Next week, the United Kingdom and the European Union will meet for their first full summit in London. Their publicly-stated intention is to develop an overarching security and defense treaty. This development highlights the ongoing efforts of both parties to enhance cooperation in defense matters while navigating complex political dynamics.
The expected security pact would pave the way for greater UK engagement in EU-wide defense procurement initiatives. This is perhaps the most fundamental change to post-Brexit relations so far. In addition, the deal is likely to open up a loans scheme to British defense companies, further strengthening the UK’s nascent defense industry.
A principal aspect of the negotiations has been the EU’s insistence upon a youth mobility scheme. This ambitious new program provides young people with tremendous opportunities. They may study and work in the UK and EU countries for a limited time. Indeed, the UK retorted earlier that it has “no plans” for such a reciprocal scheme. Yet, even as Congressional appropriation zeal seems somehow necessary, its stance has cracked in recent weeks.
European relations minister Nick Thomas-Symonds says the government is willing to engage with “sensible EU proposals in this space.” This is a huge step away from the UK’s historic restriction of youth mobility.
She said that there are still “quite one or two elements” of a deal to be agreed upon. She added, ” I believe we’re past the fish. This would seem to indicate that the contentious discussions over fishing rights, which have thus far overshadowed all other issues in negotiations, are finally close to resolution.
Challenges remain. On the EU side, France is looking for a long-term deal that guarantees French access to fisheries in the UK waters at current levels beyond 2026. Gibraltar aside, the UK’s attitude towards a complete UK-EU picture is lurking on the shoulders of the ongoing discussions. Spain’s Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares made it clear that a deal on Gibraltar was essential. He thinks this agreement is needed to provide the UK-EU relationship with a stronger basis.
The political landscape across the UK is just as engaged and affected by these exciting new developments on wheels. Some Conservative Party members have expressed concerns that any agreement related to youth mobility may effectively “reintroduce free movement by the back door.” Priti Patel, a prominent Conservative figure, has asserted that “Labour cannot be trusted with our Brexit freedoms,” highlighting fears that compromises could undermine the principles of Brexit.