Closer EU trade ties greater prize for UK than making separate deals, minister says
Douglas Alexander, a former UK trade minister, argues that closer economic ties with the EU, potentially through a customs union or full membership, would yield greater benefits for the UK than pursuing independent trade deals. He highlights the economic advantages of joint trading arrangements, citing the EU's deal with India as an example and noting a shift in government thinking under Andy Burnham.
Why it matters
This article is significant as it reflects a potential shift in the UK's post-Brexit trade policy debate, suggesting a re-evaluation of the economic benefits of closer alignment with the EU. It could influence future political discourse and policy decisions regarding the UK's relationship with its largest trading partner.
Douglas Alexander visit GSK in Mumbai as part of a trade delegation to India. Photograph: X/Douglas Alexander Douglas Alexander visit GSK in Mumbai as part of a trade delegation to India. Photograph: X/Douglas Alexander Trade policy Closer EU trade ties greater prize for UK than making separate deals, minister says Exclusive: Douglas Alexander, on trade delegation to India, talks up economic benefits of joint trading arrangements with Europe
Prefer the Guardian on Google Britain will benefit from much closer trading relations with the EU even if that means giving up its ability to negotiate free trade agreements, the Scotland secretary has said.
Douglas Alexander helped negotiate deals with India and the US when he was a trade minister under Keir Starmer.
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