Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has declared that the United Kingdom is ready to align more closely with the European Union's single market, should such a move serve the national interest. The statement marks a significant step in the ongoing evolution of post-Brexit relations.
"Go Further" on Single Market, But Customs Union Ruled Out
In an interview on the BBC's Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg programme, Sir Keir pointed to recent sovereign decisions to align with the EU on agriculture and food standards. He insisted Britain should "go further" in strengthening ties with Brussels, following a trade deal agreed earlier in the year.
However, the Prime Minister appeared to dismiss the prospect of the UK rejoining a customs union with the bloc, despite his Health Secretary, Wes Streeting, recently highlighting the "enormous economic benefits" of such an arrangement. Sir Keir acknowledged having argued for a customs union for years but stated that "a lot of water has now gone under the bridge."
He explained that, having secured trade deals with nations like the US and India, the government's focus for further alignment should be on the single market rather than the customs union.
Freedom of Movement Remains a "Red Line"
When pressed on what concessions the UK might offer Brussels in return for closer single market ties, Sir Keir was unequivocal in ruling out a return to the EU's principle of freedom of movement. He firmly rejected the idea of allowing EU citizens to come to the UK without limit.
Instead, he indicated the government is exploring a youth mobility scheme. This would allow young people from the UK and EU countries to travel, work, and gain experience across borders, without committing to full freedom of movement.
Political Pressure and Accusations of "Brexit Betrayal"
The Prime Minister's comments follow renewed internal and external pressure on the UK's future relationship with Europe. The speculation was reignited after Mr Streeting's interview with the Observer, in which he backed a "deeper trading relationship."
Sir Keir also faces pressure from within his own party, with around 13 Labour MPs recently backing Commons proposals that could pave the way for a customs union. Despite this, Downing Street stated in December that the government's "red lines"—which include not rejoining the single market, customs union, or freedom of movement—remain in place.
The Conservative opposition was swift to criticise the Prime Minister's stance. Shadow Foreign Secretary Dame Priti Patel accused Labour of a "Brexit betrayal," claiming Sir Keir was "surrendering our freedom" to appease backbenchers and trying to "undo the democratic decision of the British people."
Conversely, the Liberal Democrats argued the government was being "too timid." Party leader Sir Ed Davey reiterated calls for a UK-EU customs union to tackle the cost-of-living crisis, boost growth, and put money back in people's pockets.
