Speaking on the News Agents podcast, Lammy said it was “self-evident that leaving the European Union badly damaged our economy” and highlighted the advantages enjoyed by other states with customs union arrangements.
While Lammy confirmed that rejoining the customs union is not currently on the agenda, he noted that countries such as Turkey which maintains a partial customs union with the EU for goods appear to benefit from tariff-free access to EU markets.
“You can see countries like Turkey with a customs union seemingly benefiting and seeing growth in their economy,” Lammy said.
Lammy also criticised the Brexit process, arguing that it removed the UK from “an important marketplace” and created friction in trade relationships. He said the public was misled by “untruths… peddled by those that thought exiting the European Union would be a good thing.”
The justice secretary emphasised that the UK’s future is inextricably linked to the EU, adding:
“We should be working deliberately over time to be closer, that’s my view.”
A spokesman for Lammy clarified the government’s stance, stating that while Labour seeks a stronger trading relationship with Europe, there will be no return to the single market or full customs union. The approach focuses on the national interest and supporting jobs, bills, and border security.
The comments come as Germany’s President Frank-Walter Steinmeier hailed a fresh start between the UK and Brussels post-Brexit. Referencing the Oasis song Don’t Look Back in Anger, Steinmeier reflected on the uncertainty surrounding the 2016 referendum but encouraged a forward-looking approach:
“Do not look to the past but rather together to the future. Our love remains.”
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has indicated that the party will intensify its critique of Brexit, positioning improved relations with the EU at the centre of its campaign against Reform UK.
