UK Labour PM Starmer Signs Controversial EU Deal Extending Fishing Access, Rejoining Emissions Scheme

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has unveiled a new post-Brexit trade deal with the European Union, which he described as delivering the British public's vote while granting unprecedented access to the EU market. The agreement includes concessions such as extending EU fishing rights in British waters for 12 more years and adopting EU rules on food and agricultural exports via 'dynamic alignment,' sparking accusations that it undermines UK sovereignty and subjects the country to EU regulations without voting power. The deal also contemplates a 'youth mobility scheme' allowing thousands of young EU citizens to live and work in the UK annually, raising concerns about a backdoor reintroduction of free movement and potential impacts on wages and housing. Critics, including former Prime Minister Boris Johnson and opposition figures like Nigel Farage and Kemi Badenoch, have denounced the deal as one-sided, claiming it sacrifices UK interests, particularly in fishing, and makes the UK a 'non-voting member' of a two-tier EU. Supporters argue the deal removes uncertainties around annual negotiations and facilitates smoother trade, although it reignites political divisions over Brexit’s legacy and the UK's future relationship with the EU. The EU has agreed to consult the UK on rule changes, but the European Court of Justice will retain some jurisdiction, fueling further debate over sovereignty.