Alliance Calls For UK To Rejoin Single Market And Customs Union

The Alliance Party has called for the UK to rejoin the Single Market and Customs Union, with a view to rejoining the EU.

Sorcha Eastwood made the call on the fifth anniversary of Brexit, as her party launched its new policy paper 'Stronger Together: Resetting our Relationship with Europe'.

Among its other suggestions are a comprehensive agriculture, food and drink agreement to reduce checks between GB and Northern Ireland, bespoke access to EU funds to support local businesses and organisations, the introduction of a youth mobility scheme, cross-border visa exemptions for international tourists, and a stronger voice for Northern Ireland in Brussels.

Lagan Valley MP Ms Eastwood, said: "The five years since the UK formally left the EU has brought increased chaos and instability for the UK economy and for our politics. "Alliance warned there was no such thing as a good or sensible Brexit. Successive attempts have been made to mitigate the impact on Northern Ireland, though each of these have been imperfect.

"Only a full reversal of Brexit can undo all of the contradictions, tensions and limitations which it has posed. That is why Alliance, as a passionately pro-European party, wants to see the UK foster the closest possible relationship with the EU, with the ultimate ambition being rejoining. As the first step on that journey, rejoining the Single Market and Customs Union would smooth many of the problems facing people and businesses across Northern Ireland.

"This policy paper is not about rehearsing the same circular arguments, but instead seeks to set out a range of practical and pragmatic steps which could be taken ahead of the UK rejoining the EU which would reset our relationship, grow the economy, and cut red tape and costly Brexit bureaucracy.

"Our relationship with the Europe is about more than trade – it is about our ability to tackle global challenges and the kind of future we want to build. We are more dynamic, more vibrant, and stronger together."