Starmer Eyes Closer EU Single Market Ties for UK's 'National Interest'

• PM Keir Starmer suggests "closer alignment" with the EU single market, citing UK's "national interest" amidst economic crisis.
• Starmer prefers single market over rejoining a customs union, a shift from his previous stance due to new trade deals.
• Ongoing talks with Brussels include food/drink and youth mobility, but full freedom of movement is ruled out.
• The move faces strong criticism from Reform UK and Conservatives, who label it a "Brexit betrayal."
• Starmer maintains any alignment must serve national interest, ruling out rejoining EU single market/customs union or ending freedom of movement as per manifesto.

Why It Matters: Starmer signals a strategic shift towards deeper EU single market ties for UK economic benefit.