Prime Minister Keir Starmer has clarified that the UK’s efforts to reset relations with the European Union will not mean reversing Brexit. Speaking at a joint news conference with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Berlin, Starmer emphasized the UK’s commitment to maintaining its post-Brexit stance while seeking closer ties with Europe.
Closer Ties, Not Reversal
Starmer stated that the reset aims to foster a closer relationship with the EU on various fronts, including trade, defense, and cultural exchanges. However, he was clear that this does not imply re-entering the single market or the customs union. The UK remains firm on its decision to leave the EU, and this reset is about improving cooperation, not undoing Brexit.
New Treaty with Germany
During the conference, Starmer and Scholz discussed a new bilateral treaty aimed at enhancing cooperation between the UK and Germany. This treaty, expected to be signed by early next year, will cover areas such as defense, energy security, and technology. The leaders also agreed on a joint action plan to tackle illegal migration and smuggling gangs by sharing intelligence and data.
Economic and Cultural Collaboration
Starmer highlighted the economic benefits of the reset, aiming to boost trade and create jobs. He also mentioned the importance of cultural and educational exchanges, although he ruled out a youth mobility scheme. This scheme, proposed by the EU, would have allowed young people to live and work in the UK and vice versa. Starmer insisted that the planned treaty with Germany had “nothing to do with youth mobility.”
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, Starmer expressed hope for a better trade deal with the EU than the one negotiated in 2020. However, it remains uncertain whether Brussels will entertain significant changes to the existing agreement, which is due for review in 2026. Starmer’s approach is to seek incremental improvements in UK-EU relations without compromising the core principles of Brexit.
In sum, the UK’s reset with the EU is about building a stronger, more cooperative relationship without reversing Brexit. Starmer’s stance is clear: closer ties, yes; reversal, no. This balanced approach aims to deliver economic growth and enhanced cooperation while respecting the UK’s post-Brexit sovereignty.
Source:
(1) Starmer: Reset with EU will not reverse Brexit
(2) Politics latest: Starmer continues EU relations ‘reset’ plans in talks with Macron
(3) Starmer wants reset with EU – ‘but that does not mean reversing Brexit’