There’s buzz in the air as two crucial UK-EU deals might soon be on the table, with both sides eager to set the stage for a new chapter in post-Brexit relations.
🛠️ A New Approach to Negotiations
Nick Thomas-Symonds, the UK’s chief negotiator, has said the upcoming talks with the European Union will focus on “growth” and marked a break from the “debates and arguments of the past.” As the UK braces for a major summit with the EU in May, it’s clear that both sides are looking to reset the relationship in a more constructive direction.
🌬️ Renewable Energy Deal in the Works?
One of the major points of discussion is the renewable energy sector, particularly offshore wind and marine energy in the North Sea. Ursula von der Leyen, the European Commission president, has urged Keir Starmer to push for a cohesive regulatory framework to encourage investment in clean energy infrastructure.
At the International Energy Agency conference in London, she stressed that both the UK and EU had the resources and potential to make a significant impact in renewable energy. The key, according to von der Leyen, is providing the regulatory certainty that investors are craving.
“If we can provide the certainty investors are looking for,” she said, “the EU and the UK can team up to deliver on what is needed.”
👩🎓 A Youth Visa Scheme?
In a potentially game-changing move, the UK government is also open to the idea of a youth visa deal with the EU. While Labour had previously dismissed such a proposal, more than 60 Labour MPs are now calling for a bespoke visa scheme to make it easier for young people under 30 to study and work across the UK and EU.
The proposal could spark political controversy, with the Conservatives and Reform UK expressing concerns. However, with Brexit’s impact still being felt—particularly in trade and exports—a deal that fosters closer ties between the UK and EU youth might just be the step needed to bridge some gaps.
💔 Brexit Fallout Still Haunting Trade
Despite the ongoing discussions, it’s hard to ignore the lingering effects of Brexit. Best for Britain recently shared a viral video highlighting the sharp decline in UK exports to the EU, which have yet to recover to pre-Brexit levels. In fact, exports remain 11% below their 2019 levels, a stark reminder of the challenges ahead.
With two major deals potentially on the horizon, the big question remains: can the UK and EU finally find common ground, or will the ghosts of Brexit continue to haunt their relationship?. Astonishingly, 4 out of every 10 British products once stocked on EU shelves have now vanished.” @JamesMacCleary MP lays bare the damage Brexit has done.
Related: Watch: Miliband and presenter argue over what’s driving the UK’s sky-high energy prices
