New start: British government announces new agreement with EU

Shortly before a meeting with EU leaders in London next week, the British government announced a new agreement with Brussels. Prime Minister Keir Starmer will outline what a "strengthened, forward-looking partnership with the European Union" that will benefit British workers could look like this Sunday, the government announced in London. The new agreement promises good things for growth and jobs.

"Because the British public deserves better than the agreement reached under the previous government, which benefits no one," the statement continues, alluding to the Brexit agreement. Britain left the European Union five years ago and continues to suffer the economic consequences.

Prime Minister Starmer will host EU Council President António Costa and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Monday. Among other things, the two sides aim to strengthen their trade relations. The deal will benefit British producers, who face bureaucratic hurdles and controls when exporting, it was said. It should also lower prices for British consumers. Britain recently also agreed trade agreements with India and the USA.

According to a report in the Times, a new agreement could also include a youth exchange program (Youth Mobility Scheme) that would allow young people from the EU to work in Great Britain for up to two years and vice versa - but without reintroducing freedom of movement.

"At this time of great uncertainty and volatility, the United Kingdom will not withdraw into itself, but will proudly take its place on the world stage, strengthening its alliances and striking deals in the interests of the British people," Starmer said in a statement.