Britain's planned talks with the European Union could reduce food exporters' paperwork costs, while Prime Minister Andy Burnham wants a broader discussion of the relationship after a Nov. 20 summit in Brussels.
Burnham told Parliament on Oct. 12 that the talks would cover food and drink trade, emissions trading, links between energy systems, a youth experience scheme and immigration cooperation. He projected annual gains to the British economy exceeding £10 billion by 2040 if agreements are reached. The figure is a government estimate.
Farmers and food producers can face paperwork costs of up to £1,400 per shipment, Burnham said. He put the price of an export health certificate for a small business at up to £200. Reducing those expenses is part of his case for easing trade barriers.
How far Britain might eventually move toward the bloc remains a separate question. During the parliamentary exchange, an MP raised joining the EU's customs union or single market, as well as rejoining the EU itself. Burnham endorsed none of those options and said Labour's pledge to remain outside all three still stood. He called for a discussion of longer-term choices after the summit.
Burnham also said he would raise concerns about a European Commission proposal that would favor EU-made goods in selected industrial purchasing and support programs. He sees a risk to British manufacturers. The measure, proposed in March, has yet to be adopted.
A YouGov survey of 2,062 adults in Great Britain on Sept. 24-25 found that 73% supported closer ties without rejoining the EU, single market or customs union. Asked about EU membership separately, 59% supported rejoining.
The Nov. 20 meeting will be the second UK-EU summit. The first, in May 2025, established a strategic partnership. European Council President António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen are due to meet Burnham in Brussels, with a joint declaration expected afterward.
