Keir Starmer urges closer UK EU trade ties as nation moves beyond Brexit

Keir Starmer has outlined a bold vision for strengthening the United Kingdom’s economic relationship with the European Union, as he emphasised the importance of focusing on the future rather than revisiting the debate over Brexit. Speaking onboard HMS St Albans in Oslo ahead of a high-profile UK-EU trade summit, the Prime Minister signalled his eagerness to reset ties with the bloc. The initiative forms a key part of what he described as a new era for Britain in trade, defence and economic collaboration.

Starmer asserted that the British public has shifted their priorities since the Brexit referendum, with a growing emphasis on revitalising the economy and improving standards of living. He attributed this mindset change to a collective interest in protecting jobs, boosting public services, and navigating the global trade environment. His government aims to foster deeper partnerships with allies by lowering trade barriers and adopting mutually beneficial standards and practices.

Reflecting on recent successes, Starmer pointed to trade agreements with both the United States and India, viewing these as evidence of a pragmatic approach to international partnership. He indicated that this “calm and pragmatic” strategy would be equally successful in crafting a closer economic relationship with the EU. The UK is considering alignment with EU standards around food, emphasising that maintaining high-quality benchmarks remains non-negotiable. He dismissed any notions of a ‘race to the bottom’ on standards, noting that British people hold the country’s high regulatory standards in high regard.

The Prime Minister also hinted at potential agreements in other areas, such as security and mobility. He expressed a desire for greater collaboration with Europol and a stronger role for the UK in leading investigations within the European law enforcement framework. A key focal point of negotiations could include a controlled youth mobility scheme aimed at fostering cultural and economic exchange between the UK and EU countries. Although it might not be finalised during the current trade discussions, its inclusion signals an intent to explore the topic in the near future.

Addressing concerns over potential disputes with the EU, Starmer acknowledged the European Court of Justice’s role as a mechanism for resolution. He drew a parallel to the Windsor Agreement on Northern Ireland, noting that most observers viewed that agreement as a positive move forward. While some political hesitancy remains regarding a reset in UK-EU relations, particularly after recent electoral gains by Reform UK, Starmer continues to press ahead with his plans, framing them as vital for Britain’s economic recovery and future growth.

Business leaders have echoed this sentiment, highlighting the clear economic logic of fostering closer trading ties with Europe. They have called for swifter and more ambitious measures to reduce barriers and rebuild trade flows. On the financial front, Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey emphasised the value of rebuilding trade relationships with the EU and viewed this initiative as a way to reverse some of Brexit’s economic impacts. Official estimates suggest Brexit has reduced the UK’s long-term productivity by 4%.

As the UK explores avenues for fully participating in EU defence programmes and remains willing to contribute financially, the government is also manoeuvring to ensure that intellectual property and export opportunities for British firms remain protected. These steps underline a determination to balance compromise with securing the nation’s interests. Starmer’s pragmatic approach seeks to blend diplomacy with ambition, offering what he hopes to be a more integrated role for the UK within Europe without reversing the Brexit decision itself.