Labour Party leader Sir Keir Starmer has stated his intention to seek a closer trading relationship with the European Union if his party wins the next general election. However, contrary to some reports, official Labour policy does not advocate for the UK rejoining the EU's Single Market or Customs Union.
Starmer has outlined ambitions to negotiate a new UK-EU security pact and improve the existing Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA). Key goals include reducing trade barriers for British businesses, particularly in sectors like agriculture and creative industries, and seeking a veterinary agreement to ease border checks.
Experts note that any significant deepening of the trade relationship would require the UK to align more closely with EU regulations, a politically sensitive issue. The Labour leader has ruled out a return to freedom of movement. Any future negotiations would be complex, requiring unanimous approval from all 27 EU member states.
The Conservative government has criticized the prospect of closer alignment, framing it as a loss of UK sovereignty. The next UK general election, which must be held by January 2025, will be a key determinant of the future direction of UK-EU relations.
