The UK government is seeking a senior EU negotiator to spearhead Britain’s reset of relations with the European Union, a key initiative led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The Cabinet Office has advertised the high-profile role, offering a salary of £153,000 to £200,000 per year, for a candidate to represent the UK in all dealings with the EU.
The position is described as the “principal adviser to the prime minister and the minister for European Union relations [Nick Thomas-Symonds],” with responsibilities including leading negotiations on the UK-EU relationship and overseeing talks on the renewal of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement in 2025.
This recruitment aligns with Starmer’s vision to repair ties with Europe post-Brexit. Since assuming office, the prime minister has taken significant steps to foster stronger EU relations, including meetings with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Berlin and French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris. He also hosted over 50 European leaders at the European Political Community summit at Blenheim Palace, signaling his commitment to a “constructive” approach in UK-EU negotiations.
Speaking recently, Starmer acknowledged the challenges of resetting UK-EU relations but emphasized his intention to turn the page on past negotiation methods. His aim is to adopt a collaborative stance to address key issues, such as trade barriers, enhanced cooperation to combat criminal smuggling gangs, and unified efforts against global challenges like Russian aggression.
The Conservative Party, however, has criticized this move, accusing Starmer of undermining Brexit and Britain’s sovereignty. Shadow Foreign Secretary Priti Patel stated, “The Conservative party will not stand by and allow the will of the British people to be reversed while Labour arrogantly capitulates to the EU.”
In response, a Labour spokesperson dismissed these claims as “desperate,” reaffirming that there would be no return to EU membership, the customs union, single market, or freedom of movement. Instead, Labour is focused on national interests, seeking pragmatic solutions to trade barriers and fostering international cooperation.
The Cabinet Office, which advertised the negotiator role, has yet to comment on the recruitment. As the UK prepares for 2025 renewal talks, the appointment of an experienced negotiator is expected to be pivotal in shaping the next chapter of UK-EU relations.
