UK Debates Joining EU Trade Scheme Amid Backlash

The UK government has been involved in discussions about potentially joining the Pan-Euro-Mediterranean Convention (PEM), a trade agreement that facilitates tariff-free trade across Europe and parts of North Africa. Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds sees potential benefits without violating Brexit 'red lines', while Labour faces criticism for potentially aligning with EU rules. Labour's openness to exploring the PEM has been met with backlash from both Reform UK and the Conservative Party, who warn against losing Brexit freedoms. However, UK ministers, including Matthew Pennycook and Nick Thomas-Symonds, clarified that the UK currently has no plans to join PEM, despite considering its benefits. Prime Minister Keir Starmer aims to improve UK-EU relations but maintains firm boundaries against rejoining the EU customs union or single market. The EU's trade chief Maros Sefcovic has suggested the UK consider PEM, emphasizing the decision lies with the UK, and the proposal remains under consultation.