Brexit: Labour vows new pact with EU to fix Britain's 'tarnished' reputation

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer and Labour shadow foreign secretary David Lammy
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer and Labour shadow foreign secretary David Lammy
Stefan Rousseau
Carl Bennett

By Carl Bennett


Published: 24/01/2023

- 11:20

Updated: 14/02/2023

- 10:21

The Labour MP wants to create a 'Britain Reconnected'

Labour's shadow foreign secretary David Lammy is today setting out plans to rebuild Britain’s “tarnished” reputation should the party win at the next election.

The senior frontbencher will deliver an address at Chatham House about how a Labour government would “reset” British foreign policy to reverse the country’s “tarnished international reputation”.


The Labour MP wants to create a “Britain Reconnected.”

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Aaron Chown

Under the proposals, Labour says it will improve UK prosperity by resolving the Northern Ireland protocol debate and tackling climate change.

Lammy also wants to ease tensions between the UK and the EU with talks on food and medical supplies, professional standards, science and research by having regular summits on the issues.

In his speech, the shadow foreign secretary will say: "A failure to clearly define the goals of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office around modern challenges leave the UK ill-equipped to face the future.

"It doesn't have to be this way. The UK is home to cutting-edge technology and services, world-leading universities, vibrant cultural industries, and it has the potential for unparalleled global connections.

"Labour will reset our foreign policy to create a Britain Reconnected, for security and prosperity at home. With the right priorities, the right partnerships and the right values, Britain can, and will, thrive."

Shadow Northern Ireland secretary Peter Kyle (left), shadow cabinet office minister Baroness Chapman and shadow foreign secretary David Lammy during their visit to Foyle Port in Londonderry, Northern Ireland. Picture date: Monday January 16, 2023.
Shadow Northern Ireland secretary Peter Kyle (left), shadow cabinet office minister Baroness Chapman and shadow foreign secretary David Lammy during their visit to Foyle Port in Londonderry, Northern Ireland.
David Young

Speaking to Times Radio, he added: “Britain finds itself disconnected and isolated in most of the global communities.

“We need to reconnect with global allies.”

Mr Lammy highlighted the need for a new security pact with the European Union to protect the UK from cyber threats, and the “weaponising” of energy supplies and artificial intelligence.


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