Sir Keir Starmer will bring forward his “Brexit reset” bill as the Prime Minister looks to push Britain closer to Brussels.
While it has not yet been given a formal title, officials briefed on the plan suggested it will be in the King’s Speech at the start of a new parliamentary session in May.
Last week, chancellor Rachel Reeves earlier this week set out plans to follow more of the EU’s rules, saying closer alignment would help bring down prices and inflation.
She warned the UK risked being “stranded” between rival trading blocs unless it forged closer ties with Brussels and said the UK’s fate as a country was “inescapably bound with that of Europe”.
Now, the Financial Times reports the the bill would in theory allow Britain to adopt EU regulations to clear the way for an EU-UK food and agriculture trade deal.
Both sides reportedly hope to conclude at a summit around the time of the tenth anniversary of the Brexit vote on June 23, 2026.
Former Brexit minister Lord Frost told the FT: “The new bill will sideline democratic UK lawmakers by making a whole range of EU laws applicable in Britain without us getting any say in them. That’s not alignment, it’s subordination.”
The King’s Speech has been pencilled in for the week after May 7, where voters in Scotland, Wales and much of England will be having their say in local elections
Current polling suggests Labour will be losing seats across the country to Nigel Farage’s Reform UK and Zack Polanski’s Greens.
A Cabinet Office spokesman said: “We have already agreed that the UK will help shape new rules and any disputes will be resolved by an independent arbitration panel, not an EU court.
“We will provide details of the legislation in due course and parliament will play its full constitutional role in scrutinising, debating and shaping it.”
Downing Street has ruled out rejoining the customs union, the single market or returning to freedom of movement.
The spokesman said: “We have said previously, improving our relationship with the EU is in no way rowing back on Brexit. This is about taking sovereign decisions in the national interest while sticking to our red lines.”
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Keir Starmer says Britain has ‘very effective ways of defending ourselves’
Britain has “very effective ways of defending ourselves”, the Prime Minister has insisted amid questions about whether the UK could intercept long distance missiles shot at Britain by Iran.
Appearing at the Liaison Committee of senior MPs, Sir Keir Starmer was asked by defence committee Chairman Tan Singh Dhesi whether the UK had a means of defending itself against such an attack.
The Prime Minister replied: “We constantly assess this, and we do have very effective ways of defending ourselves.
“I don’t want to raise levels of public anxiety. They are anxious about what they’re already seeing on their television screens. They’re anxious about the impact it will have on them, particularly economically, in their households. And I don’t want to raise their levels of anxiety.
“I can tell you our military personnel, our security and intelligence services, are working literally 24/7 to keep us safe and doing a very good job in that regard.”
Keir Starmer says Iran war could go on ‘for some time’
Sir Keir Starmer said the war “could go on for some time” as he welcomed news from the White House that President Donald Trump held talks with Iran.
The Prime Minister says he’s instructed his team not to fall into the “false comfort” that there could be a “quick and early exit” to the war.
Keir Starmer said it is inaccurate to say UK was ’embarrassed’ over Iran response
Sir Keir Starmer has defended Britain’s response to the war in Iran to the Liaison Committee.
When asked by Slough MP Tan Dhesi if he was “embarrassed” by the UK’s response to the war on Iran, the Prime Minister said: “I don’t think that’s right, during January and February, we could see build up and we are working closely with the US on intelligence.
“We pre-deployed a lot of assets to the region…As far as HMS Dragon is concerned it normally takes six weeks for the loading onto and deployment of relevant capability.
“That was done within six days, with people working 22 days.”
Keir Starmer appears before Liaison Committee
Sir Keir Starmer being grilled by the Liaison Committee
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The Prime Minister is currently being grilled by the Liaison Committee, chaired by Meg Hillier with a focus on international affairs.
However, he first addressed the attack on the ambulances in Golders Green.
The Prime Minister said: “The idea that ambulances could be considered a target is simply horrendous. And I know the impact that that will have had on so many individuals, not just those, in the area …
“The whole Jewish community, across the country, not least, because this is not an isolated incident and the rise of antisemitic hatred is there for all to see.”
WATCH: Laila Cunningham says ‘leadership has failed everyone’ after arson attack in Golders Green
Downing Street defends Diego Garcia disclosure
Downing Street has defended its approach to disclosing the missile attacks aimed at Diego Garcia last week.
Asked about accusations of a “cover-up” and whether the Government would share any future incidents of a similar nature with the public, the Prime Minister’s spokesman said: “What I’m saying is the information about threats is held at a high classification and is only declassified through a rigorous process, and for obvious reasons, we won’t comment on the operation of our allies and our partners.”
Pressed on whether the Government would choose not to disclose the information if another missile were fired at the air base, he said: “No, I’m obviously not going to get ahead of hypotheticals.
“The point is we do not always immediately confirm events in fast-moving conflict, particularly where doing so could risk the safety of our military personnel, and that declassifying this sort of information must go through a rigorous process, but the MoD (Ministry of Defence) has been providing regular updates and will continue to do so.”
SNP could ‘bludgeon’ Keir Starmer into referendum, claim Scottish Tories
John Swinney could “bludgeon” the Prime Minister into allowing another referendum on independence if he wins a majority in May, Scottish Conservative leader Russell Findlay has said.
The First Minister has set the bar at winning at least 65 seats in May’s election for an increase in his lobbying for another vote on separation.
While UK ministers have repeatedly said there are no conditions where a second vote would be allowed, Scottish Tory leader Mr Findlay said Sir Keir Starmer’s position was “weak” and he could change position.
Mr Findlay told reporters: “Keir Starmer has been in Downing Street since summer 2024 and I’ve lost count of the number of major u-turns he has committed.
“The idea that an emboldened John Swinney, on May 8, potentially with a majority, would be able to bludgeon Keir Starmer into potentially committing another u-turn, the threat is very, very real.
“Despite the fact only one in eight voters across Scotland believe that independence is a priority, for John Swinney, it is the number one priority and it always will be.”
Golders Green arson attack investigation ‘being led by counter-terrorism police’, Met Police confirm
Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams has issued a statement following the Golders Green arson attack on Jewish community-led ambulances.
Confirming that the investigation is being led by “counter-terrorism police”, Mr Williams said: “While this has not been declared a terrorist incident at this stage, the investigation is now being led by counter-terrorism policing with all the specialist expertise they bring and all lines of inquiry remain open.
“There have been no arrests at this early stage and we would urge anyone with information to please contact us as soon as possible. You can do so anonymously if you wish.”
UK economy ‘at risk of recession’ as bond markets project FOUR Bank of England interest rate rises
Chancellor Rachel Reeves has put watchdogs on ‘high alert’ | GETTY
The conflict in Iran has disrupted Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ economic strategy, with Treasury officials warning of a “very difficult Budget” later this year.
Labour began 2026 promising stability and lower living costs, with plans built on falling inflation, easing interest rates and improving business confidence.
Those expectations have been undermined by escalating geopolitical tensions, with the Bank of England signalling potential interest rate increases.
Leader of Barnet Council says ‘attack on one part of our community is an attack on us all’
The Labour Leader of Barnet Council has said the attack on Jewish community-led ambulances is an “attack on us all”.
Councillor Barry Rawlings said: “We are deeply shocked and appalled by this antisemitic attack in the heart of our Jewish community. The deliberate targeting of Hatzola’s volunteer ambulances, in what the police are treating as a suspected arson attack, is abhorrent.
“We will do everything in our power to support the police to bring those responsible to justice.
“Our thoughts are first and foremost with those affected – the volunteers who dedicate their time to saving lives and to our wider community who will feel understandably shaken and distressed by this attack.
“Hate crime in any form will not be tolerated in our borough. An attack on one part of our community is an attack on us all. We stand in full solidarity with our Jewish residents and with all the other communities who make up Golders Green and who are feeling vulnerable today as a result of this cowardly act.”
Golders Green MP condemns ambulance attack as ‘despicable and cowardly’
Emergency services remain at the scene in Golders Green
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Sarah Sackman, Labour’s Finchley and Golders Green MP, condemned “the despicable, cowardly, antisemitic arson attack” in her constituency.
She said: “I am horrified by the arson attack on Hatzola NW ambulances in Golders Green overnight. This is a despicable, cowardly, antisemitic act, which the police are treating as a hate crime.
“Hatzola NW is staffed by dedicated volunteers who save lives from all communities. I know that many people across Finchley and Golders Green will have turned to Hatzola NW in their hour of need.
“The perpetrators must feel the full force of the law. The police are appealing for witnesses and evidence. If you have seen or know anything, please contact them immediately on 1010 quoting CAD415.”
Kemi Badenoch condemns Golders Green ambulance attack
Kemi Badenoch has condemned the attack on the Jewish-led ambulances in Golders Green.
The Tory leader said: “All of us need to make it clear in our words and actions that Britain will not tolerate antisemitism”.
Ms Badenoch said members of the Jewish community had told her they live in fear of “constant attacks”.
Wes Streeting confirms Labour will fund ambulance replacements in Golders Green
Health Secretary Wes Streeting has said anyone in Golders Green who needs ambulance support should still come forward after the attack in North London.
He added the Government would fund the replacement ambulances for the volunteer-led service.
Mr Streeting said: “Those responsible must know the Jewish community will not face up to this hatred alone.
“Every decent person in this country needs to stand up and speak up against this vile antisemitic hatred.
“Of course, the best form of solidarity is practical solidarity, which is why today, our London Ambulance Service colleagues will be providing support to the team here in Golders Green to make sure that we don’t skip a beat when it comes to responding to emergency callouts.”
Reform UK’s London head ‘horrified’ by overnight attacks on Jewish ambulances
The Head of Reform UK’s London branch and Westminster Councillor Laila Cunningham has told GB News she was “horrified” by the overnight attack on Jewish ambulances in Golders Green.
Councillor Cunningham said: “This is not the London I grew up in. Imagine being pat of a community where an ambulance is targeted and that’s what the Jewish community is waking up to this morning.
“I speak to Jewish friends who do not let their children go out with the Star of David, so I cannot accept a city where you are not accepted for who you are.”
WATCH: Keir Starmer provides update on Iran crisis ahead of emergency Cobra meeting
Keir Starmer says emergency Cobra meeting will discuss ‘every lever available’
The emergency Cobra committee will discuss “every lever available” for dealing with the cost of living, Sir Keir Starmer has said.
The Prime Minister said: “Cobra is the opportunity at the highest level to bring people together on matters of real, significant national importance.
“Obviously Cobras are usually used for military considerations, consular considerations, but I think with the Iran war, most people are very concerned now, not only what they’re seeing on their screens in relation to the conflict itself, but also that question of how is it going to affect me and my family?
“So today we’re looking at the economic impact, and I am asking for every lever that’s available to the Government to deal with the cost of living to be discussed at Cobra. Hence we’ve got the Bank of England and others there.
“But I want to make sure that when it comes to the cost of living, we’re doing everything we possibly can at a very difficult period like this.”
Keir Starmer says he is in contact with community leaders after Golders Green ambulance attack
Sir Keir Starmer speaking to GB News Political Editor Chris Hope this morning
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Sir Keir Starmer has said he is in touch with community leaders after last nights attack on the Jewish ambulances in Golders Green
The Prime Minister said: “This is a horrific antisemitic attack.
“Of course my thoughts and all of our throughs with those in the vicinity, the residents who are understandably deeply concerned and the Jewish community across the country,
“I have been in touch with community leaders this morning and will continue to do so during the day but antisemitism has no place in our society.”
Labour minister says attack on Golders Green Ambulance is an ‘attack on all of us’
Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook has said the attack on Jewish ambulances in Golders Green is an “attack on all of us.”
He told GB News: “This is a deeply shocking and deeply saddening to hear about. This is a volunteer community ambulance service, and the wider community will be feeling concerned about the situation.
“This is a live investigation so I do not want to speculate on who carried out the attacks or their precise reasons but every indication this is an anti semitic crime.
“If that is the case it would be not just an affront to the Jewish community but it is an attack on all of us and our way of life. There should be no place in British society for anti-Jewish hatred of any kind.”
Ftse 100 plunges and borrowing costs rise as Donald Trump ultimatum over Strait of Hormuz sends oil price surging
Global stocks fall sharply while borrowing costs rise as Middle East tensions escalate | GETTY
Global financial markets fell sharply on Monday after President Donald Trump issued a 48-hour deadline for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, triggering volatility across equities, oil and bond markets.
Brent crude surged past $113 per barrel, remaining below the recent conflict peak of $119, as the vital shipping route stayed closed amid ongoing hostilities.
The strait handles roughly a fifth of global oil supplies, heightening concerns about energy disruption and inflation.
Our money reporter Joe Sledge has the full story here.
Nigel Farage says Golders Green ambulance attack is part of ‘rising tide of hate’
Nigel Farage has said the attack on Jewish community ambulances in Golders Green is part of a “rising tide of hate”.
The Reform UK leader said: “The horrible attack on volunteer ambulances is part of a rising tide of hate against Jewish communities in Britain.
“As I write, more undocumented young men are crossing the Channel. Many will be from Iran, we have an open door to potential enemies.”
Reform’s Education spokeswoman and former Home Secretary Suella Braverman said: “Let’s call this what it is: terrorism. Two tier policing, failure to ban the hate marches and a tolerance of antisemitism have led us to this.
“Spineless governments, Tory and Labour, have utterly failed to stop the poison of extremism from spreading on our streets. Sick of it.”
Zack Polanski ‘horrified’ by Jewish ambulance attack in Golders Green
Zack Polanski has condemned the overnight attack
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Zack Polanski said he was “horrified” by the overnight attack on Jewish ambulances in Golders Green.
The Green Party leader said: “Antisemitism is vile and has no place here.
“Solidarity with the Jewish community in Golders Green and with our communities across the country who will be feeling this today.”
Shabana Mahmood thanks emergency services as she condemns Golders Green Jewish ambulance attack
Shabana Mahmood has thanked the work of emergency services as she condemned the attack on ambulances in Golders Green.
The Home Secretary said: “I am appalled at the arson attack on ambulances in North London overnight. Anyone with knowledge of this horrific incident should contact the police.
“My message to our Jewish community is clear, we stand with you against the unacceptable scourge of antisemitism.
“My thanks to the professionalism of the emergency responders tackling the blaze.”
Senior Conservative condemns ‘horrendous incident’ in Golders Green
Robbie Moore appearing on GB News this morning to discuss the attack in Golders Green
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A senior Conservative has condemned the attack on Jewish community-led ambulances in Golders Green as a “horrendous incident.”
Shadow Environment Minister Robbie Moore told GB News: “Quite rightly, the police are looking at this being an antisemitic attack.
“It is deeply concerning and I hope there will be the right action that is taken. Police are currently looking to get to the facts of the case so we can provide ultimately reassurance to the Jewish community.
“We need to make sure community tensions are eased after what seems to be a horrendous attack.
“It’s not just in Golders Green where that level of concern has been raised we have seen this across the country. The Government do need to focus on providing that level of reassurance.”
Union chief demands emergency taskforce to tackle economic fallout of the US-Iranian conflict
Unions are calling for an emergency taskforce, learning from the lessons of the Covid pandemic, to help protect the UK from the economic fallout of the US-Iranian conflict.
The TUC said ministers should urgently bring together employers and unions to discuss plans and contingencies amid rising energy prices.
Dealing with the crisis requires a “national, urgent and collaborative” approach across a range of sectors, said the union body.
The TUC said a similar collaborative approach is needed to shield workers and businesses from the economic shock of the current conflict.
Soaring costs, particularly in energy-intensive industries, are already threatening thousands of jobs, it was warned.
TUC general secretary Paul Nowak said: “The lessons from the pandemic are clear. When unions, employers and government came together we were able to move at speed to protect jobs, keep businesses afloat and give families security through an incredibly uncertain time.
“With the UK and global economy now facing huge shocks from the conflict in Iran, we need that same approach again.
“We can’t afford to sit back and wait for the damage to be done. We need to get around the table and get ahead of this crisis.”
Keir Starmer condemns Golders Green ambulance attack as ‘deeply shocking’
The scene from the car park in Golders Green
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Sir Keir Starmer has condemned the attack on Jewish community-run ambulances in Golders Green, calling it “deeply shocking”.
The Prime Minister said: “My thoughts are with the Jewish community who are waking up this morning to this horrific news. Antisemitism has no place in our society.
“Anyone with any information must come forward to the police.”
Mayor of London, Sir Sadiq Khan added : “This is a cowardly attack on the Jewish community.
“I am in close contact with the police who are stepping up patrols in the area, and I urge anyone with information to come forward. Londoners will never be cowed by this kind of hatred and intimidation.”
Here’s what’s happening today in Westminster
Good morning and Happy Monday from all of us on the GB News Politics team. Here’s what’s happening today in Westminster and beyond.
Breaking in the last few hours, Health Secretary Wes Streeting has strongly condemned the overnight attack on Jewish community-run ambulances in Golders Green, calling it “sickening.”
Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook will be joining us on GB News to talk about plans for seven new towns to be built across England, with the locations revealed. Our reporter Peter Stevens has the full story here.
We’ll also be joined by Shadow Farming Minister Robbie Moore this morning, who is leading a debate into an e-petition relating to access to court and tribunal transcripts later today.
Also in Westminster today, Lib Dem MP for Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross Jamie Stone will be holding a debate on an e-petition relating to the clinical trial into puberty blockers.
Meanwhile, Reform UK is having yet another local elections launch, with party leader Nigel Farage and Chair Dr David Bull holding a rally in Ipswich this evening.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander is also set to announce a “reset” of HS2, with Politico reporting the speed of its trains could be reduced.