David Miliband has called for a 'national consensus' on rejoining the European Union, responding to revelations that the UK government proposed a single market for goods with the EU. The former foreign secretary, now president of the International Rescue Committee, argued for a 'much higher dosage' in resetting relations with the bloc.
Miliband's Stance on EU Reset
Speaking on BBC Radio 4's Today programme, Miliband said he was 'absolutely convinced' that UK security and prosperity depend on an 'institutionalised, deep and strong relationship with the rest of Europe.' He criticised the current reset, worth only £9bn by 2040, as insufficient for a £3tn economy.
When asked about rejoining the EU, Miliband stated: 'What we have to do is build a national consensus about our position with the European Union. I'm very happy with it as a long-term goal.' He acknowledged that the pre-2016 deal is no longer available.
EU's Changing Dynamics
Miliband noted the EU's profound changes, with Ukraine's potential membership becoming a key issue. 'The big issue for Brussels today is not Britain joining; it's Ukraine joining,' he said, referencing discussions on associate membership.
On Friday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy criticised a German proposal for 'associate' membership as unfair, as it would leave Kyiv without a vote. The proposal, by Chancellor Friedrich Merz, would allow Ukraine to participate in EU meetings without voting rights as an interim step.
Labour Leadership and National Debate
Regarding Labour leadership, Miliband focused on policy over personality, highlighting challenges like global instability, technological change, and youth unemployment. 'If we spend all our time talking about who, not what, we're going to miss the point,' he said.
When asked if Labour needs a new leader, Miliband replied: 'When the world changes, we have to change. And in the two years since the general election, the world has changed fundamentally.'
Expert Views on UK-EU Relations
Mike Galsworthy, chair of European Movement UK, urged the government to hold open conversations with businesses and the public about the UK's global role. He said joining the single market would be 'economically helpful' but not address the nation's direction. 'We want to be full team players,' he added, stressing the need for democratic and constructive dialogue.
