New Trade Deal: A New Chapter for the UK and EU
The UK and the EU have reached a landmark trade agreement, marking a significant moment five years after Brexit officially took effect. Following six months of negotiations, spurred by Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer’s commitment to a fresh deal after assuming office last July, both sides have come to terms on several key issues that affect citizens, businesses, and the broader political landscape. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the agreement.
eGates for Smoother Travel
One of the most anticipated changes is the introduction of eGates for British passport holders across Europe. This development aims to alleviate the lengthy border control queues that many have experienced in EU countries since Brexit. Passengers can expect a much quicker transit through busy airports and entry points, streamlining travel for both business and leisure.
Pet Travel Made Easy
Pet owners can rejoice as pet passports are set to return. Under the new agreement, cats and dogs traveling from the UK will no longer be required to obtain expensive animal health certificates for each trip. Previously, pet owners faced the burden of securing documentation from vets in both the UK and the EU before returning home, creating inconvenience and additional costs. This move will undoubtedly bring relief to pet lovers eager to cross borders with their furry friends.
Image: Pets will now be allowed to travel on a pet passport instead of having to have a health certificate every time they travel.
Easing Food and Drink Trade
In a bid to cut down on red tape, a new sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) agreement has been established to ease the complexities surrounding food and drink imports and exports between the UK and the EU. This part of the deal has no expiration, meaning it will provide long-term benefits to businesses by reducing the bureaucratic burden.
The government anticipates that this could lead to lower food prices and increased options available on supermarket shelves, as routine checks and certification for many animal and plant products will be eliminated. Notably, British favorites such as burgers and sausages, which have faced restrictions since Brexit, will be allowed back into the EU market.
Fishing Rights: Stability for the Industry
The fishing deal that was initially agreed upon in 2020 will continue into the next 12 years, without an increase in fish quotas. EU fishing vessels will still have access to UK waters but must possess valid licenses, and negotiations will occur annually regarding access and stock sharing.
Additionally, the UK government is investing £360 million into modernizing the fishing industry. This investment aims to advance technology, enhance workforce training, support coastal communities, and boost seafood exports, ultimately revitalizing this vital sector.
Image: British fishing rights will continue for 12 years.
Strengthening Defence Partnerships
The agreement also includes the establishment of a new security and defense partnership. This will facilitate the UK’s participation in the European Union’s £150 billion defense fund, known as Security Action for Europe (SAFE). Such collaboration is anticipated to generate thousands of jobs for British citizens while enhancing overall maritime security and accident reporting.
Environmental Cooperation
On the environmental front, the deal fosters closer cooperation on emissions by linking the UK and EU’s emissions trading systems. This means that UK businesses will avoid the impending EU carbon tax, saving around £800 million, which would have otherwise directly benefitted the EU.
A Win for the Steel Industry
Special provisions have been made to protect British steel exports from new EU tariffs and regulations, amounting to an annual saving of £25 million. This safeguard is crucial for the UK’s steel industry, which has faced numerous challenges since Brexit.
Continued Discussions
The agreement is not limited to these immediate benefits; several further talks have been scheduled on various topics.
Youth Mobility Scheme
Discussions will include a youth mobility scheme that would enable individuals aged 18-30 to move freely between the UK and the EU for limited durations. This program would encompass working, studying, volunteering, and even au pairing opportunities.
Erasmus Program Revival
There is a mutual commitment to work towards resurrecting the Erasmus program, which facilitated student exchanges and was a casualty of Brexit. This revival would provide exciting opportunities for students on both sides.
Crime and Migration Cooperation
The UK and the EU have also agreed to enhance collaboration in combating crime, particularly through accessing EU facial image data to identify dangerous criminals. Additionally, they will work together to address illegal migration challenges, including efforts to facilitate visa issuance for workers and recognition of professional qualifications.
Electricity Market Participation
Lastly, both parties aim to explore the UK’s involvement in the EU’s internal electricity market, looking into trading platforms that could benefit consumers on both sides.
With a myriad of potential impacts on travel, trade, and citizen’s rights, this new trade deal signifies a noteworthy evolution in the UK-EU relationship, presenting opportunities for collaboration and growth in various sectors.
