The agreement between the UK and the EU, aimed at recalibrating their post-Brexit relationship, is a pragmatic step forward ~ one that seeks to balance political realities with economic necessity. Yet, despite its surface-level optimism, the deal exposes enduring fault lines in Britain’s post-EU trajectory, and raises questions about sovereignty, fairness, and long-term vision. At its heart, the agreement delivers real gains for UK exporters, especially in the beleaguered food and drink sector. After years of disruption, producers may finally see an easing of the bureaucratic chokehold that followed Brexit. For small businesses, fewer checks and harmonised food standards could mean survival and even growth. However, this relief comes with a price: dynamic alignment with EU food regulations and the jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice in related disputes.

This is not just a technical concession ~ it’s a symbolic one. For those who voted to “take back control,” the return of EU........

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