New British minister for EU relations makes first visit to Brussels

The minister responsible for the UK's relations with the European Union travelled to Brussels on Monday for an official visit to the European Commission. Nick Thomas-Symonds will meet Commission vice-president Maros Sefcovic for what the government in London said would be the first talks to "reset" the relationship.

Thomas-Symonds' visit comes on the eve of a summit of the European political community in Oxford on Thursday. There, Britain's new prime minister, Keir Starmer, who led Labour to victory in the general election two weeks ago, will welcome some 45 leaders from the EU and neighbouring countries.

The creation of a new UK-European security pact to boost defence cooperation with key partners such as France and Germany is at the forefront of Starmer's agenda. London wants a better deal with the EU than the trade agreement secured under Conservative prime minister Boris Johnson. More generally, it wants to repair the damage caused by Brexit and the protracted negotiations over a withdrawal agreement.

"Our government wants to reset the relationship with the European Union, strengthening our ties, enhancing our security and tackling barriers to trade," Thomas-Symonds said before leaving for Brussels. "Especially in times of war, climate change and illegal migration, a strong alliance between the EU and the UK is vital."

Labour has already said that the UK will not seek to rejoin the EU. A return to the European single market, customs union or free movement of people has also been ruled out. The Commission's proposal for a youth mobility scheme for 18-30-year-olds could be the first point of discussion. This would allow young Britons to live and work in the EU for up to four years, while EU citizens could move to the UK. However, the Labour Party has already rejected the proposal.


Nick Thomas-Symonds, the minister responsible for the UK's relations with the European Union © PHOTO THOMAS KRYCH/ZUMA PRESS WIRE


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