3rd Report – From a Common Understanding to Common Ground: Building a UK-EU Strategic Partnership fit for the future

Select Committee
Foreign Affairs Committee HC 857 4 March 2026
Report Status Government responded
Conclusions & Recommendations 85 items (33 recs)
Source View on Parliament website
Government Response (AI assessment · 67 of 85 classified)
Accepted 15
Accepted in Part 1
Acknowledged 41
Deferred 3
Not Addressed 6
Rejected 1

Recommendations

33 results
4 Deferred
We ask the Government to provide an update on its envisaged timetable for publication and...
Recommendation
We ask the Government to provide an update on its envisaged timetable for publication and ratification of the draft UK-EU Agreement on Gibraltar. Given its constitutional and political importance, we also request that the Government makes time in the House … Read more
Government Response Summary
The Government recognizes parliamentarians' interest in the Treaty and states that the Committee’s views on holding a debate will be conveyed to the relevant parties for consideration in the scheduling of parliamentary business. They anticipate ratification in early 2027.
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
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6 Accepted
While the fisheries deal represents an extension of the status quo, the Government also had...
Recommendation
While the fisheries deal represents an extension of the status quo, the Government also had the option of using the end of the adjustment period to reduce access to its waters for EU vessels from 2026, or to offer an … Read more
Government Response Summary
The government defends the fisheries agreement by saying it provides stability to the fishing industry and secures reciprocal access to EU waters, highlighting existing mechanisms for parliamentary scrutiny and funding for coastal communities.
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
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9 Acknowledged
We ask the Government to confirm if the European Commission’s commitment to ‘duly reflect’ historic...
Recommendation
We ask the Government to confirm if the European Commission’s commitment to ‘duly reflect’ historic UK export volumes of Category 17 steel in its new steel tariff regime means that historic UK volumes of such exports will still be able … Read more
Government Response Summary
The government states that it is committed to finding a bilateral solution with the EU on steel measures that protects vital UK-EU steel trade and both industries, following the EU's announcement of future steel trade measures in October 2025.
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
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12 Accepted
We urge the Government to continue discussions with the EU and its Member States with...
Recommendation
We urge the Government to continue discussions with the EU and its Member States with respect to the coordinated use of immobilised Russian Sovereign assets to provide financial support to Kyiv, to ensure that Russia pays for the damage it … Read more
Government Response Summary
The Government reaffirms its commitment to coordinate with the EU and its Member States to provide aid and assistance to Ukraine, including in Ukraine obtaining compensation from Russia. They state they are already leveraging immobilised Russian assets to support Ukraine and will continue to work closely with the G7 and EU.
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
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16 Acknowledged
The EU’s regrettable approach to the Security Action for Europe (SAFE) negotiations does not negate...
Recommendation
The EU’s regrettable approach to the Security Action for Europe (SAFE) negotiations does not negate the need for improved UK-EU cooperation on defence industrial matters as a matter of strategic urgency. We therefore recommend the Government continue to seek a … Read more
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledges the need for cooperation on defence but states it was unable to conclude negotiations with the EU and remains committed to pursuing cooperation with the EU and will continue to engage bilaterally with the EU Commission and EU Member States.
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
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17 Accepted
We also recommend the Government continues to monitor other EU defence initiatives closely, including the...
Recommendation
We also recommend the Government continues to monitor other EU defence initiatives closely, including the security component of its proposed new Competitiveness Fund, and report back to Parliament in due course on whether it believes it worth exploring options to … Read more
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledges the Committee’s interest in SAFE, but states that it was not able to conclude negotiations with an agreement. The UK will continue to monitor EU defense initiatives closely, engage bilaterally, and update Parliament on any significant developments.
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
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22 Acknowledged
In particular, we ask the Government to provide further clarity regarding the specific exemptions it...
Recommendation
In particular, we ask the Government to provide further clarity regarding the specific exemptions it will demand with respect to animal welfare, genomic techniques and pesticides at the earliest opportunity, recognising the significant benefits of UK regulatory autonomy in these … Read more
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledges the importance of alignment with the EU, citing manifesto commitments and potential economic benefits, and states it will take a pragmatic, sector-by-sector approach while engaging with industry.
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
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24 Not Addressed
We ask the Government to provide examples of other agreements entered into by the UK...
Recommendation
We ask the Government to provide examples of other agreements entered into by the UK or EU where termination by one party would require the payment of compensation to the other. This will ensure that Parliament has the proper context … Read more
Government Response Summary
The government response discusses relations with the EU, trade barriers, and agreements on fishing and emissions trading, but does not provide examples of agreements where termination requires compensation.
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
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26 Accepted
We ask the Government to provide clarity at the earliest opportunity about the state of...
Recommendation
We ask the Government to provide clarity at the earliest opportunity about the state of play of its engagement, if any, with the EU to agree an interim arrangement for British exports under the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, while … Read more
Government Response Summary
The government states that it has delivered on its manifesto commitments to reset relations with European partners, that closer alignment can benefit UK businesses, and that they are already aligning with the Single Market in some areas. They also engage with stakeholders through various forums.
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
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30 Acknowledged
Beyond the Court of Justice of the European Union’s (CJEU) limited role in dispute resolution...
Recommendation
Beyond the Court of Justice of the European Union’s (CJEU) limited role in dispute resolution where there is a referral of a specific question relating to EU law to that Court, we ask the Government to clarify if these Agreements … Read more
Government Response Summary
The government recognises the important role for Parliament and states that Parliament will have a say in areas of dynamic alignment with EU laws and be able to respond to treaties and the related Bill. However, they state that they cannot give a running commentary on negotiations regarding UK decision-shaping powers.
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
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40
The further negotiations with the EU announced at the Lancaster House summit were always going...
Recommendation
The further negotiations with the EU announced at the Lancaster House summit were always going to present complexities. Compromises will need to be made on both sides. We recognise the Government’s desire to make rapid progress in the on-going talks … Read more
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
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42 Acknowledged
We recommend that the Government adopt a more coherent, cross- Departmental approach to communicating progress...
Recommendation
We recommend that the Government adopt a more coherent, cross- Departmental approach to communicating progress made in the negotiations with the EU on the various agreements foreseen by the Common Understanding, and in particular refrain from referring to any 93 … Read more
Government Response Summary
The government commits to being open and transparent in its engagement with Parliament regarding implementation of the Summit outcomes and further negotiations, citing examples of past engagement.
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
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43 Accepted
Following the deal on Erasmus+ having been finalised, and with Ministers having already expressed their...
Recommendation
Following the deal on Erasmus+ having been finalised, and with Ministers having already expressed their ambition for the proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary Agreement to enter into force in 2027, we also ask the Government to outline when, following the … Read more
Government Response Summary
The government highlights a deal with the EU to rejoin Erasmus+ in 2027 and ongoing negotiations on food and drink, Emissions Trading Schemes, and the single electricity market.
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
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45 Acknowledged
Given the claimed economic impact of the sectoral agreements envisaged in the Common Understanding is...
Recommendation
Given the claimed economic impact of the sectoral agreements envisaged in the Common Understanding is larger than that of most Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), we recommend that the Government mirror the Department for Business and Trade’s commitments on transparency of … Read more
Government Response Summary
The government states that it takes its commitment to scrutiny very seriously and is committed to being open and transparent in its engagement with Parliament, including through formal evidence sessions, correspondence and private briefings.
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
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47
We recommend that the Cabinet Office takes steps to strengthen inter-departmental flows of information on...
Recommendation
We recommend that the Cabinet Office takes steps to strengthen inter-departmental flows of information on EU negotiations with other Departments, to ensure sectoral expertise is efficiently incorporated into the UK negotiating position; that Departments are able to communicate on the … Read more
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
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54 Accepted
We ask the Government to provide further information on the implementation of the commitment in...
Recommendation
We ask the Government to provide further information on the implementation of the commitment in the Joint Statement to hold high- level meetings with the EU on “joint strategic interests” in key areas such as trade and migration. We urge … Read more
Government Response Summary
The Government states that it has already delivered on its commitment to high level meetings, citing regular engagement between the Foreign Secretary, Defence Secretary, Minister Doughty, and EU representatives.
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56 Accepted in Part
We ask the Government to set out which of the possible areas of closer cooperation...
Recommendation
We ask the Government to set out which of the possible areas of closer cooperation referenced in the Security and Defence Partnership it intends to pursue further, and to provide an update on its work to “explore” UK re-entry into … Read more
Government Response Summary
The government is pursuing closer cooperation with the EU under the Security and Defence Partnership in areas which deliver practical results against shared threats, and they are participating in EU programmes such as Horizon Europe, Erasmus+ and Copernicus. However, they have no plans to rejoin Galileo.
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58 Accepted
With both the Chancellor and the Prime Minister now referring consistently to the economic “damage”...
Recommendation
With both the Chancellor and the Prime Minister now referring consistently to the economic “damage” resulting from the nature of the UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA), we ask the Government to set out its views on which elements of … Read more
Government Response Summary
The government states that it has delivered on its manifesto commitments to reset relations with European partners, that closer alignment can benefit UK businesses, and that they are already aligning with the Single Market in some areas. They also engage with stakeholders through various forums.
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
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59 Not Addressed
In particular, in light of recent comments by Ministers, we also ask the Government to...
Recommendation
In particular, in light of recent comments by Ministers, we also ask the Government to clarify if it is reconsidering its “red lines” for the EU negotiations, particularly on the Single Market and customs matters, or if it can envisage … Read more
Government Response Summary
The government restates its commitment to its existing 'red lines' and highlights existing areas of alignment with the Single Market, but does not directly address whether it is reconsidering those red lines or envisages circumstances in which it would be prudent to do so.
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
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60 Acknowledged
We recommend in particular that the Government provide further details at the earliest opportunity, and...
Recommendation
We recommend in particular that the Government provide further details at the earliest opportunity, and in any event in its response to this Report, about its proposals for sectoral alignment with the EU Single Market in additional areas as suggested … Read more
Government Response Summary
The government states that there are areas where closer alignment with the EU can benefit UK businesses, drive growth, create jobs and lower prices, and it will continue to take a pragmatic, sector-by-sector approach, recognizing the importance of engaging industry as part of the UK-EU negotiations process.
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
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61 Rejected
We request the Government to publish, as promised, the headline findings of the Economic Diplomacy...
Recommendation
We request the Government to publish, as promised, the headline findings of the Economic Diplomacy Review conducted for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office in 2024, and to clarify in its Response to this Report what EU-related recommendations Sir Martin … Read more
Government Response Summary
The Government shared executive summaries with the Committee previously and claims it would not be appropriate to provide additional detail on individual review recommendations made in a personal capacity.
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
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63 Acknowledged
We ask the Government to set out, in its reply to this Report, what options...
Recommendation
We ask the Government to set out, in its reply to this Report, what options it has raised, or intends to raise, with the European Union to further reduce barriers to trade and investment in the following areas: • Regulatory … Read more
Government Response Summary
The government says it will continue to strengthen its relationship with the EU in order to improve our economic and strategic relationship, but they did not consent to the UK's application to accede to the Lugano Convention. Cooperation with the EU in this area now takes place primarily through multilateral frameworks, in particular the Hague Conference on Private International Law.
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65 Accepted
It is disappointing that the recent meeting of the Partnership Council did not provide more...
Recommendation
It is disappointing that the recent meeting of the Partnership Council did not provide more clarity about the process or intended outcome of the Review. We ask the Government to clarify the outcome of the “evaluation of implementation” of the … Read more
Government Response Summary
The government states that the provisions for the review of the implementation of the TCA under Article 776 had been substantially delivered through the commitments made at the 2025 UK-EU Summit and the Common Understanding, and that compliance with TCA provisions continues to be scrutinised via its 19 Specialised Committees. They also produce biennial reports on the implementation of the TCA.
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67 Acknowledged
We urge the Government to continue to make the case with the EU for a...
Recommendation
We urge the Government to continue to make the case with the EU for a better deal for the British Overseas Territories (BOTs). We ask the Government to clarify what proposals it has made to the European Commission in respect … Read more
Government Response Summary
The government will account for the views of the UK Overseas Territories in discussions with the EU and has provided regular updates to them. Any changes to their trading arrangements with the EU would need to be pursued through the UK government as part of wider UK-EU discussions.
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
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69 Not Addressed
To ensure the Strategic Partnership with the EU can deliver on its full potential, we...
Recommendation
To ensure the Strategic Partnership with the EU can deliver on its full potential, we recommend that the Government, with a view to informing its objectives for the next bilateral summit and beyond, publish a White Paper on the future … Read more
Government Response Summary
The government refers to its manifesto commitments and the Common Understanding, but does not commit to publishing a White Paper on the future of the UK-EU relationship, focusing instead on the upcoming summit.
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
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70 Accepted
We recommend the Government and the EU should publicly announce the date for the next...
Recommendation
We recommend the Government and the EU should publicly announce the date for the next UK-EU summit as soon as possible, to create momentum in the on-going negotiations and concentrate minds on finding common ground on other outstanding issues to … Read more
Government Response Summary
The government committed to holding annual summits with the EU and expects the next summit to take place in the first half of this year, while noting the date will be confirmed in due course.
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72 Acknowledged
We have already made recommendations on extending the Government’s commitments to transparency of Free Trade...
Recommendation
We have already made recommendations on extending the Government’s commitments to transparency of Free Trade Agreement negotiations to the negotiations with the EU. Given the cross-cutting nature and complexity of the EU relationship, we also recommend that the Government publish … Read more
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledges the recommendation but commits only to ongoing engagement with Parliament through existing mechanisms like evidence sessions and briefings, and will keep scrutiny commitments under review.
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74 Acknowledged
We ask the Government to commit to making time for a debate and vote in...
Recommendation
We ask the Government to commit to making time for a debate and vote in the House of Commons for each new formal treaty with the EU that is subject to the process in section 20 of the Constitutional Reform … Read more
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledges Parliament's role in scrutinizing its work and states that scrutiny commitments are under review, indicating that legislation to implement new agreements will be brought forward, but does not commit to a debate and vote for each new formal treaty or extend the scrutiny period.
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75 Acknowledged
It would have been preferable for the Government to publish its Dynamic Alignment Bill for...
Recommendation
It would have been preferable for the Government to publish its Dynamic Alignment Bill for implementation of the relevant new EU agreements in draft for pre-legislative scrutiny at an earlier opportunity so that the detail of this proposed mechanism could … Read more
Government Response Summary
The Government acknowledges the role of Parliament in scrutinising its work and states that Parliament will scrutinise the legislation that implements the new agreements, but does not explicitly commit to ensuring that Parliament considers the substance of the Bill only after the finalized legal texts have been published.
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81 Deferred
We agree with the House of Lords European Affairs Committee that Parliament must “play a...
Recommendation
We agree with the House of Lords European Affairs Committee that Parliament must “play a full scrutiny role” when it comes to matters of alignment with the EU. Given the continued impact of the EU decisions on the UK and … Read more
Government Response Summary
The government intends to consider the matter of establishing a dedicated new Committee on EU affairs further, engaging with other interested parties within the House of Commons, and prefers broad agreement before treaties requiring dynamic alignment are brought into force.
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83 Acknowledged
While the House of Commons approach to scrutiny of EU matters is ultimately a matter...
Recommendation
While the House of Commons approach to scrutiny of EU matters is ultimately a matter for the House itself, the establishment of a new Committee requires the Government’s support and its effectiveness will also depend on the flow of information … Read more
Government Response Summary
The Government recognises the important role for Parliament and says it will have a say in areas where the UK dynamically aligns with new EU laws, but is not able to comment on negotiations.
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84 Acknowledged
We also ask the Government to explain if it intends to make sure that the...
Recommendation
We also ask the Government to explain if it intends to make sure that the new agreements with the EU based on dynamic alignment will include a mechanism, for example modelled on the Stormont Brake, that would enable the UK … Read more
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledges the role of Parliament and states Parliament will have a say in dynamically aligning with new EU laws, but does not commit to a specific mechanism like the Stormont Brake. They state that they are in negotiations on decision-shaping powers and cannot provide running commentary.
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
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85 Acknowledged
Similarly, we ask it to clarify if its recent assertion that “no new [EU] rules...
Recommendation
Similarly, we ask it to clarify if its recent assertion that “no new [EU] rules will apply in the UK without the UK first agreeing to this” means that the Government will have to consent to the UK aligning with … Read more
Government Response Summary
The Government recognises the important role for Parliament and says it will have a say in areas where the UK dynamically aligns with new EU laws, but is not able to comment on negotiations.
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
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1 Conclusion Acknowledged
The EU is a key partner for the UK. The relationship is more stable now than it has been for some time, but significant challenges remain and there are ample opportunities to improve it further. We are supportive of Government efforts to address these challenges, rebuilding trust and improving the …
Government Response Summary
The Government welcomes the Committee’s reflections and outlines steps taken to reset relations with the EU, focusing on deeper integration, reducing trade barriers, and supporting the internal market, with specific mention of agreements related to food and drink, energy efficiency, and emissions trading.
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2 Conclusion Acknowledged
We agree that faithful implementation of the existing agreements with the EU is key to the stability of the overall UK-EU relationship, as well as to the prospects of any substantive improvements to it. Regrettably, Brexit itself and the subsequent Windsor Framework arrangements for Northern Ireland have repeatedly been a …
Government Response Summary
The Government welcomes the Committee’s reflections and states that deeper integration with the EU will deliver greater prosperity and security for the whole of the UK, reducing friction for Northern Ireland and supporting the internal market.
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3 Conclusion Acknowledged
We welcome the continued efforts being made by all parties to reach a new Agreement on Gibraltar. This should bring an end to nearly 10 years of uncertainty and ensure the continued fluidity of the border with Spain, without diminishing UK sovereignty. We hope that a treaty that safeguards UK …
Government Response Summary
The government welcomes the Committee's reflections and states its aim for deeper integration with the EU, highlighting agreements made at the last summit, and states that parliamentarians' interest in the Treaty will be conveyed to the Leader of the House, Chief Whip and Business Managers for consideration in the scheduling of parliamentary business.
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5 Conclusion Accepted
The Government’s deal with the EU to extend access to British waters for EU fishing vessels by 12 years came as a~ surprise for many in the industry. Irrespective of the merits of the agreement, the Government should have consulted and managed expectations accordingly with the affected sectors ahead of …
Government Response Summary
The government defends the fisheries agreement by saying it provides stability to the fishing industry and secures reciprocal access to EU waters, highlighting existing mechanisms for parliamentary scrutiny and funding for coastal communities.
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7 Conclusion
We welcome the Government’s success in securing a time-limited commitment from the EU to restore tariff-free exports for certain steel products at the Lancaster House summit. (Conclusion, Paragraph 38)
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8 Conclusion Acknowledged
With the UK now outside the Customs Union, the risk of future EU tariffs on British steel remains. The Government did not identify the issue of steel tariffs as a priority in its public communications on the “reset”, and it is not at all clear what, if anything, it proposed …
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledges the importance of steel to both the UK and the EU, highlights measures taken to protect the industries, and commits to finding a bilateral solution with the EU to protect UK-EU steel trade.
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10 Conclusion Accepted
We welcome the UK-EU Security and Defence Partnership. It is a useful tool for structured dialogue and cooperation in a key area of mutual interest, without constraining the UK’s ability to conduct its foreign, defence and security policies as it sees fit. We urge the UK, EU and EU Member …
Government Response Summary
The Government reaffirms its commitment to coordinate with the EU and its Member States to provide aid and assistance to Ukraine, including in Ukraine obtaining compensation from Russia. They state they are already leveraging immobilised Russian assets to support Ukraine and will continue to work closely with the G7 and EU.
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11 Conclusion Acknowledged
We hope the Security and Defence Partnership will, in particular, facilitate sustained UK-EU cooperation in support of Ukraine’s defence and, by extension, European security. In that context, it is extremely regrettable that the EU Member States in December 2025 were unable to find a united EU position on the use …
Government Response Summary
The government condemns Russia's actions in Ukraine, reaffirms its commitment to coordinate with the EU to provide aid, and highlights that they are leveraging immobilised Russian assets to support Ukraine's needs.
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13 Conclusion Acknowledged
European security is facing its greatest threat since the end of the Cold War. Russia continues its illegal war on Ukraine and poses an acute threat to the security of the entire European continent. It has intensified its hybrid operations in the UK and across the EU. This threat makes …
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledges the importance of industrial cooperation but notes that negotiations on the EU's Security Action for Europe (SAFE) were not concluded due to national interest concerns, but claims UK defense companies continue to have access to SAFE contracts under standard third-country terms.
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14 Conclusion Acknowledged
The UK is a key player in continued efforts to repel Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and to protect Europe’s security more broadly. Security Action for Europe, as a key EU programme aimed at improving the defence of the European continent, would clearly be more effective with greater involvement of Britain’s …
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledges the committee's interest, states they entered negotiations in good faith, but were unable to conclude negotiations with an agreement as it was not in the national interest. However, UK defence companies continue to have access to SAFE contracts under standard third-country terms.
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15 Conclusion Acknowledged
It is therefore extremely disappointing that these negotiations have been a failure so far. This is the direct result of EU demands for a UK financial contribution to Security Action for Europe that was, we agree with the Government, beyond the bounds of the reasonable. As a result, cooperation in …
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledges the Committee’s interest in SAFE, but states that it was not able to conclude negotiations with an agreement. The UK will continue to monitor EU defense initiatives closely, engage bilaterally, and update Parliament on any significant developments.
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18 Conclusion Acknowledged
The Common Understanding agreed with the EU is one of the key outcomes of the Government’s “reset” efforts to date. As and when delivered fully, it should significantly reduce barriers to trade for some sectors, albeit resulting in reduced UK regulatory autonomy due to the commitment to dynamic alignment with …
Government Response Summary
The Government was elected on the basis of manifesto commitments to reset relations with our European Partners, while sticking to our red lines, and states it delivered on this.
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19 Conclusion Acknowledged
Reflecting the Government’s approach to setting its EU negotiating objectives, we found there is little in the Common Understanding by way of a connecting thread between its different elements. Some of the Government’s known objectives for the “reset”, as well as numerous proposals made by stakeholders for improvements to the …
Government Response Summary
The government agrees that faithful implementation of the existing agreements with the EU is key to the stability of the overall UK-EU relationship and mentions the Windsor Framework.
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20 Conclusion Not Addressed
British companies lead the world in their work in editing crop genes to prevent disease, eradicate pests and enable crops to survive drought or flooding. Furthermore, the UK maintains some of the highest animal welfare standards in the world. Since Brexit, the UK has had the power to set animal …
Government Response Summary
The government welcomes continued efforts to reach a new Agreement on Gibraltar to ensure the continued fluidity of the border with Spain without diminishing UK sovereignty.
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21 Conclusion Acknowledged
The Government has made the Sanitary and Phytosanitary Agreement with the EU a political priority and convincingly demonstrated its potential economic benefits if properly negotiated. However, important questions remain about the scope of the Agreement and of any exemptions from the UK’s obligation to align with EU rules. (Conclusion, Paragraph …
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledges the importance of alignment with the EU, citing manifesto commitments and potential economic benefits, and states it will take a pragmatic, sector-by-sector approach while engaging with industry.
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23 Conclusion
We are also concerned about reports of a termination clause requiring potentially significant financial compensation to the EU if the UK were to exit the Sanitary and Phytosanitary Agreement in the future. (Conclusion, Paragraph 74)
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25 Conclusion Accepted
We support the Government’s intention to act on the commitment made by its predecessor within the Trade and Cooperation Agreement to “seriously consider” linking the UK and EU emissions trading systems. An agreement to that effect would be of benefit to both sides’ climate ambitions. An agreement on Emissions Trading …
Government Response Summary
The government has agreed to rejoin Erasmus+ in 2027, started technical negotiations on a food and drink agreement, and on linking Emissions Trading Schemes.
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27 Conclusion Not Addressed
Citizens of both the UK and EU face a sustained cost of living crisis, and the Committee supports the Government’s efforts to bring down energy bills by making electricity trading with the EU more efficient. However, we note there is no detail yet about the Government’s position for the talks …
Government Response Summary
The government restates its commitment to not rejoining the Customs Union or Single Market, highlights areas where closer alignment can benefit the UK, and mentions engagement with stakeholders, but does not address the specific concerns about the details and timing of energy trading agreements with the EU.
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28 Conclusion Acknowledged
More broadly, the Government has now entered into negotiations with the EU on several agreements on the basis of dynamic alignment with relevant EU laws, subject to some exceptions yet to be negotiated. The Committee notes that this will, necessarily, reduce regulatory autonomy in Great Britain, beyond the constraints that …
Government Response Summary
The government recognises the important role for Parliament and states that Parliament will have a say in areas of dynamic alignment with EU laws and be able to respond to treaties and the related Bill. However, they state that they cannot give a running commentary on negotiations regarding UK decision-shaping powers.
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29 Conclusion Acknowledged
There is a lack of clarity about the extent to which relevant case law of the Court of Justice of the European Union will be binding on the UK under any new Agreements based on dynamic alignment. (Conclusion, Paragraph 87)
Government Response Summary
The government recognises the important role for Parliament and states that Parliament will have a say in areas of dynamic alignment with EU laws and be able to respond to treaties and the related Bill. However, they state that they cannot give a running commentary on negotiations regarding UK decision-shaping powers.
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31 Conclusion Accepted
There is a range of views on the Committee regarding a Youth Experience Scheme. Whilst there is an understanding that such a scheme would be a way of providing young people on both sides with new opportunities to travel and work, and strengthen cultural and personal ties between the UK …
Government Response Summary
The government highlights a deal with the EU to rejoin Erasmus+ in 2027 and ongoing negotiations on food and drink, Emissions Trading Schemes, and the single electricity market.
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32 Conclusion Accepted
Most Members of the Committee welcome the agreement on the UK’s re-entry into the Erasmus+ programme, and hope the necessary legal amendments under the Trade and Cooperation Agreement can be made swiftly so that the necessary practical steps can be implemented without delay. (Conclusion, Paragraph 95)
Government Response Summary
The government has agreed to rejoin Erasmus+ in 2027, fulfilling a key commitment made at the UK-EU Summit.
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33 Conclusion
Business mobility is crucial to the UK services industry, and mutual recognition of professional qualifications is one area where the Trade and Cooperation Agreement offers a clear mechanism for progress. We hope the Government and EU will use the new Dialogue to establish no later than the next UK-EU summit …
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34 Conclusion
Given the EU’s parallel concerns about the restrictions of the UK’s visa sponsorship scheme, it is clear that this set of negotiations has two distinct strands. They are likely to require being treated as a package for the Government to achieve its objectives with respect to recognition of professional qualifications. …
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35 Conclusion
In its response to this Report, we ask the Government to provide an update on the progress made through the new Dialogues with the EU on professional qualifications and on business mobility, including ideally a shared UK-EU roadmap on establishing mutual recognition of professional qualifications for priority sectors. (Recommendation, Paragraph …
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36 Conclusion
While it may not shift the dial on the UK’s economic growth prospects, addressing the barriers that make it difficult for UK performers to tour in the EU could make a significant difference to that sector, have a positive cultural impact, and provide a boost to “soft power” for the …
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37 Conclusion
We ask the Government to outline the specific objectives it has put forward in talks with the EU to address the different types of barriers touring performers encounter since Brexit, and what it sees as the remaining barriers to progress ahead of the next UK-EU summit. (Recommendation, Paragraph 103) 92
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38 Conclusion
We ask the Government to provide an update on the progress made in implementing the areas of cooperation agreed with the EU at the Lancaster House summit relating to irregular migration and law enforcement since May 2025. We ask it to clarify in particular what the focus has been of …
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39 Conclusion
Most Members of the Committee broadly welcome the outcome of the Lancaster House summit as a starting point for improved relations with the EU. It has substantially improved the overall political relationship and inserted positive momentum. However, the Government failed to clearly identify its strategic priorities for the summit and, …
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41 Conclusion
Despite Ministers talking about ‘implementing’ the outcomes of the first UK-EU summit, substantive and potentially difficult negotiations with the EU to translate many of them into practice are very much on-going. Significant changes in the UK’s relationship with the EU were never likely to happen quickly. Realistic expectations management by …
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44 Conclusion Acknowledged
While we recognise that not all things can be negotiated in the open, there is a tension between exposing one’s hand and the transparency necessary for good parliamentary scrutiny. The Government will be better equipped to conduct the negotiations with the EU if it is well-informed through consultation and engagement, …
Government Response Summary
The government states that it takes its commitment to scrutiny very seriously and is committed to being open and transparent in its engagement with Parliament, including through formal evidence sessions, correspondence and private briefings.
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46 Conclusion
We are concerned about the evidence we have seen of potential shortcomings in the internal cross-Departmental coordination of the UK negotiating position with the EU, in particular between the Cabinet Office and Departments that hold responsibility for specific policy areas affected by the negotiations. (Conclusion, Paragraph 123)
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48 Conclusion
It is disappointing that the EU has recently and unilaterally introduced a significant new element into the “reset” negotiations by asking the UK to make a financial contribution to economic development of lower-income EU countries. Such a demand was not included in the Common Understanding. Introducing it in this way …
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49 Conclusion
As for the UK Government position, we note that Ministers have not explicitly ruled out making a financial contribution to the economic development of the EU’s lower-income Member States in a manner similar to Norway and Switzerland. Irrespective of the arguments around the principle of such a contribution’ to the …
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50 Conclusion
We ask the Government to state clearly whether it is prepared to agree to make a financial contribution to the economic development of lower- income EU countries that does not require payments into the general EU budget (for example in a manner similar to the EU-Switzerland financial mechanism), and, if …
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51 Conclusion
The outcome of the Lancaster House summit was a major step change in the UK’s relationship with the EU after Brexit, but it has, naturally, not been able to resolve all outstanding issues. Further pressure for negotiations will remain. We are supportive of the Government’s efforts to pursue additional priorities …
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52 Conclusion
To enable the Strategic Partnership to deliver to its full potential, Ministers will need to produce a clearer and more coherent vision about the EU relationship for the next phase of negotiations. The UK and EU both face far- reaching national and economic security challenges from an increasingly multipolar global …
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53 Conclusion Acknowledged
In many ways, UK and EU security interests intersect and overlap, and actions taken separately may be less effective than shared action. Worse, as the EU’s steel tariffs show, unilateral action by one party to the Strategic Partnership risks damaging the other. Yet even after the Lancaster House summit with …
Government Response Summary
The government is pursuing closer cooperation with the EU under the Security and Defence Partnership in areas which deliver practical results against shared threats, including supporting Ukraine, countering hybrid threats, and coordinating on defence industrial resilience, underpinned by high-level engagement.
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55 Conclusion Acknowledged
The UK-EU Security and Defence Partnership could be used as a springboard to further operational cooperation on security and defence matters where this is in the UK interest. It is unclear which specific options, such as a Framework Participation Agreement or an Administrative Arrangement with the European Defence Agency, the …
Government Response Summary
The government is pursuing closer cooperation with the EU under the Security and Defence Partnership in areas which deliver practical results against shared threats, including supporting Ukraine, countering hybrid threats, and coordinating on defence industrial resilience, underpinned by high-level engagement.
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57 Conclusion Acknowledged
On the balance of the evidence available, we can see that trade barriers with the EU continue to be a major issue for many sectors. We support Government efforts to explore what further opportunities exist for reducing them jointly with the EU. It is unfortunate that statements made in recent …
Government Response Summary
The Government reiterates its commitment to resetting relations with European partners while adhering to its red lines (no return to the Customs Union, Single Market, or freedom of movement) and states it is already aligning with the Single Market in some areas.
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62 Conclusion Acknowledged
The evidence submitted to this inquiry shows there are a range of further pragmatic steps that the UK and EU can explore together with the aim of improving their trading relationship, strengthening their combined resilience in the face of global economic shocks and also further reducing barriers to intra-UK trade …
Government Response Summary
The government states that improving the economic and strategic relationship with the EU remains a top priority and that deeper integration is within the UK’s national interest, and that future summits will provide opportunities to strengthen this relationship.
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64 Conclusion Accepted
There has been considerable uncertainty about the scope and function of the review of the implementation of the UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) which is required to take place this year. Although the 98 political summit process initiated in May 2025 has, in the Minister’s words, “overtaken” the review, …
Government Response Summary
The government states that the review of the implementation of the TCA has been substantially delivered through commitments made at the 2025 UK-EU Summit and that the TCA is broadly functioning as expected. They also note that they remain committed to engaging with key stakeholders on how the TCA is being implemented.
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66 Conclusion Acknowledged
The Falkland Island Government has eloquently made the case for a new chapter on trade relations between the British Overseas Territories (BOTs) and the EU (alongside the separate arrangements for Gibraltar given its unique geographical situation). Given these territories’ small size, the lifting of the tariffs suggested by the Falklands …
Government Response Summary
The government states that it seeks to ensure that discussions on UK-EU relations and agreements take account of the views of, and impacts on, the UK Overseas Territories, and that changes to their trading arrangements would need to be pursued through the UK Government.
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68 Conclusion Acknowledged
While the best moment for an EU White Paper would have been in advance of the first UK-EU summit, we do not believe it is too late given that the Government’s own position on this matter is clearly in flux; there remains a need for a stable, long-term approach to …
Government Response Summary
The government refers to its manifesto commitments on resetting relations with the EU and the Common Understanding announced at the May Summit, setting out an agenda for strengthened cooperation, but does not commit to publishing a White Paper.
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71 Conclusion Not Addressed
To date, the Government has been reluctant to be transparent with Parliament about the substance of its position in talks with the EU and progress in those negotiations. We are not asking for Ministers to give, in their words, a “running commentary”, but there is significant scope for improvement in …
Government Response Summary
The government response discusses the Sanitary and Phytosanitary Agreement and the new strategic partnership with the EU but does not address the request for examples of agreements with compensation clauses for termination.
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73 Conclusion Acknowledged
Parliament’s ability to effectively scrutinise any new agreements negotiated with the EU before they enter into force is a key test of the Government’s commitment to democratic legitimacy and accountability. It would be a concrete demonstration that lessons have been learned from the inadequate scrutiny processes for the Northern Ireland …
Government Response Summary
The Government has been clear and consistent in its messaging on its ambitions for closer cooperation with the EU to improve the safety, security and economic prosperity of the UK. Mentions Common Understanding document.
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76 Conclusion Acknowledged
Given the impact, complexity and cross-cutting nature of the UK’s relationship with the EU, continued parliamentary scrutiny of the UK-EU relationship is vital. (Conclusion, Paragraph 221)
Government Response Summary
The government recognises the importance of parliamentary scrutiny of the UK-EU relationship and will keep scrutiny commitments under review to ensure that they are right as it moves forwards. It will also ensure Parliament can scrutinise the legislation that implements these new agreements where legislation is required.
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77 Conclusion Acknowledged
The EU is a key international partner for the UK. As such, the Foreign Affairs Committee should continue carrying out the scrutiny function for the foreign policy dimension of the new relationship, including the Security and Defence Partnership, as well as relevant elements of the new Strategic Partnership and the …
Government Response Summary
The government recognises the important role for Parliament in the legislation process and has secured explicit reference in the Common Understanding to the United Kingdom’s constitutional and parliamentary procedures for future areas of alignment. It states that Parliament will have a say where the UK dynamically aligns with new EU laws.
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78 Conclusion Acknowledged
The closer relationship with the EU and the accelerating trend towards UK regulatory alignment with the EU does, however, raise important questions about the need for parliamentary scrutiny of EU matters within the House of Commons. In particular, under the envisaged agreements based on dynamic alignment the UK Parliament will, …
Government Response Summary
The government recognises the important role for Parliament in the legislation process and has secured explicit reference in the Common Understanding to the United Kingdom’s constitutional and parliamentary procedures for future areas of alignment. It states that Parliament will have a say where the UK dynamically aligns with new EU laws.
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79 Conclusion Acknowledged
Even so, the UK has only limited scope to influence new EU laws with which it is or will be aligning. To ensure a degree of democratic legitimacy and accountability in relation to regulatory alignment with the European Union, it is necessary that the House of Commons should have appropriate …
Government Response Summary
The government recognises the important role for Parliament in the legislation process and has secured explicit reference in the Common Understanding to the United Kingdom’s constitutional and parliamentary procedures for future areas of alignment. It states that Parliament will have a say where the UK dynamically aligns with new EU laws.
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80 Conclusion Deferred
It is not clear to us that expecting Departmental Select Committees to fulfil this task would be workable, and nor can they provide the House with a cross-cutting overview of how alignment with EU rules, and limitations on the UK’s regulatory autonomy, are developing across different areas of policy. We …
Government Response Summary
The government intends to consider the matter further and engage with interested parties within the House of Commons, preferring broad agreement before new treaties with the EU requiring dynamic alignment are brought into force.
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82 Conclusion Acknowledged
We intend to consider the matter further, engaging with other interested parties within the House of Commons. It would be preferable for there to be broad agreement on the appropriate EU scrutiny mechanisms before any new treaties with the EU requiring dynamic alignment are brought into force. (Conclusion, Paragraph 227)
Government Response Summary
The Government recognises the important role for Parliament and says it will have a say in areas where the UK dynamically aligns with new EU laws, but is not able to comment on negotiations.
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