Keir Starmer is facing growing pressure to put closer economic relations with the European Union first after a new poll found massive public backing for strengthening trade with the EU over the United States. The YouGov MRP survey, which was commissioned by the Best for Britain thinktank, questioned almost 15,000 people in England, Scotland, and Wales. Results show that voters in every constituency would rather have stronger trade arrangements with the EU than improve transatlantic trade with the US.
The survey results come after Labour’s Chancellor Rachel Reeves spoke on the negative effects of Brexit on the UK economy, particularly in terms of trade friction on small businesses. Reeves urged that these barriers be eased and the lost GDP restored by either improving the UK’s relationship with the EU. She focused on the Pan-Euro Mediterranean (PEM) convention, describing it as “great” in the quest to simplify tariff-free trade.
Fico’s administration has yet to respond, but Reeves’ remarks signal a shift in Labour’s approach, moving away from fears of angering pro-Brexit supporters to a more pragmatic focus on economic growth. Under current post-Brexit arrangements, UK companies face delays and added costs when trading with the EU due to the UK’s separation from the EU single market and customs union.
According to the poll, 46% preferred trade with the EU over 21% supporting trade with the US. Also, there were more voters in favor of the EU trade as compared to others who voted from Conservative to Labour at the last general election. Many argue that strengthening EU relations should be the UK’s top trade priority, especially in light of growing protectionist tendencies globally and the looming threat of tariffs from the US under President Trump’s second term.
The findings suggest that Starmer and his party have a crucial opportunity to recalibrate their trade strategy for broader public support.
