The prime minister hints at closer EU single market alignment, triggering fury and fresh Brexit fears

Sir Keir Starmer has reignited one of the most divisive debates in modern British history by signalling that the UK could move closer to the European Union’s single market, reopening Brexit wounds many believed had finally begun to heal. In remarks that sent an immediate tremor through Westminster, the prime minister suggested that further alignment with EU rules could be pursued if it served the national interest.

Starmer made clear that his government is prepared to reconsider aspects of Britain’s post-Brexit settlement, arguing that ideology should not stand in the way of economic pragmatism. He acknowledged that, while Brexit is now settled history, the reality of governing requires a constant reassessment of what best supports jobs, growth, and stability in a rapidly changing global economy.

The single market, which removes barriers to trade between EU countries, remains a sensitive symbol for millions of voters. For critics, any move towards it represents a betrayal of the 2016 referendum. For supporters, it offers a path back to smoother trade and closer cooperation with the UK’s nearest neighbours. Starmer’s comments appeared to straddle that fault line, neither fully embracing nor outright rejecting deeper integration.

He stopped short of calling for a return to the EU or a full re-entry into the single market. Instead, he framed the issue as one of alignment rather than membership, emphasising that Britain would not rejoin EU institutions or surrender formal control over policy. He also reiterated that the government has no plans to re-enter a customs union or restore free movement, both of which remain political red lines.

Even so, the reaction was swift and fierce. Opponents accused Starmer of attempting to reverse Brexit by stealth, warning that regulatory alignment would inevitably pull the UK back under Brussels influence. Senior figures on the right described the shift as dangerous and dishonest, claiming it risks eroding the sovereignty voters were promised nearly a decade ago.

Within Labour’s own ranks, the comments reflect an ongoing internal debate. Some MPs have pushed for closer economic ties with Europe, arguing that post-Brexit trade barriers have damaged British businesses and limited growth. Others remain cautious, mindful of the electoral risks of reopening a question that fractured communities and reshaped the political landscape.

Beyond Parliament, business groups have long argued that closer alignment with EU standards could ease friction at borders and reduce costs for exporters, particularly in sectors such as manufacturing, food and professional services. For them, the debate is less about identity and more about competitiveness in an unforgiving global market.

Starmer’s remarks come at a time when the UK is navigating complex trade relationships across the world, while also facing stubborn economic pressures at home. Rising costs, sluggish growth and concerns over long-term investment have intensified calls for a more pragmatic approach to Europe, even among some who supported Brexit.

Yet the political risks are undeniable. Brexit remains a potent symbol, capable of mobilising anger and loyalty in equal measure. Any perception that the government is edging back towards the EU could harden opposition and reshape political alliances ahead of future elections.

For now, Starmer insists that his approach is guided by realism rather than nostalgia. He argues that Britain must be flexible enough to adapt to changing circumstances, even when doing so revives uncomfortable conversations. Whether this signals a genuine shift in policy or simply a recalibration of tone, one thing is clear. By reopening the question of Europe, the prime minister has dragged a long-buried national argument back into the spotlight.