British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is negotiating a new treaty with Germany to secure priority access for British companies, a strategic attempt to repair the UK’s fractured relationship with the European Union after Brexit.
Starmer described Brexit as a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” and stressed the need to “move beyond the crisis” and strengthen close economic and security ties with Europe.
Starmer’s meeting with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz aims to address barriers facing British companies in Germany, such as certification hurdles, complex tendering processes and compliance with local regulations. A source in the prime minister’s office said the government was working to achieve preferential market access while maintaining balanced negotiations.
The treaty discussions come at a pivotal time as Starmer seeks to reshape the UK’s economic landscape amid a tough budget announcement, in which he hinted at higher taxes on the wealthy. He is also due to meet French President Emmanuel Macron later this week.
But Starmer’s push to secure greater freedoms for British businesses has raised questions about potential concessions, including a possible youth mobility scheme that would allow young Europeans to live and work in the UK. Despite the government’s insistence that no such scheme exists, reports suggest the UK could offer limited access in exchange for broader economic gains.
The proposed treaty would cover market access, science, clean energy and trade security, but would not constitute a new EU trade deal. Starmer is also seeking a veterinary agreement with the EU to ease food export checks, with the aim of improving trade flows across the Channel.
In addition to economic discussions, Starmer and Schulz are expected to work together on joint action against illegal immigration, including enhanced intelligence sharing to combat organised migration crime.
As Starmer continues to rebuild relations with Europe, his diplomatic efforts in Berlin and Paris signal a commitment to strengthening the UK’s position as a cooperative partner on key issues such as security and migration.
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