Starmer says closer ties with EU single market preferable to a customs union

"If it's in our national interest then we should consider that, we should go that far, he told the BBC's Laura Kuenssberg. In a riposte to some cabinet colleagues who have suggested the UK should seek to form a customs union with the EU, Starmer said he did not think that was the answer. We are better looking to the single market rather than the customs union for our further alignment, he said."

"He said there would be no return to EU freedom of movement rights as part of any future negotiations, but defended the deal for a youth mobility scheme. We are looking at a youth mobility scheme which will be for young people to travel, to work, to enjoy themselves in different European countries, to have that experience."

"Closer ties with the EU single market are preferable to a customs union, Keir Starmer has said, in his clearest sign yet that the government is seeking to further deepen links with Brussels."

The government prefers closer alignment with the EU single market rather than forming a customs union. The UK has recently completed trade deals with the US and India that are described as in the national interest. Restoration of EU freedom of movement rights will not be part of future negotiations. A youth mobility scheme is being considered to allow young people to travel, work and gain experience in European countries. Ministers and unions have debated potential economic benefits of a customs deal. The minister in charge of EU negotiations was promoted to full cabinet rank.

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