Politics

Kemi Badenoch Slams Keir Starmer for Conceding to EU Demands

Published on May 20, 2025

Kemi Badenoch has launched a sharp criticism of Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s new agreement with the European Union, claiming that the UK is “becoming a rule-taker from Brussels once again.” The remarks come amid growing backlash over the terms of the updated fisheries deal and concerns about future immigration arrangements.

The Conservative Party leader took to X (formerly Twitter) to express her frustration, particularly with the fisheries section of the agreement. “12 years access to British waters is three times longer than the govt wanted. We’re becoming a rule-taker from Brussels once again,” she wrote.

Under the new deal, the UK has granted the EU 12 years of continued access to British fishing waters, a significant concession from the Government’s initial position, which proposed a four-year extension. The access will now remain in place until 2038—a move described as a “major win” for Brussels and a point of contention for Brexit supporters who had hoped for tighter control over British waters post-EU departure.

The agreement is part of Sir Keir Starmer’s broader “reset” strategy in EU relations, aimed at stabilizing post-Brexit cooperation. However, Badenoch warned that the move undermines UK sovereignty and rekindles concerns over the return of free movement, especially with discussions underway for a potential youth mobility scheme with the EU.

“With no details on any cap or time limits on Youth Mobility, fears of free movement returning will only increase. This is very concerning,” Badenoch added.

Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds refused to confirm whether a youth mobility agreement would come with limitations on the number of participants, further fueling speculation.

In addition to Conservative backlash, the agreement has sparked criticism from devolved governments. Scottish Culture Secretary Angus Robertson condemned the UK Government for proceeding without consulting or involving the devolved administrations.

In a post on X, Robertson wrote: “UK Govt has agreed a fisheries (devolved) deal with EU in principle, without any recourse, involvement or approval of Devolved Admins. Scottish Government received no documentation or draft proposals in advance. I asked UK minister last week for this. Nothing received. Reset?”

EU leaders are scheduled to meet in London on Monday to further discuss the deal, which has now come under fire from multiple political fronts. As the dust settles, the Government faces growing pressure to clarify its stance on immigration, fisheries, and the broader implications of its “reset” with Brussels.