BREAKING: Health Secretary Wes Streeting is under fire for suggesting that the UK should consider rejoining a customs union with the EU, a move critics claim prioritizes political ambitions over his responsibilities to the NHS. In an interview with the Observer, Streeting argued that a “deeper trading relationship” with Europe could bolster economic growth, directly challenging Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who has firmly ruled out such changes.
This controversial statement comes just weeks after Starmer reaffirmed the government’s stance against a customs union, leading to accusations from Conservative Party officials that Streeting is more focused on “political pitch-making” than on healthcare. Richard Tice, deputy leader of Reform UK, labeled the proposal a surrender of crucial Brexit freedoms.
During the interview, Streeting acknowledged the economic benefits of the customs union, stating, “The reason why leaving the EU hit us so hard as a country is because of the enormous economic benefits that came with being in the single market and the customs union.” He emphasized the need for a closer trading relationship with Europe while simultaneously ruling out a return to freedom of movement.
“The best way for us to get more growth into our economy is a deeper trading relationship with the EU,” Streeting asserted.
Streeting’s remarks have sparked concern within his own party. On December 9, 2023, 13 Labour MPs voted in favor of the Customs Union (Duty to Negotiate) Bill, which aims to explore a customs union, though its chances of becoming law remain slim. This internal division highlights the mounting pressure on Starmer from backbenchers advocating for a softer approach to the EU.
Critics argue that Streeting’s comments distract from pressing healthcare issues. A Conservative spokesperson stated, “Instead of focusing on running the health service, Wes Streeting is busy courting left-wing, pro-EU Labour Party members.” They called for a Health Secretary dedicated to delivering real results for patients and NHS staff.
Streeting has previously denied ambitions to replace Starmer, insisting he supports the Prime Minister. He remarked, “The closer I see that job and the pressure on Keir and the demands of that job, the more I wonder why anyone would want it.” However, his recent statements suggest a desire to carve out a distinct position within the party.
The implications of Streeting’s proposal are significant. Rejoining the customs union would enable tariff-free trade with the EU but would also require adherence to common standards, potentially undoing trade agreements made post-Brexit with countries like the US and India.
As the debate intensifies, all eyes are on Labour’s leadership and its stance on EU relations. Will Streeting’s comments lead to a significant shift in party policy or further fracture the Labour coalition? The coming days will reveal whether this issue takes center stage in ongoing political discussions.
For now, Streeting’s challenge to Starmer has ignited a firestorm of criticism and debate, emphasizing the urgent need for clarity in Labour’s approach to Brexit and the future of the NHS.
