Portrait of Wes Streeting
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Wes Streeting on Brexit

Pro-closer EU ties (strong) Position evolved

TL;DR

Wes Streeting advocates for a deeper trading relationship with the EU to boost economic growth, acknowledging Brexit's negative impact.

Key Points

  • Stated that the best way to generate economic growth is through a deeper trading relationship with the European Union.

  • Insisted that any new economic partnership cannot permit a return to the freedom of movement for EU citizens.

  • Expressed satisfaction that the political climate now allows for open discussion about the economic problems caused by Brexit.

Summary

Wes Streeting, the Health Secretary, has become more vocal in acknowledging the economic damage caused by the UK's departure from the European Union, stating that leaving the EU has hit the country hard, contributing to high taxation levels and low growth. He explicitly stated that he is glad that Brexit is now a subject that political figures 'dare speak' about, linking it to current economic jeopardy. His position appears to push beyond the current government's stated stance by arguing that the best way to increase economic growth is through a closer trading relationship with the EU, which he suggests could involve a customs union.

While he stresses that any new economic partnership cannot include a return to freedom of movement, his comments signal a desire to reverse or mitigate some of the economic consequences of Brexit. This stance represents an evolution for the Labour Party, which previously avoided direct criticism of the 2016 referendum result due to fears of alienating voters. He views the recent 'reset' with the EU as a 'good start' but clearly desires to move further toward reintegration for economic benefit.

Key Quotes

"We've taken a massive economic hit leaving the European Union. I'm really uncomfortable with the level of taxation in this country.

Frequently Asked Questions

Wes Streeting currently advocates for a closer trading relationship with the EU to improve the UK's economic growth, according to a December 2025 interview. He acknowledges that leaving the European Union caused a 'massive economic hit' to the country. However, he explicitly rules out rejoining the single market or accepting a return to freedom of movement.

Yes, Wes Streeting's position appears to have evolved, as he states he is glad that the damage caused by Brexit is now a topic that politicians 'dare speak' about. This suggests a shift from previous political caution on the subject, as noted in a European Movement update from October 2025.

Wes Streeting suggested that the UK could potentially join the EU customs union as part of a 'deeper trading relationship,' according to reports from December 2025. He clarified, however, that his proposed partnership cannot involve a return to freedom of movement. His comments are interpreted by some outlets as pushing beyond the official government line on the matter.