On 19 May 2025, the United Kingdom and the European Union marked a pivotal moment in their post-Brexit relationship by finalising a comprehensive reset deal. The agreement, reached during the first official UK-EU summit since Brexit, aims to strengthen cooperation across several key sectors.
Key Elements of the Reset Deal
1. Trade and Agriculture
The deal eases trade between the UK and the EU by removing certain border checks on food and agricultural products. British food items, including sausages and burgers, will regain access to EU markets, overcoming previous trade barriers. To facilitate this, the UK has agreed to align with evolving EU food safety and animal welfare standards, under the oversight of the European Court of Justice.
2. Fishing Rights
EU fishing vessels will continue to have access to UK waters until 2038, extending current arrangements by 12 years. In return, the UK will receive £360 million to support coastal communities and the fishing industry.
3. Defence and Security
The UK will join the EU’s €150 billion defence fund, allowing British defence firms to compete for EU contracts. Both parties will enhance cooperation on sanctions, intelligence sharing, and joint defence strategies.
4. Youth Mobility and Education
Negotiations are ongoing for a Youth Experience Scheme to allow young people to live and work in each other’s countries for up to two years. The UK is also exploring rejoining the Erasmus+ programme, which facilitates student exchanges and educational opportunities.
5. Travel and Border Facilitation
British travellers will gain access to EU passport e-gates at more airports, streamlining travel. The deal also simplifies pet travel requirements by removing the need for repeat veterinary certificates.
The deal has attracted mixed responses in the UK. Prime Minister Keir Starmer hailed it as a sensible move to restore relations and boost the economy, while some opposition figures voiced concerns over sovereignty and regulatory ties.
