STARMER SIGNALS CLOSER UK-EU TIES – Critics accuse Prime Minister of weakening Brexit settlement
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has also said he wants to build a closer relationship between the United Kingdom and the European Union, prompting fresh political debate over the future direction of Brexit. Speaking ahead of talks with European leaders, Starmer said stronger cooperation with the EU was in Britain’s national interest, particularly on trade, security and energy.
The Prime Minister insisted his government was not seeking to reverse Brexit or rejoin the European Union, single market or customs union. However, critics argue the proposals amount to a gradual erosion of the UK’s post-Brexit independence, with some Conservatives accusing Labour of attempting to “reopen the Brexit debate through the back door.”
Starmer said closer coordination with European partners would help boost economic growth and improve cooperation on issues including migration, defence and supply chains. Government ministers have also pointed to the need for more stable trading arrangements following years of economic pressure and rising costs for businesses.
Opposition figures and several pro-Brexit campaigners warned that any move towards greater EU alignment could undermine the referendum result and weaken Britain’s control over its laws and borders. The renewed row highlights how Brexit remains a deeply divisive political issue, nearly a decade after the UK voted to leave the European Union.
