Starmer Seeks Closer EU Ties, Rules Out Customs Union Return

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has ruled out rejoining the European Union’s customs union or single market. However, he has pledged a major "reset" in relations with Brussels, aiming for much closer cooperation. In two key speeches this week, Starmer promised to strengthen ties with the EU. He said his government will pursue a new partnership focused on mutual security and economic interests. The approach seeks to improve trade without returning to the EU's core structures. A customs union is an agreement where members do not charge tariffs, or taxes, on each other's goods and apply a common tariff to imports from outside the bloc. Rejoining it would limit the UK’s ability to strike its own independent trade deals. Starmer's strategy aims to end years of friction following Brexit. The government plans to deepen collaboration in areas like defense, energy, and scientific research.