Starmer in Brussels to discuss EU-UK relations

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer will hold a series of keenly-watched meetings later today in Brussels with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and other senior EU officials.

The talks will broadly approach the prospects for a reset in EU-UK relations under the new Labour government, with both sides expected to discuss fisheries, energy, migration, security and a mobility scheme for young people on both sides.

Diplomats have described the encounters as an opening discussion on what both sides hope will be a closer relationship than that which endured under successive Tory governments.

Mr Starmer will first meet Ms von der Leyen before holding talks with European Parliament President Roberta Metsola and later the outgoing president of the European Council, Charles Michel.

Although the mood music has been better, the prime minister's red lines of not rejoining the single market or customs union have left some on the EU side wondering how far he is prepared to go to negotiate a closer relationship.

Downing Street has already ruled out an opening offer from the commission for young people to travel more freely on both sides of the English Channel, although diplomats suggest a new offer from the EU side will be forthcoming.

Fisheries will be a sensitive issue, not least for the Irish fishing sector.

The current arrangements, enshrined in the post-Brexit trade agreement, will be reviewed in 2026 and they are linked to the two-way energy market.

Britain also wants greater flexibility for artists and musicians to tour the EU.

Former prime minister Boris Johnson ruled out more favourable arrangements for British bands when the trade deal was concluded on the basis that it might be seen as creeping free movement.

Today’s meetings will test the waters and there is talk of an EU-UK summit in the first part of next year.