serve as the principal advisor to the Prime Minister and the Minister for European Union Relations, Nick Thomas-Symonds, on matters pertaining to EU relations, delivering the ‘EU reset,’ and managing international economic issues.
In addition to advising top government officials, the chosen candidate will be tasked with representing the Prime Minister during negotiations. The Trade and Co-operation Agreement, which forms the foundation of the UK-EU relationship post-Brexit, is set for renewal talks in 2025. Therefore, the sherpa, appointed directly by the Prime Minister, is expected to play a key role in overseeing these critical discussions. The role will be filled through a transparent and competitive process within the civil service, offering a salary ranging between £153,000 and £200,000.
Sir Keir Starmer has emphasized the importance of rebuilding ties with Europe. Since taking office, he has embarked on visits to various European capitals to engage with national leaders. However, the Conservative party has raised concerns that the move to hire a new EU negotiator signals an attempt by the Prime Minister to undermine Brexit and the UK’s sovereignty by steering the country back towards the EU. Shadow Foreign Secretary, Dame Priti Patel, voiced opposition to what she perceives as Labour’s readiness to concede to the EU.
A Labour insider dismissed these claims, stating that there is no intention to rejoin the EU structures, such as the customs union, single market, or freedom of movement. Instead, the focus remains on operating in the national interest, addressing trade barriers, enhancing collaboration to combat criminal activities, and standing united against acts of aggression, like those perpetrated by Putin. The Cabinet Office underscored the significance of building closer trade and security ties with the EU in the context of resetting the relationship post-Brexit, with the new EU negotiator at the helm of these efforts.
As the process to reset the UK’s engagement with the EU gains momentum, the newly appointed sherpa will be instrumental in advancing closer economic partnerships with the European bloc, driving economic growth and fostering cooperation. The sherpa will play a pivotal role in navigating the complex negotiations ahead, ensuring that the UK’s interests are protected and advanced effectively. The recruitment of this key figure underscores the government’s commitment to charting a new course in its relationship with the EU, steering towards a future defined by cooperation and mutual benefit.