Agencies London

The United Kingdom and the European Union have struck a new post-Brexit trade deal after months of intense negotiations, signaling a significant reset in their relationship. This breakthrough came late Sunday night, just hours before a Monday morning deadline.

Both sides celebrated the agreement, with UK Labour Leader Sir Keir Starmer proclaiming "Britain is back on the world stage," while European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described it as a "historic moment." This marks the first major trade deal since the UK officially left the EU in January 2020 under Boris Johnson's government.

A key sticking point in the "down to the wire" talks was fishing rights. While the EU initially sought permanent access to UK waters, the agreed deal extends current fishing rules for 12 years. This means there will be no immediate change to access for UK fishing communities, with no reduction in British quotas or increase in the amount the EU is allowed to catch, which is set annually. Despite fishing accounting for a small fraction (0.4%) of UK GDP, it was a prominent issue in the original Brexit "leave" campaign.

The new agreement includes several practical benefits for citizens and businesses. British passport holders will once again be able to use eGates in Europe, aiming to reduce lengthy passport control queues. The return of pet passports will eliminate the need for expensive health certificates from vets for cats, dogs, and ferrets traveling between the UK and the EU. 

Most routine checks and the need for certificates for food and drinks have been removed, which the government states will reduce the burden on businesses and alleviate lorry queues at the border.  Sir Keir Starmer specifically noted that British burgers and sausages will now be allowed into the UK again.