Prime Minister Keir Starmer is encountering increasing opposition in Parliament over the government’s approach to resetting the UK’s relationship with the European Union.
The government has set out plans for closer cooperation with the EU in areas such as trade, security, research and regulatory standards. Ministers argue that a more pragmatic relationship would reduce friction, support economic growth and improve the UK’s standing with European partners, while maintaining that there are no plans to rejoin the single market or customs union.
Critics, particularly on the Conservative benches, have accused the government of pursuing closer alignment with EU rules by stealth. They warn that any shift toward regulatory alignment risks undermining the outcome of the Brexit referendum and could limit the UK’s ability to set its own policies independently.
The issue has prompted sharp exchanges in the House of Commons, with opposition MPs demanding greater clarity about what a “reset” would involve in practice. Questions have also been raised about whether Parliament will have a meaningful role in approving future agreements with the EU.
Supporters of the government’s approach say the policy reflects economic and geopolitical realities, arguing that improved cooperation with the EU is necessary to address shared challenges. However, analysts note that Brexit remains a deeply sensitive issue, and even limited changes to the relationship can trigger strong political reactions.
As talks with EU counterparts continue, the government faces the challenge of balancing economic pragmatism with political caution, while seeking to secure parliamentary support for its plans.
