Senior figures within the UK’s Conservative Party have expressed deep concern over Sir Keir Starmer’s approach to potential trade agreements, particularly regarding relations with the European Union (EU) and the United States (US). As the UK prepares to host a major summit with EU leaders later this month, there are fears that missteps in negotiations could severely undermine the UK's trade prospects and independence.
Former International Trade Secretary Sir Liam Fox voiced his worries about Starmer’s inclination to align more closely with the EU, warning that this could lead to the UK being shackled by EU regulations while lacking any say in their formulation. Speaking to the Express, Fox cautioned, “There is a genuine risk that Starmer, who completely opposed Brexit, will forge a relationship with the EU that leaves Britain accepting regulations we have no ability to influence. This could hamstring our trade negotiations with other nations, including the vital US market.”
Nile Gardiner, director of the Margaret Thatcher Centre for Freedom—a prominent US think tank—echoed these sentiments, highlighting the critical nature of a potential trade deal between the US and the UK. Gardiner emphasized that Starmer's seemingly pro-EU stance poses a direct threat to such an agreement, stating, “Washington has made it clear that tying the British Government to Brussels would be a catastrophic error, undermining the possibility of a robust trade deal with the United States.”
The debate surrounding trade relationships has intensified in light of recent comments from Chancellor Rachel Reeves, who suggested that the UK’s trading relationship with Europe might rival that with the US. Reports indicate that there is consideration of aligning with EU regulations on specific agricultural products, such as fresh meat and dairy, a move that raises alarms among trade proponents who advocate for true independence.
Former Brexit Minister David Jones did not hold back in his criticism, branding Starmer a “fanatical Europhile” for even contemplating a second Brexit referendum. Jones argued that Brexit has empowered the UK to forge independent trade relations, insisting that “Thanks to Brexit, the UK now has the opportunity to navigate its own course globally and secure the best possible terms.” He issued a stark warning that any effort to tether the UK to EU policies could severely restrict its trade capabilities with global powers, especially amidst growing tensions between the EU and the US.
The current situation highlights the increasing uncertainty surrounding the UK's post-Brexit trade strategy as the new Labour government grapples with its relationships with both the EU and the US. With fierce opposition to Starmer's potential policies mounting, the ramifications for future trade negotiations remain a key point of contention among political leaders determined to safeguard the nation’s independence and economic future.
Source: Noah Wire Services