The UK and the EU, like finally, have agreed on a new trade deal – five whole years after Brexit happened. It took them six months of talking, but they got there. Sir Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister since last July, promised a fresh deal, and it looks like he delivered.
eGates Galore
Now, British passport holders can use more eGates in Europe to skip the long queues at border control. You know, those queues that have been a pain since Brexit in many EU countries. It’s a win for travelers looking to breeze through customs hassle-free.
Pet Travel Gets Easier
Pet passports are making a comeback! Cats and dogs coming from the UK won’t need those pricey animal health certificates for every trip anymore. After Brexit, pet owners had to jump through hoops – getting a certificate from a UK vet and then an EU vet before heading back. But not anymore!
Food and Drink Sales Red Tape
A new deal on sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) measures has been reached to cut down on the red tape for importing and exporting food and drink between the UK and the EU. This deal doesn’t have a time limit, and the government says it will ease the burden on businesses and reduce those pesky lorry queues at the border. Plus, most routine checks and certificates for animal and plant products will be done away with completely. British foods that were banned in the EU post-Brexit, like burgers and sausages, can now make a comeback. Yum!
Fishing Rights Stay Put
The current fishing deal, agreed upon in 2020, will continue for 12 more years. Fish quotas won’t be increasing either. EU fishing vessels can still fish in UK waters, but they’ll need a valid license. There will be yearly negotiations on access and stock share. To support the fishing industry, the UK government is pumping £360 million into new technology, equipment, workforce training, and boosting seafood exports.
A Carbon Tax Tale
The UK and the EU are teaming up on emissions, linking their trading systems. The UK’s scheme puts a cap on greenhouse gas emissions from various sectors, with companies trading allowances. This partnership means UK businesses won’t have to deal with the EU’s carbon tax, saving them a cool £800 million.
Steel, the Unsung Hero
British steel exports will be shielded from new EU rules and tariffs, saving the UK steel industry £25 million annually. This move aims to keep the steel industry thriving and competitive.
More Talks on the Horizon
The UK and the EU are planning more negotiations on a youth mobility scheme for people aged 18-30, allowing them to move freely between countries for a limited time. Talks are also in the works to potentially revive the Erasmus program, the beloved student exchange initiative that was axed post-Brexit. The two sides will also discuss ways to combat illegal migration, improve visa processes for work, and tackle criminal threats through information sharing and cooperation.
Electricity, Anyone?
The UK and the EU are considering the UK’s involvement in the EU’s internal electricity market to enhance trading platforms. This could lead to greater collaboration in the energy sector for mutual benefit.
So, there you have it, folks! The UK and the EU have reached a new trade deal, making life a bit easier for everyone involved. Time will tell how these changes play out, but for now, it seems like a step in the right direction. Cheers to progress!
