Thornberry Urges Starmer to Cut ‘Unnecessary’ Post-Brexit Border Checks
In a move to push Keir Starmer to undo the harms of Brexit, Emily Thornberry, the newly elected chair of the foreign affairs committee, has called for the elimination of what she deems as “unnecessary checks” at the border. Thornberry believes that small businesses should not have to give up trading with the European Union due to unnecessary friction caused by border checks. She also expressed confidence that a Labour government could develop a proper trading relationship with the EU for the first time since the UK’s departure.
Thornberry’s comments come as the European Union plans to offer Starmer a youth mobility scheme as part of efforts to improve relations with Europe. However, Starmer previously rejected the idea of such an arrangement before the general election, disappointing some of his own supporters. Despite this, Thornberry remains steadfast in her push for a closer relationship with the EU, emphasizing the need to address the gaps in Boris Johnson’s Brexit deal.
Addressing the Gaps in Boris Johnson’s Brexit Deal
Thornberry criticized Boris Johnson’s Brexit deal, stating that it contains “almighty great holes” that need to be addressed. While acknowledging that the UK will not rejoin the EU, single market, or customs union, Thornberry highlighted the importance of filling the gaps in the agreement to ensure a closer relationship with European partners. She emphasized the need for mutual recognition of safety standards and professional qualifications, as well as the removal of unnecessary checks at the borders to facilitate smoother trade with the EU.
The former shadow foreign secretary also raised concerns about the UK’s approach to international trade, particularly the Pacific trade deal pursued by the previous government. Thornberry emphasized the significance of maintaining a strong trade relationship with European allies and neighbors, citing the EU as the UK’s largest trading partner. She questioned the logic of prioritizing a trade agreement across the Pacific while neglecting the existing trade agreement with EU partners, stressing the importance of fostering closer ties with Europe.
Building a Stronger Relationship with European Allies
Thornberry reiterated the importance of the UK’s relationship with European partners, describing them as friends, allies, neighbors, and relatives. She emphasized the need for a comprehensive and mutually beneficial trade agreement with the EU, highlighting the benefits of closer economic and cultural ties. Thornberry expressed confidence in the ability of a Labour government to strengthen the UK’s relationship with the EU, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing growth and cooperation with European partners.
In her push for a closer relationship with the EU, Thornberry outlined specific areas for improvement, including mutual recognition of safety standards and professional qualifications. She also called for a reduction in unnecessary border checks to facilitate smoother trade for small businesses exporting to the EU. Thornberry’s focus on enhancing trade relations with Europe reflects a broader commitment to fostering stronger ties with key international partners and ensuring the UK’s economic prosperity post-Brexit.
