STARMER MOVES TO ALIGN UK WITH EU RULES – Plans to adopt 76 EU directives in push for closer single market ties
Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to bring dozens of European Union regulations back into UK law, in what would mark a major step towards closer alignment with the single market.
The plans will be outlined in the King’s Speech in May, with legislation expected to transfer around 76 EU directives covering sectors such as agriculture and food standards.
The changes would pave the way for a wider trade deal with the EU, potentially aligning UK rules with areas including food hygiene and agricultural production.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves has already signalled support for closer regulatory alignment, saying it is in the “national interest”, while suggesting most industries would fall under EU-style rules unless there is a strategic reason not to.
The move comes as senior ministers, including Business Secretary Peter Kyle, hint that Labour’s current stance on the EU could evolve.
The proposals are expected shortly after May’s local elections, where Labour is preparing for a difficult electoral test.
