London, United Kingdom. Britain will introduce legislation aimed at strengthening its ties with the European Union, as Prime Minister Keir Starmer prioritises improving economic relations with the bloc amid growing calls for him to quit.
European Partnership Bill announced in King’s Speech
King Charles, outlining the government’s legislative programme, said a bill would be introduced to strengthen ties with the EU. The government said the European Partnership Bill would be used to implement agreements with the EU “now and in the future.”
Starmer faces pressure after election losses
Starmer has been under pressure from some lawmakers to quit after Labour suffered significant losses in Scottish, Welsh and local English elections last week. He has said rebuilding the relationship with Europe is central to his plan for the country.
Closer ties sought without revisiting Brexit
Starmer has sought closer ties with the EU while avoiding renewed Brexit debates following Britain’s departure from the bloc in 2020. The government has said Britain needs to align with EU regulations by default in some industries to spur economic growth.
Red lines on single market, customs union and movement
Starmer has maintained commitments that Britain will not return to the EU’s single market or customs union and will not restore freedom of movement with the bloc.
Framework for new deals remains under negotiation
A year ago, Britain and the EU reached a framework to agree new deals on food and drink, emissions trading and electricity, though details are still being negotiated.
Parliamentary role in applying EU law and approving treaties
The government said the bill would ensure agreements with the EU can be implemented now and in the future. It said parliament would have a say before EU law was applied in the UK and that any new treaties applied under the bill would also require parliamentary approval.
Starmer points to next EU summit
In a written introduction to the King’s Speech, Starmer said removing barriers to growth meant “setting a new direction for Britain at the next EU summit, putting Britain at the heart of Europe.”
What do you think the European Partnership Bill could change in the UK’s relationship with the EU?