The European Union wants to lock in its long-awaited Brexit “reset” with Britain as quickly as possible after a new prime minister takes office, amid concern in Brussels that Nigel Farage’s Reform UK could complicate efforts to deepen ties if negotiations drag on, according to POLITICO.
A planned UK-EU summit due to take place on July 22 was postponed following Keir Starmer’s resignation. EU officials now want it rescheduled “as soon as possible,” with October seen as the most likely date.
The package under negotiation includes new rules on food and agricultural trade through closer alignment on phytosanitary standards, linking the UK and EU emissions trading systems, and a reciprocal youth mobility scheme allowing young adults to live, study, travel, and work across the Channel for limited periods.
Talks are also continuing on British participation in the EU’s €90 billion defence procurement scheme for Ukraine and closer integration with the bloc’s internal electricity market, although neither is expected to be finalised immediately.
Former Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham is widely seen as the frontrunner to replace Starmer, and officials on both sides reportedly expect little change in Britain’s negotiating position under a new Labour leader.
British Europe Relations Minister Nick Thomas-Symonds travelled to Brussels this week for talks with EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič as both sides seek to maintain momentum. Officials cautioned, however, that significant work remains before any agreements can be signed.
