The EU's Tough Stance on Sir Keir Starmer's Post-Brexit Reset
Sir Keir Starmer's attempt to build closer ties with the European Union after Brexit faces a significant challenge. Top diplomats have warned that the EU will take a tough stance, demanding concessions in return for any new relationship.
Tough Negotiations Ahead
Sir Keir will be the first British Prime Minister to attend a dinner with EU leaders since Brexit. While he hopes to discuss a security and defense deal, the EU has made it clear that progress on this front is contingent on giving ground on other issues. These include EU access to Britain's fishing waters and a youth mobility scheme.
EU's Demands
The EU views a youth mobility scheme, allowing young people to move and work freely between countries, as a key sticking point. Additionally, access to Britain's fishing waters, currently set to expire next year, is another crucial demand.
One diplomat stated, "It worked for us the first time around with Boris and it will work for us again with Starmer." This highlights the EU's strategy of linking various issues, creating a package deal where progress in one area depends on progress in others.
Downing Street's Hesitation
Downing Street has so far refused to agree to a youth mobility deal, fearing it would be seen as a return to freedom of movement and a betrayal of Brexit. This reluctance could hinder negotiations and limit the scope of any potential agreement.
EU's Focus on Security
Despite the tough stance, the EU acknowledges the importance of the UK as a key partner in defense. European Council president António Costa stated that the discussion with Sir Keir will focus on the defense dimension of the relationship.
Criticism of Starmer's Approach
Starmer's post-Brexit reset has been criticized as lacking ambition and clarity. The UK's top post-Brexit think tank, UK in a Changing Europe, believes that EU policy is peripheral to Starmer's government and that lower economic growth is a likely outcome of his strategy.
Conclusion
Sir Keir Starmer's attempt to build closer ties with the EU faces a significant challenge. The EU's tough stance and demands for concessions could lead to difficult negotiations and limit the scope of any potential agreement. The success of Starmer's post-Brexit reset hinges on his ability to navigate these challenges and find common ground with the EU.
9 Comments
Pupsik
Starmer's post-Brexit reset is a disaster in the making. It will weaken the UK and make us more vulnerable to the EU.
Marishka
I don't trust Starmer to get a good deal for the UK. I'm worried he'll cave in to the EU's demands.
Pupsik
Starmer's lack of ambition is disappointing. We need a leader who is willing to stand up for the UK's interests.
Marishka
A youth mobility scheme would be a win-win for both the UK and the EU. It would allow our young people to gain valuable experience and skills. Let's make it happen!
Pupsik
Starmer is clueless about how to negotiate with the EU. We need someone with more experience and toughness.
Leonardo
The EU's focus on security is a positive sign. It shows that they understand the importance of a strong UK-EU partnership.
Michelangelo
Securing a good security and defense deal with the EU is crucial for our national security. I'm glad Starmer is prioritizing this issue.
Donatello
It's understandable that Downing Street is hesitant about freedom of movement. But we need to find a way to balance our immigration concerns with the benefits of a close relationship with the EU.
Michelangelo
Giving in to the EU's demands is a betrayal of Brexit! Starmer is weak and willing to sell out the British people.