Chicago – Janaury 03, 2026
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has indicated the UK should pursue greater alignment with EU markets, particularly the single market, if it serves national interests. In a BBC interview with Laura Kuenssberg, he emphasized advancing beyond current ties without rejoining the single market, customs union, or restoring freedom of movement. Starmer highlighted ongoing alignment in food and agriculture regulations to boost trade access.
He stated: “I think we should get closer, and if it’s in our national interest to have even closer alignment with the single market, then we should consider that”. This pragmatic, sector-by-sector approach follows deals with the US and India, fostering the strongest UK-EU relationship in a decade. Amid Labour Party pressure for warmer EU ties to spur growth, Starmer reaffirmed Brexit’s security while looking forward.
The comments come as the UK evaluates post-Brexit enhancements without ideological reversals.
