Politics Weekly UK Will the UK ever rejoin the EU?
Sep 12, 2025
Nick Thomas-Symonds, Labour MP for Tilvain and Minister for EU Relations, shares his insights on the aftermath of Brexit and the UK's evolving relationship with the European Union. He discusses Labour's strategic approach to EU ties and the importance of youth initiatives in rekindling connections. The conversation also delves into the challenges facing Labour, particularly with the Welsh elections and the party's leadership under Keir Starmer, highlighting the urgency for meaningful changes to win back public trust.
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Personal Relationships Won The Deal
- Nick Thomas-Symonds recounts building personal relationships with EU counterparts to secure rapid agreement within ten months.
- He describes a close working rapport with Maroš Šefčovič that helped negotiations despite hard-headed bargaining.
Public Mood Favors Practical Reset
- Thomas-Symonds argues public mood wants to move past Brexit battles and build a closer UK-EU relationship for national interest.
- He links the common understanding to jobs, lower bills and stronger border security as tangible benefits.
Choose Dynamic Alignment To Cut Costs
- Do choose dynamic alignment selectively with high-standard jurisdictions to cut business costs and reduce export barriers.
- Implementing sanitary and phytosanitary alignment will remove burdens like export health certificates and reopen markets for British products.