British Prime Minister Keir Starmer delivers his keynote speech at Britain's Labour Party's annual conference in Liverpool, Britain, September 30, 2025. File Image/Reuters
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Firstpost05-01-2026, 15:17

Starmer Eyes Closer EU Single Market Ties for UK's 'National Interest'

  • PM Keir Starmer suggests "closer alignment" with the EU single market, citing UK's "national interest" amidst economic crisis.
  • Starmer prefers single market over rejoining a customs union, a shift from his previous stance due to new trade deals.
  • Ongoing talks with Brussels include food/drink and youth mobility, but full freedom of movement is ruled out.
  • The move faces strong criticism from Reform UK and Conservatives, who label it a "Brexit betrayal."
  • Starmer maintains any alignment must serve national interest, ruling out rejoining EU single market/customs union or ending freedom of movement as per manifesto.

Why It Matters: Starmer signals a strategic shift towards deeper EU single market ties for UK economic benefit.

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