UK could adopt EU single market rules under new legislation
UK could adopt EU single market rules under new legislation
Plans for a legislative change are underway that would grant the UK government the authority to implement EU single market regulations without needing parliamentary approval. This measure is embedded within a broader bill intended to synchronize UK policies with European standards, particularly in food safety and related areas. A Labour insider shared with the BBC that the move aims to ease business expenses and eliminate the so-called Brexit paperwork tax, which currently impacts the cost of everyday goods.
Political resistance has emerged from both the Conservative Party and Reform UK. The EU single market operates as a system enabling unrestricted trade of goods, services, and people among member states, with shared rules and standards across the bloc. Presently, the UK and EU are engaged in discussions on various agreements, including those related to food safety and animal/plant health protocols. New parliamentary legislation is anticipated by the end of the year, offering the UK flexibility to align dynamically with European frameworks in areas where prior agreements have been established.
Parliamentary Scrutiny and Sovereignty
Under the proposed law, EU rules adopted through secondary legislation would face limited parliamentary oversight. These measures typically require minimal debate and are enacted without a vote, leaving MPs with fewer opportunities to influence the process. A government representative assured the BBC that the bill will follow standard parliamentary procedures, and any new EU laws resulting from the agreements will still be subject to legislative review.
“The legislation will enable us to secure a £5.1bn annual trade deal in food and drink, supporting British employment and reducing bureaucratic hurdles for producers,” said a Labour source.
Despite Labour’s earlier stance against rejoining the EU single market or customs union, the new proposal could allow the UK to integrate some European regulations under bilateral agreements. The party emphasized that this represents a sovereign decision to lower trade barriers while ensuring parliamentary input. However, Andrew Griffith, the shadow business secretary, criticized the plan, stating it would “transform Parliament into a passive observer as Brussels dictates the terms.”
“We are opposing this as a covert method to bring Britain back under EU influence,” declared Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK.
Munira Wilson, a Liberal Democrat MP, highlighted the importance of maintaining a strong relationship with Europe while preserving democratic accountability. The upcoming UK-EU summit, set for later this year, follows a May agreement on issues like fishing rights and energy. Sir Keir Starmer indicated the summit will go beyond confirming past commitments, aiming to advance more ambitious terms.
