New UK Prime Minister Seeks Stronger European Ties with France
British Prime Minister Andy Burnham hosted his first meeting with a European leader on Thursday. He met French President Emmanuel Macron in London. They discussed important shared issues. These included managing migration, the war in Ukraine, and future trade.
The meeting took place at Mr. Burnham’s office on Downing Street. This was his first time welcoming a European leader. He became Prime Minister on July 20. He took over from former Labour Party leader Keir Starmer.
Both leaders talked about the challenges of migration. They spoke about people crossing the English Channel in small boats. They also discussed larger “mega dinghies” used to transport migrants. These often arrive on England’s south coast.
The UK government reported fewer small boat arrivals this summer. These numbers are the lowest since 2020. However, the government will continue to fight criminal groups. These groups help people make dangerous sea crossings.
To help, France will send 45 extra officers. These officers will patrol the western beaches of France. This effort supports an agreement made in April. The goal is to stop unauthorized crossings in the English Channel. Prime Minister Burnham noted that UK and France working together shows good progress.
Mr. Burnham also wants closer cooperation with Europe. He aims to boost the UK’s economy after Brexit. He believes Britain should be “bolder” in its relationship with the European Union. However, he will not rejoin the EU’s single market or customs union. He also rejects returning to its internal freedom of movement rules.
A concern for the UK is the EU’s “Made in Europe” plan. This plan seeks to protect steel industries within EU countries. The UK government fears this could harm Britain’s own struggling steel sector. A UK government spokesperson said this plan could create significant problems for British industry.
President Macron described the meeting as “very important.” He showed a strong commitment to bringing the two countries closer together.
The leaders also discussed defence matters. They spoke about setting up assembly lines in Ukraine for SCALP missiles. These long-range missiles use British technology. They also reflected on the successful “Coalition of the Willing” meeting held in Kyiv last week.
