British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer will visit Brussels next week for what is described as a significant meeting with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and an important part of his efforts to “reset” the UK’s post-Brexit relationship with the EU.
This meeting, confirmed on September 25 after initial discussions at the UN General Assembly in New York, marks Starmer’s first formal engagement with Von der Leyen since becoming prime minister in July.
The two are expected to discuss a range of issues, including trade, security, and migration, as part of Starmer’s vision to improve the UK’s ties with the EU.
Sir Keir has long expressed his desire to rebuild Britain’s relations with the EU, emphasising while he does not intend to reverse Brexit, he is eager to establish a closer partnership in economic cooperation, defence, and professional exchanges.
In a post on the social media platform X, Starmer reiterated his goal: “I want to reset our relationship with the EU and make Brexit work for the British people. Looking forward to visiting Brussels next week to start discussions with @vonderleyen.”
I want to reset our relationship with the EU and make Brexit work for the British people.
Looking forward to visiting Brussels next week to start discussions with @vonderleyen. pic.twitter.com/WZ2TQWZato
— Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) September 25, 2024
The EU, in turn, signalled its willingness to engage in these talks, proposing measures like a youth mobility scheme for those aged 18 to 30, aimed at fostering cultural and professional exchanges.
On this front, Starmer has until now been cautious, resisting any steps that his opponents might describe as a return to free movement, a politically sensitive topic with the rising prominence of immigration in UK political debate.
Reports suggest the Prime Minister may try to dilute the mobility proposal to avoid reigniting immigration debates. This represents a weak flank for his government, both due to internal tension within the Labour party, and the likelihood of attack from Conservatives favouring a more restrictive immigration policy.
Starmer’s meeting with Von der Leyen follows a series of diplomatic engagements by Downing Street with key European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz.
The upcoming talks are expected to be the start of a lengthy process, in which the EU is likely to ask for such concessions as better access to British fishing waters.
Starmer also hopes to secure a security pact to enhance collaboration on defence and intelligence, areas where the UK can contribute to European efforts.
His government has tasked Nick Thomas-Symonds, the minister for EU relations, with laying the groundwork for these discussions.
The UK Government has used Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s current visit to Italy to open the door to a deal similar to Rome’s third-country processing agreement with Albania. https://t.co/jlenugcgoT
— Brussels Signal (@brusselssignal) September 16, 2024
