Introduction
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s new trade and cooperation deal with the European Union UK-EU trade, announced on May 19, 2025, marks a dramatic shift in post-Brexit policy. Touted as a “win-win” agreement, it aims to restore trade fluidity, enhance security ties, and revive youth mobility. Yet, nine years after the Brexit referendum, the nation remains deeply divided on whether this move is a bold reset or a betrayal of the original mandate.
What’s in the Deal?
- Trade Facilitation: Fewer customs checks, smoother food import/export processes, and simplified plant and animal product regulations.
- Fishing Concessions: The UK has granted EU fishing fleets continued access to British waters for 12 more years—a move that has enraged UK fisheries.
- Youth Mobility Scheme: A new exchange framework for British and EU citizens under 30 to work and study across borders.
- Security and Defense: Renewed collaboration on intelligence sharing, counterterrorism, and joint military operations.
Positive Reactions
According to polling by The Times, 66% of the public support stronger EU ties. Businesses, especially in food and agriculture, welcomed the easing of import/export bottlenecks. Phil Rusted, a Suffolk-based plant importer, said, “It helps me take on more staff. It’s the best news we’ve had in years.”
The Federation of Small Businesses praised the deal for “untangling the red tape” that hindered SMEs. Similarly, Investec Bank’s chief economist Philip Shaw noted the deal “may add billions to the UK economy by improving supply chain stability.”
Fishermen and Brexit Hardliners Cry Foul
The National Federation of Fishermen’s Organisations called the agreement “a surrender of opportunity.” Many view the extended fishing access as a rollback of sovereignty, especially since the UK will also contribute financially to participate in EU institutions, including oversight by the European Court of Justice.
Former PM Boris Johnson labeled the deal an “appalling sellout.” Critics claim it undermines the 2016 referendum’s spirit, warning this may pave the way for deeper reintegration into the EU.
Public Sentiment: Pragmatism or Betrayal?
The real question is whether this is a tactical trade adjustment or a step toward rejoining the EU in practice. With a majority of the population now favoring closer ties, Starmer argues the deal respects Brexit while correcting its inefficiencies.
Still, voices like Tony Gabana, a young web developer, see it differently: “Whether it’s a good deal or not, it’s a reversal of what people voted for. It doesn’t sit right.”
Conclusion
Keir Starmer’s EU deal may be the most consequential diplomatic pivot since Brexit. It delivers economic relief for some and political friction for others. As Britain recalibrates its position globally, the deal poses a challenge: can the UK embrace pragmatic cooperation without compromising its democratic mandate?
Want to learn more about how Brexit has reshaped UK trade sectors? Read our deep dives below:
