UK, EU Reach Brexit Reset Deal on Trade, Fishing, Emissions

The UK and EU have reached a Brexit 'reset' deal aimed at improving post-Brexit relations by reducing trade barriers, particularly sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) checks on food and drink, which should ease border delays and lower grocery costs. However, the deal includes a controversial 12-year extension of EU fishing access to UK waters, which has drawn criticism from Conservative figures who argue it grants excessive concessions and risks returning the UK to being a 'rule-taker' from Brussels. The agreement also contemplates a youth mobility scheme allowing young people from EU countries to live and work in the UK, raising concerns about a potential backdoor return of free movement. While Prime Minister Keir Starmer and government officials present the deal as a pragmatic and beneficial reset that will boost trade, travel, and defense cooperation, opponents highlight the surrender of regulatory sovereignty, particularly through alignment with EU standards on SPS measures and emissions trading, potentially breaching existing free trade agreements. Critics warn that the deal may entangle the UK in EU regulations without proper influence and expose taxpayers to financial liabilities. Supporters emphasize the deal's potential to improve UK-EU relations, reduce border congestion, and secure economic opportunities, framing it as a necessary step away from Brexit-era division.