UK may pay for single market access under Starmer's reset

Officials say legislation expected next month could align UK rules with the EU on areas such as food and electricity and may require financial contributions for closer single market access.

The government is pursuing closer alignment with the European Union as part of what Downing Street calls a reset. Ministers and some Labour MPs say closer ties could bring economic benefits, while Sir Keir Starmer has said full re-entry to the customs union or single market is off the table. Brussels sources and diplomats have told journalists that further access would likely require following EU rules and making financial contributions. Key points: - Legislation expected as soon as next month could sign the UK up to EU rules on food standards, the electricity market, animal welfare and pesticide use. - Downing Street argues there are clear benefits to closer alignment, while Sir Keir has said he will not pursue full re-entry to the customs union or single market. - Brussels sources and diplomats have said the bloc’s red lines mean the UK would likely need to meet EU rules and contribute financially to gain deeper access. Summary: Officials report that proposed legislation could bring parts of UK law into closer alignment with EU rules and may involve financial contributions. The Prime Minister frames the move as a pragmatic reset and has ruled out full re-entry to the customs union or single market. Legislation is expected as soon as next month.