Labour's plans to re-engage with Brussels after the tumultuous aftermath of the referendum will be welcomed by those who view Brexit as a self-inflicted wound. Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves have proposed addressing specific issues in the UK's relationship with the EU. This includes potentially forging closer ties with Europe through a Norway-style deal. While the current proposals focus on discrete issues, there is also the possibility of exploring more ambitious options such as rejoining the single market or even returning to full EU membership. By taking a bolder approach, Labour could potentially reap greater benefits in terms of economic stability, trade opportunities, and cooperation on key issues such as climate change and security. Overall, the path towards closer ties with Europe is still being navigated by Labour, but the potential for a more comprehensive relationship remains on the table.

Economists and diplomats are cautioning that Keir Starmer's growth plan for the UK will not succeed without access to EU markets. They suggest that a Labour government led by Starmer would need to rejoin the customs union to fulfill the party's manifesto promises. A recent poll by Opinium for the Observer reveals that 56% of voters believe Brexit has had a negative impact on the UK economy, while only 12% think it has been beneficial. This highlights the importance of re-establishing ties with the EU to maximize economic growth.

Labour leader Keir Starmer has firmly stated that there will be no rejoining of the EU, single market, or customs union, as reopening the Brexit debate would only lead to "turmoil." Starmer made it clear to reporters that this has never been part of the Labour party's plan, nor is it in their manifesto. "We’re not rejoining the EU, we’re not rejoining the single market or the customs union," Starmer emphasized. "That isn’t our plan. It never has been. I’ve never said that as leader of the Labour party, and it’s not in our manifesto."