Source · Select Committees · Foreign Affairs Committee
Recommendation 59
59
Not Addressed
In particular, in light of recent comments by Ministers, we also ask the Government to...
Recommendation
In particular, in light of recent comments by Ministers, we also ask the Government to clarify if it is reconsidering its “red lines” for the EU negotiations, particularly on the Single Market and customs matters, or if it can envisage any circumstances in which it would be prudent to do so. (Recommendation, Paragraph 163)
Government response summary AI-generated
The government restates its commitment to its existing 'red lines' and highlights existing areas of alignment with the Single Market, but does not directly address whether it is reconsidering those red lines or envisages circumstances in which it would be prudent to do so.
Summary of the government's response below — read the verbatim text to verify.
Government Response
Not Addressed
HM Government · verbatim extract
Not Addressed
The Government was elected on the basis of manifesto commitments to reset relations with our European Partners, while sticking to our red lines – that we will not return to the Customs Union, Single Market, or freedom of movement. That is what this Government has delivered – though we are clear there is more to do. There are clear areas where closer alignment with the EU can benefit UK businesses, drive growth, create jobs and lower prices. We are already aligning with the Single Market in some areas to drive down the prices of food and energy. This could add up to £5.1 billion a year to our economy, increase agricultural exports to the EU by 16%, and mean lorries will spend less time in queues at the border. Ultimately, this could reduce pressure on food prices for consumers. The Government will look at other areas where the UK and EU can work together, as set out in our manifesto. Deeper economic integration is in our collective interest. As the Prime Minister has stated, we want closer economic cooperation with the EU. It will benefit British businesses, British workers and British security, The Government will continue to take a pragmatic, sector-by-sector approach. We recognise the importance of engaging industry as part of the UK-EU negotiations process, and the Government is in regular dialogue with stakeholders through both formal TCA fora, like the Domestic Advisory Group and the Civil Society Forum, and departmental-led fora on specific thematic issues. Turning to recommendation 24 - In June 2025, Mr Lammy wrote to the Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee to share the executive summaries of Sir Martin Donnelly’s reviews conducted in a personal, voluntary and unpaid capacity and independently from government, and the department’s response. It would not be appropriate to provide additional detail on individual review recommendations, which were made as independent advice to the former Foreign Secretary. The overall findings of the reviews have collectively provided an important input into the FCDO 2030 programme.
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