Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy has highlighted the economic advantages enjoyed by countries with customs unions, as the government faces growing pressure to strengthen ties with the European Union, reports The Times. Lammy’s comments come amidst a concerted effort by No. 10 to mend the fractured relationship with Brussels following Brexit.

Speaking candidly on the News Agents podcast, Lammy acknowledged that “leaving the European Union badly damaged our economy,” emphasizing that closer economic ties have proven beneficial for other nations. While clarifying that rejoining the customs union is “not currently where we are,” Lammy pointed to Turkey as an example of a country thriving under a partial customs union with the EU.

Starmer ramps up Brexit criticism as Labour targets Reform UK

As the Labour Party gears up to make relations with Brussels a central focus of its campaign against Reform UK, the Times outlined how Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has intensified his critique of Brexit. In a recent speech in the City of London, Starmer lambasted Britain’s EU departure as an “utterly reckless” foreign policy move, slamming the “wild promises” made by Leave campaigners in 2016.

Brexit red lines

Pressed on whether Britain should rejoin the customs union, Lammy reiterated that Brexit “took us out of an important marketplace and created serious friction.” He also took aim at the “untruths” peddled by those who championed leaving the European Union, asserting that Britain’s future is “inextricably linked” to the EU and that the government should work to foster closer ties over time.

Despite Lammy’s comments, a spokesman for the deputy prime minister clarified the government’s stance, stating, “Our red lines are clear: there will be no return to the single market or the customs union. We are putting the national interest first, building a closer trading relationship with Europe that is good for jobs, bills, and borders.”

German president: ‘Don’t look back in anger’

In a symbolic gesture, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, who served as foreign minister during the 2016 Brexit referendum, cited the Oasis song “Don’t Look Back In Anger” as he celebrated a new chapter in UK-EU relations.

While acknowledging the disappointment and uncertainty felt at the time of the split, Steinmeier urged both sides to look to the future rather than dwelling on the past.

He declared “Cool Britannia is alive” and that the love between the UK and EU remains despite the changed relationship.