Shadow Chancellor Mel Stride Opposes Rejoining EU Single Market Amid Economic Concerns
Stride Criticizes Labour While Emphasizing Trade Opportunities Beyond Europe
Shadow Chancellor Mel Stride has stated that there should be no suggestion of the UK rejoining the EU Single Market or Customs Union.
Speaking on Sky News, Stride emphasized the need for facilitating trade with the EU, the UK's biggest trading partner, without backtracking on the 2016 Brexit decision.
This stance comes amid criticism from Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey, who highlighted Brexit as a factor hindering economic growth.
Stride defended the government's trade strategy, citing 72 free trade agreements including the Trans-Pacific Partnership, a market larger and faster-growing than the EU.
He acknowledged ongoing trade issues, particularly in phytosanitary and veterinary arrangements, and pointed to potential opportunities with the US.
In contrast, Stride criticized Labour for 'talking down the economy' and suggested expanding trade focus globally.
The discussion emerges shortly after ONS reports a mere 0.1% GDP growth, prompting calls from Labour for bolder government measures.
Stride, meanwhile, maintains that the UK must look beyond Europe for economic resilience.
Speaking on Sky News, Stride emphasized the need for facilitating trade with the EU, the UK's biggest trading partner, without backtracking on the 2016 Brexit decision.
This stance comes amid criticism from Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey, who highlighted Brexit as a factor hindering economic growth.
Stride defended the government's trade strategy, citing 72 free trade agreements including the Trans-Pacific Partnership, a market larger and faster-growing than the EU.
He acknowledged ongoing trade issues, particularly in phytosanitary and veterinary arrangements, and pointed to potential opportunities with the US.
In contrast, Stride criticized Labour for 'talking down the economy' and suggested expanding trade focus globally.
The discussion emerges shortly after ONS reports a mere 0.1% GDP growth, prompting calls from Labour for bolder government measures.
Stride, meanwhile, maintains that the UK must look beyond Europe for economic resilience.
