Starmer denies betrayal of Brexit during Steinmeier visit
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer staunchly rejected accusations of betraying Brexit as he welcomed German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier to Downing Street, reports BritPanorama.
During the meeting, Starmer affirmed that the UK would not rejoin the customs union, despite advocating for enhanced collaboration with the European Union. He faced scrutiny following comments made by key economic adviser Minouche Shafik, who had suggested rejoining the trade bloc to stimulate economic growth.
Starmer expressed his intent to pursue a closer relationship with the EU, stating, “We are getting a closer relationship with the EU on a number of fronts, including on trade and the economy.” However, he reiterated that the government has clear boundaries regarding the single market and customs union.
The Prime Minister emphasized the strength of the UK-Germany relationship, describing it as being in a “very, very strong position.” He articulated a “profound” belief that the connection between the two nations is entering a new chapter.
Earlier this week, Starmer critiqued the manner in which Brexit was presented and implemented, describing previous claims of unfulfilled promises as “wild.” He urged that the UK must accept the reality that Brexit has had a significant negative impact on the country’s economy and called for ministers to focus on reducing tensions with the EU.
“We have to keep moving towards a closer relationship with the EU, and we have to be grown-up about that, to accept that this will require trade-offs,” he noted. He further asserted that his government would not allow itself to drift and would confront the existing realities while aiming to take control of the nation’s future.
Starmer’s remarks signal a continued commitment to navigating the complex landscape of UK-EU relations post-Brexit, emphasizing a pragmatic approach amid diverse political opinions.
The nuances of Starmer’s stance reflect a broader discourse on the evolution of Britain’s international commitments as it grapples with the implications of its departure from the EU.
