Emily Thornberry didn’t hold back when she responded to Nigel Farage’s criticism of the government’s deal with the European Union. Farage, leader of Reform UK, accused the government of “surrendering” to Brussels over a deal that is still in progress.
But Thornberry, a Labour MP, wasn’t impressed with his dramatic language. She fired back, saying: “That’s a big word for him, isn’t it?”
💥 Farage Slams the Deal
Farage’s comments came ahead of a UK-EU summit at Lancaster House, where Keir Starmer is set to unveil the deal. The agreement aims to reset Britain’s relationship with the EU and includes several key provisions. Farage, however, is far from pleased.
One of the main elements of the deal is a youth mobility scheme. This would allow UK and EU citizens aged 18-30 to travel freely between the two. The deal would also give British holidaymakers the chance to use e-gates at European airports, bypassing long queues for passport stamps. Additionally, the agreement will make trade easier between the UK and EU by simplifying veterinary and food rules.
However, Farage’s main gripe is over a provision that grants French fishermen greater access to British waters. In return, the UK is set to secure a security and defence deal with Brussels. To Farage, this is a “surrender.”
🚨 Thornberry’s Retort
Thornberry hit back during an appearance on LBC. She said Farage’s arguments were out of touch with what the public cares about.
“I don’t think the public thinks that’s relevant,” she explained. “I think they think it’s political elites talking to themselves, and it’s not really about real life.”
She pointed out that people are more interested in practical benefits. For example, they want to export sausages to France without delays, travel to Europe without passport stamps, and use e-gates at airports.
🌍 Youth Mobility Scheme: No Big Deal
Thornberry also took issue with Farage’s “surrender” claim over the youth mobility scheme. She reminded him that the UK already has 13 such agreements in place with other countries, and nothing catastrophic has happened.
“The sky hasn’t fallen in,” Thornberry said. “I think youngsters in Britain would like to travel in Europe, so it has to be reciprocal.”
🔍 The Bigger Picture
The EU deal, set to be unveiled at Monday’s summit, has divided opinions. While Farage and other Brexiteers have been vocal in their opposition, Thornberry’s defence shows Labour’s commitment to working with the EU for Britain’s benefit.
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