UK could adopt EU single market rules under new legislation
UK could adopt EU single market rules under new legislation
New legislation may enable the UK to implement EU single market regulations without parliamentary approval. This move is intended to align the country with updated European rules, particularly in food standards. A Labour official shared with the BBC that the measure would “cut business expenses and eliminate the Brexit administrative burden that raises the cost of everyday shopping.”
The UK and EU are currently working on multiple agreements, including those related to food safety and health protocols for animals and plants. The parliamentary bill accompanying some of these deals is anticipated by the end of the year. It will grant the government authority for “dynamic alignment” with European frameworks in areas already covered by existing agreements.
Under this mechanism, Brussels’ new rules would be enacted via secondary legislation, which typically requires minimal scrutiny and lacks amendment opportunities. A government representative clarified: “The bill will proceed through parliament as usual. Any new EU treaties will also undergo parliamentary review, with MPs able to approve additional European laws via secondary legislation.”
“We’re making a sovereign decision to negotiate agreements that reduce trade barriers—where Parliament still has a voice,” said a Labour source.
Labour has historically avoided joining the EU single market or customs union, but this legislation could see partial adoption of European regulations through bilateral deals. Conservative and Reform UK leaders have voiced strong resistance, with Reform UK’s Nigel Farage accusing the plan of being “a covert strategy to reassert EU dominance over Britain.”
Shadow business secretary Andrew Griffith criticized the measure, claiming it would “reduce Parliament to a spectator as Brussels dictates the terms.” Meanwhile, Liberal Democrat MP Munira Wilson emphasized the need for “a stronger European connection while safeguarding parliamentary democracy.”
A UK-EU summit is set for later this year, following a May agreement on issues like fishing rights, trade, defense, and energy. Sir Keir Starmer stated that the upcoming summit will “not only confirm previous commitments but also push for more ambitious outcomes.”
The proposed changes aim to streamline regulatory processes, allowing the UK to secure a £5.1bn annual trade deal in food and drink. This is expected to support British employment and decrease bureaucratic hurdles for producers.
