Starmer wants a “closer partnership” with the EU

Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated on Wednesday, April 1st, that global instability caused by the war with Iran means the UK must prioritise strengthening economic and defence ties with Europe, highlighting this as the central focus of an upcoming summer summit with the European Union. Starmer emphasised that while the UK will continue to defend its national interests, long-term stability requires closer cooperation with European allies. He aims for an “ambitious” reformulation of relations to undo some of the “deep damage” caused by Brexit, though he clarified that rejoining the EU customs union or single market is not in his plans. Despite this, he expressed an ambition to improve market access through potential alignment with EU standards. Starmer also rejected the idea that this shift is a choice between Europe and the United States, arguing that a stronger European relationship actually bolsters the UK's position with the US, especially regarding defence and security.