Brexit warning: Starmer told kowtowing to EU rules will not improve UK living standards
A former Brexit adviser has warned that Labour’s plans to align with EU standards would “severely constrain” Britain’s ability to reduce costs for families.
Trade consultant Shanker Singham cautioned that the proposed EU reset must be viewed in a wider context of improving living standards.
“The new Government’s mission is to increase household income and decrease household costs. Their success will depend on this,” Singham told The Sun.
He urged the Government to carefully consider whether potential changes would negatively impact their ability to improve Britain’s regulatory system for generating greater household income.
His stark warning comes amid revelations of Brussels’ demands in exchange for softer goods checks and a security pact.
The leaked demands include calls for access to British fishing waters.
Brussels is also seeking the return of free movement for under-30s.
The EU’s demands would additionally involve handing power back to European judges.
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Singham expressed particular concern about how EU alignment could impact Britain’s position in key trade relationships.
He warned that dynamic alignment with EU rules could jeopardise the UK’s membership in the CPTPP, which is viewed as a significant Brexit benefit.
“Dynamic alignment or an agreement that required it would make it difficult to do a deal with the US to avoid Trump tariffs, or even to remain a member of the CPTPP,” he said.
Instead of aligning with EU rules, Singham suggested Britain should unilaterally recognise EU standards in specific sectors like food and medicine.
His proposal would allow manufacturers to produce different products for export to other markets.
Labour has maintained that its proposed reset of EU relations does not signal an intention to rejoin the bloc.
A Government spokesman said: “This Government is resetting its relationship with the EU and wants to strengthen cooperation, to make people safer and tackle barriers to trade, to help drive economic growth.
“We have been clear that there will be no return to the customs union, single market or freedom of movement. The UK Government will always work to protect the interests of our fishers.”