On a warm morning at London’s historic Lancaster House, European and British leaders gathered to discuss the continent’s future cooperation, marking the first formal UK-EU summit since Brexit. The meeting, hosted by Foreign Secretary David Lammy, focused on pressing geopolitical issues, including the war in Ukraine, continental security, and the possibility of a renewed partnership with the EU.
This new initiative, championed by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, reflects Labour’s post-election pledge to foster “an improved and ambitious relationship” with Europe. The summit is seen as a symbolic step forward, or, to critics, a backslide into European entanglements.
Security Pact: Complement or Compromise?
Central to the summit’s agenda is a proposed UK-EU Security and Defence Partnership, which was notably excluded from the original Brexit deal. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas acknowledged past tensions but emphasized the need for forward momentum.
While Conservative voices warn the pact could undermine NATO and resurrect EU overreach, the government insists it would complement NATO by addressing wider threats like cybercrime, infrastructure sabotage, and migration. Industry leaders, including ADS Group’s Kevin Craven, argue the pact could unlock EU funding, such as the €150bn SAFE programme, boosting the UK’s defence industry.
Border Frictions and the Veterinary Deal
Equally contentious is a proposed veterinary agreement to ease food and drink border checks. The plan aims to reduce post-Brexit trade friction, especially for small exporters burdened by red tape. However, aligning with EU regulations could invite political backlash. Critics like Conservative Andrew Griffith call it a “surrender summit,” fearing it cedes regulatory control back to Brussels.
Fishing, Trade, and Youth Mobility
Other friction points include fishing rights, with current EU access to UK waters set to expire next year. Former Brexit Secretary David Davis urges the UK to “tough it out” and use fishing as leverage, but access to EU markets remains crucial for British fish exports.
Meanwhile, Labour has signaled openness to a youth mobility scheme, allowing under-30s to live and work across UK-EU borders. Although it would be strictly controlled, critics argue it could resemble Freedom of Movement, a key Brexit flashpoint.
A Step Forward, Not a Step Back
Despite warnings from Conservatives and Reform UK of a “Great British sellout,” Labour ministers insist they are not rejoining the Single Market, Customs Union, or restoring Freedom of Movement. Rather, their goal is “making Brexit work” through pragmatic cooperation.
Experts are divided: some see the summit as a cautious yet meaningful reset, while others doubt it will lead to transformative change. Former trade negotiator David Henig calls it “a step forward, not a step change,” and Jill Rutter of UK in a Changing Europe sees potential for broader cooperation if initial deals succeed.
As UK leaders prepare to host their European counterparts, the question remains: is this renewed diplomacy a betrayal of Brexit, or a necessary evolution of it? The answer may shape Britain’s place in Europe for years to come.
Written By Rodney Mbua
