The UK government has announced its intention to appoint a senior negotiator to spearhead efforts to “reset” relations with the European Union.
The newly created role reflects Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s commitment to fostering closer ties with the bloc, particularly in trade, security, and border management, while maintaining the UK’s post-Brexit stance.
The position, advertised through the Cabinet Office, is described as a “high-profile senior role” carrying significant political and public scrutiny. The successful candidate will serve as the Second Permanent Secretary for European Union and International Economic Affairs, a role equivalent to a “sherpa,” representing the prime minister in international discussions and summits.
The position comes with a salary range of £153,000 to £200,000 and will involve oversight of critical policy areas, including the Windsor Framework, the Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA), and the EU’s forthcoming Entry and Exit Scheme for digital border management.
Renewing EU-UK Ties Without Reversing Brexit
Starmer has been vocal about his desire to improve relations with the EU, advocating for stronger trade agreements than those secured by former Prime Minister Boris Johnson in 2020. However, he has also emphasised that this “reset” does not imply a reversal of Brexit, asserting that his government aims to make Brexit work in the UK’s interests.
During his first visit to Brussels as prime minister in October, Starmer met European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The meeting was described as amicable, with discussions focusing on enhancing cooperation in defence, security, and climate policy. Starmer also highlighted the need for joint efforts to address irregular migration and to bolster economic growth.
A Cabinet Office spokesperson underscored the strategic importance of the new role: “As we reset our relationship with the EU, building closer trade and security links and encouraging more investment from around the world, this new role will oversee that work. Reporting to the minister for European Union relations, they will lead official-level discussions with the EU as we drive economic growth.”
Navigating Economic Crossroads
The announcement comes as the UK faces critical choices about its economic alignment. Stephen Moore, a senior economic advisor to US President-elect Donald Trump, recently commented on the UK’s position between the EU’s economic framework and the more free-market-oriented US model. Speaking on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, Moore suggested that the UK would benefit from embracing the US model of economic freedom. He argued that such a shift could incentivise the Trump administration to pursue a free trade agreement with the UK.
Starmer’s government has expressed interest in strengthening the UK’s trade ties globally, including with the US, but remains focused on optimising the current relationship with the EU to ensure mutual economic and security benefits. The negotiator’s role will be pivotal in addressing complex border policies and trade frameworks, including the Windsor Framework, which deals with trade flows between Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and the TCA, the cornerstone agreement governing post-Brexit UK-EU relations.
