Starmer Advocates Sector-by-Sector Alignment with EU Markets While Rejecting Rejoining Single Market or Freedom of Movement
Labour leader Keir Starmer has signaled a preference for the UK to move toward closer alignment with EU markets if it serves the national interest, emphasizing a sector-by-sector and issue-by-issue approach. This alignment would build on post-Brexit trade deals with countries like the US and India to justify tighter ties with the EU. Starmer prefers alignment with the single market over rejoining the customs union but rules out rejoining the single market entirely or restoring freedom of movement.
Downing Street has maintained red lines set in December, reaffirming that the UK will not rejoin the single market or customs union nor return to freedom of movement. The government continues to align with Brussels on regulations concerning food and agriculture to facilitate single market access, with relevant rules to be implemented in the coming year.
Within Labour, there is pressure from backbenchers to pursue closer EU links to promote economic growth, including discussions about joining the customs union. Trade unions and political figures have voiced their views: Paul Nowak described a close relationship with the EU as crucial for growth, while Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy noted that rejoining the customs union is not current policy but highlighted Turkey’s customs union model as a point of reference.
The youth mobility scheme and Erasmus program were also topics of conversation. Starmer stated that restoring freedom of movement is not under consideration but expressed support for Erasmus as a scheme for study, exchange, and research opportunities.
Starmer’s remarks constitute his most detailed public outline yet of how a post-Brexit reset with Brussels could proceed, framing it as a sovereign decision by the UK.
