Labour's commitment to reducing Brexit-related barriers for exporting food and farm products to the European Union has resurfaced in political discussions, as EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic suggested possible new agreements. Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Sefcovic indicated that dynamic alignment on standards could facilitate smoother trade between the UK and the EU. This proposal, however, has sparked controversy among UK political parties, with Conservatives expressing outrage over reports of a potential deal.
Shadow Foreign Secretary Dame Priti Patel criticized the government's approach, accusing it of "bending the knee to the EU." Her comments underscore a broader Conservative unease about aligning too closely with EU regulations post-Brexit. Meanwhile, the Liberal Democrats, led by Sir Ed Davey, have argued that the government is not doing enough to ease trade relations with the EU.
"It is time for a proper UK-EU customs arrangement so we can strengthen our negotiations with Donald Trump, cut the red tape on our businesses and grow the economy." – Sir Ed Davey
Amid these discussions, Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds met with Sefcovic in Davos. Reynolds expressed gratitude for Sefcovic's "incredibly positive" remarks and emphasized that proposed ideas such as a veterinary agreement with dynamic alignment do not infringe upon the government's established red lines. Reynolds also highlighted the UK's openness to adopting EU rules for food and farm products to restore frictionless market access.
"No, that's part of our manifesto, an SPS agreement, a veterinary agreement." – Jonathan Reynolds
The potential new deal remains under negotiation, with firm decisions yet to be finalized. Nonetheless, Reynolds remains optimistic about achieving improved trade terms without revisiting contentious Brexit issues.
"We can improve the terms of trade with the EU in a way which doesn't revisit customs unions or single markets or the arguments of Brexit, and we can do that whilst pursuing closer trade links around the world." – Jonathan Reynolds
In contrast, President Donald Trump has suggested that accessing American markets could cost the world trillions of dollars, adding another layer of complexity to the UK's trade negotiations. Reynolds has been preparing the UK's case to preempt potential US tariffs on exports.
The EU's suggestion to eliminate barriers hinges on the UK's willingness to follow dynamic alignment—a process where UK standards would change in accordance with EU regulations. This approach aligns with Labour's manifesto pledge to mitigate Brexit-related barriers for exporters.
"These latest reports that the government might shackle us to the European Union are deeply concerning, and once again make clear that Keir Starmer and his chums are all too happy to put their ideology ahead of our national interest, no matter the cost." – Dame Priti Patel