The new Labour government offers a chance for a new start for UK-EU relations and there are compelling reasons for closer relations. But for better relations the UK will have to both address the causes of Brexit at home and present a compelling offer to an EU that is already moving on. There is much to think through when considering the future of UK-EU relations under a Labour government led by Sir Keir Starmer. But it is essential to start by analysing how and why Brexit happened. Why is the UK the only country to have decided to join but then leave the European project? The responses to this question are crucial for any consideration of where relations might go after the election.
Author: John Peet, Associate and Brexit editor, The Economist.
This essay is available on the Centre for European Reform website.
