Brexit Redux: Labour's New Europe Minister Heads to Brussels
Starmer's government seeks to 'reset' UK-EU relations while maintaining Brexit stance
All aboard the train to Brussels for more Brexit talks
(UK Government)
Daily TribuneStarmer's government seeks to 'reset' UK-EU relations while maintaining Brexit stance
All aboard the train to Brussels for more Brexit talks
(UK Government)
Just days after Labour's landslide victory, the UK's new government has wasted no time in addressing post-Brexit relations with the European Union. Nick Thomas-Symonds, the newly appointed minister for EU relations, traveled to Brussels on Monday for face-to-face talks with Maros Sefcovic, the EU Commission's vice-president and pointman on UK ties.
The meeting, described as constructive by both parties, focused on strengthening security and economic cooperation. Thomas-Symonds tweeted that the discussions aimed "to create a safer and more prosperous Europe." This marks a significant shift from the previous Conservative government's approach, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer vowing to "reset" the UK-EU relationship and reduce trade frictions (The Independent).
However, Labour has made it clear that rejoining the EU, the customs union, or the single market is not on the table. The EU, while open to improving ties, has stated it will not renegotiate the existing Brexit agreements. Potential areas for cooperation include a new defense and security pact and discussions about free movement for young people (AFP).
The Brussels meeting sets the stage for Thursday's European Political Council summit at Blenheim Palace, where Starmer will host European leaders. This gathering will provide a crucial platform for the new Prime Minister to present his ideas for closer UK-EU ties to his European counterparts, as he seeks to balance improved relations with the EU while maintaining the Brexit status quo (AFP, The Independent).
Sources: Agence France-Presse (AFP), The Independent