Starmer rejects EU customs union after Lammy comments

BBC NewsFriday, December 5, 2025 at 6:05:29 PM
Starmer rejects EU customs union after Lammy comments
  • Prime Minister Keir Starmer has rejected the idea of the UK joining a customs union with the EU, following comments from Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy, who suggested that countries in such unions benefit economically. Starmer's stance indicates a firm position against closer ties with the EU in this regard.
  • This development is significant as it highlights Starmer's commitment to a distinct post-Brexit identity for the UK, potentially impacting trade negotiations and the Labour Party's broader economic strategy amidst rising tax concerns.
  • The rejection of a customs union reflects ongoing debates within UK politics about the best approach to economic recovery and trade relationships post-Brexit. While the Liberal Democrats advocate for a new customs union to stimulate growth, Starmer's position underscores the complexities and divisions within political parties regarding the future of UK-EU relations.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

Was this article worth reading? Share it

Recommended apps based on your readingExplore all apps
Continue Readings
EU hits Musk’s X with $140m fine for ‘deceptive’ blue tick, ad transparency
NegativeWorld Affairs
The European Union has imposed a landmark fine of approximately $140 million on Elon Musk's social media platform, X, for deceptive practices related to user verification and insufficient transparency in advertising. This penalty marks the EU's first significant enforcement action under its new digital regulations, highlighting the bloc's commitment to ensuring accountability in the digital space.
EU hits Elon Musk's X with $140 million fine over business practices
NegativeWorld Affairs
The European Commission has imposed a fine of approximately $140 million on Elon Musk's social media platform, X, due to misleading practices related to user verification and insufficient transparency regarding advertisements and data access for researchers. This penalty highlights ongoing regulatory scrutiny of digital platforms under EU laws.
'You can't build peace just with Russia': Ex-EU Commissioner Moscovici on US-led Ukraine talks
NeutralWorld Affairs
Former EU Commissioner Pierre Moscovici emphasized that peace in Ukraine cannot be achieved solely through negotiations with Russia, amidst ongoing US-led talks. He highlighted the instability in France and the broader European context as critical factors influencing diplomatic efforts.
Diplomacy to end Ukraine war gets bogged down: Europe's leadership vacuum?
NegativeWorld Affairs
Diplomatic efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict in Ukraine have stalled, with U.S. negotiations in Moscow yielding no significant compromises on key territorial issues. The European Union's role has diminished, primarily reacting to U.S. proposals while continuing to support Ukraine through coalition meetings.
David Lammy suggests UK would benefit from rejoining an EU customs union
PositiveWorld Affairs
Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy has proposed that the UK should consider rejoining a customs union with the EU, suggesting that such a move could yield economic benefits for the country. This statement comes amid ongoing discussions about the UK's post-Brexit trade relationships and economic strategies.
UK-EU youth mobility scheme could let tens of thousands live and work abroad
PositiveWorld Affairs
UK ministers are working towards finalizing a youth mobility scheme with the EU by the end of 2026, which would allow tens of thousands of young British and European citizens to live and work in each other's countries. This initiative is part of a broader effort to reset Britain's relationship with Europe following its exit from the EU six years ago.
Labour announces plans to lift 550,000 children out of poverty – UK politics live
PositiveWorld Affairs
Labour leader Keir Starmer has announced a strategy aimed at lifting 550,000 children out of poverty, describing it as a 'moral mission' that will include initiatives for childcare support and assistance for families in temporary housing. This announcement comes amid ongoing discussions about the economic challenges facing the UK.
EU hands €120m fine to Elon Musk's X for breaking social media rules
NegativeWorld Affairs
The European Commission has imposed a €120 million fine on Elon Musk's social media platform X for breaching social media regulations, leaving users exposed to scams and manipulation. The violations included issues related to deceptive verification badges and insufficient transparency in advertising practices.