Alliance Deputy Leader Eóin Tennyson MLA has called on Labour leader Keir Starmer to abandon his "self-defeating" red lines regarding re-entering the Single Market and Customs Union, urging him to pursue a closer relationship with the European Union.

The Upper Bann MLA's comments follow recent speculation that the UK Government is open to a form of regulatory alignment with the EU on food and agricultural products, ahead of the upcoming joint UK-EU summit next month.

Mr. Tennyson has written to the Prime Minister, urging him to expedite a deal with the EU. "Alliance was the first party to call for a comprehensive food and agricultural agreement between the UK and EU, and we continue to advocate the closest possible relationship, in order to eliminate unnecessary red tape, boost trade and strengthen our economy," Mr. Tennyson stated.

He emphasised the need for swift action from the government: "It is vital the Government moves to secure a comprehensive agreement without delay. They have previously set out a series of red lines regarding the relationship with the EU. Keir Starmer must realise these are self-defeating and achieve nothing other than limiting opportunities for growth. They must be dropped."

Mr. Tennyson argued that Labour's current stance is counterproductive: "It makes no sense to continue this opposition when it is only through closer alignment and cooperation between the UK and the EU the disastrous impact of Brexit will be mitigated. With an unpredictable and unreliable occupant in the White House, it is more important than ever we strengthen and bolster our relationship with our European partners."