Keir Starmer has signalled that Labour could seek a closer relationship with the European Union if it wins the next general election, as he prepares to publish his party's manifesto.
Starmer's EU Shift
The Labour leader used a press conference at the G7 summit in Italy to indicate that his party would pursue a “closer trading relationship” with the EU and hinted at a potential return to the single market or customs union. This marks a significant departure from the party's previous stance of accepting Brexit.
Starmer said: “We want to make Brexit work, but that doesn't mean we can't improve our relationship with our closest neighbours. The current deal is not working for Britain.”
Manifesto Promises
Labour's manifesto, due to be published next week, is expected to include commitments to reduce trade barriers with the EU, seek a veterinary agreement to ease food exports, and negotiate a mutual recognition of professional qualifications. Starmer also hinted at the possibility of rejoining the EU's Erasmus student exchange programme.
- Closer alignment with EU regulations on goods
- Improved cooperation on security and defence
- Potential participation in EU science and research programmes
Conservative Reaction
The Conservatives accused Starmer of planning to “reverse Brexit by the back door”. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said: “Labour's plan would take us back to square one, reopening old divisions and undermining our ability to strike trade deals around the world.”
However, Starmer insisted that Labour would not rejoin the EU or the single market, but would seek a “more mature” relationship. “We are not talking about reversing Brexit. We are talking about making it work better for the British people,” he said.
Business and Union Support
Business groups welcomed the prospect of closer ties with the EU, with the Confederation of British Industry calling it “a pragmatic step that could boost growth”. Some trade unions also expressed support, though others warned against any dilution of workers' rights.
The Labour leader's comments come as polling suggests that a majority of Britons now think Brexit was a mistake, and support for rejoining the EU has grown. However, Starmer faces internal party divisions, with some Labour MPs urging a more cautious approach to avoid alienating Leave voters.
The G7 summit has focused on global trade, climate change, and security, but Brexit has dominated the UK's bilateral meetings. Starmer held talks with EU leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, who said the EU was open to improving ties with the UK “if the political will is there”.
