Starmer ready for closer alignment with the EU 'in the national interest'
BBC••world
Key Points:
- Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has indicated the UK should consider closer alignment with the EU single market if it serves the national interest, while maintaining existing trade deals with countries like India and the US.
- Starmer emphasized a preference for aligning with the single market over rejoining the customs union, and reaffirmed that there is no intention to reverse Brexit or restore freedom of movement.
- The UK is already aligning with the EU on certain regulations, such as food and agriculture, to facilitate access to the single market, with further sector-by-sector considerations planned.
- Starmer's comments respond to internal Labour pressure to pursue a customs union and signal a broader strategy to enhance economic ties with the EU without undermining Brexit commitments.
