UK eyes EU single market comeback: EU response revealed
London underground (Photo: Getty Images)
The EU has officially rejected the UK's ambitious proposal to create a single market for goods. Brussels remains unwavering in its rules, even for the sake of rapprochement with London, reports Politico.
London's proposal came amid a domestic political crisis. Prime Minister Keir Starmer promised to make Britain the "centre of Europe" again and wants to secure support and stop talk of his resignation.
The new plan was presented by Michael Ellam, Starmer's chief Brexit negotiator. Ellam recently visited Brussels on an official trip, where he tried to convince European partners of the need for closer ties.
The idea failed as EU officials rejected the initiative. This became another sign of difficulties in the relationship. London was ready to blur its red lines, but that proved insufficient for Brussels.
Nearly ten years after Brexit, the EU and the UK are now conducting a broad review of their relations. A major summit is expected in the coming weeks. Britain seeks significantly closer trade ties, but Brussels is in no hurry to open its market.
What each side wants
Attention has shifted to the details of current negotiations. The parties are trying to clarify trade conditions in specific sectors.
In particular, negotiations concern:
- Food products;
- Agricultural goods;
- The energy sector.
The European Commission is remaining silent on trade for now and is focused instead on the defense of Ukraine.
"We also see scope to deepen cooperation where it matters most now," the publication's interlocutors say. Thus, Brussels is making it clear: security and politics are currently the priority, and economic privileges for Britain will have to wait.
What are the current relations between the UK and the EU?
The EU sees the UK's desire to return to the EU but promises harsh conditions. If the Kingdom decides to return, it may have to give up the pound and join the Schengen zone — concessions that London had before Brexit.
Furthermore, opinion polls in the UK have shown record levels of support for joining the EU, ten years after the breakup. The majority of British residents want to return to the EU.
