Epsom & Ewell MP, Helen Maguire, is delighted to join Liberal Democrat leader, Ed Davey, in calling on the Government to negotiate a new customs union deal with the European Union.

Sir Ed argues the move is necessary to boost Britain’s economy and handle the unpredictability of incoming US President Donald Trump with a position of strength.

Countries in a customs union agree not to impose tariffs (or charges) - or custom checks on each other’s goods.

In his speech on Thursday, Sir Ed Davey said:

“A Trump trade war will mean hardship and misery for all our people, across Europe.”

”So we must work together to prevent it. To deal with Trump together, from a position of maximum combined strength.”

”The UK must be far more positive, far more ambitious, and act with far more urgency.”

“Not just tinkering around the edges of the botched deal the Conservatives signed four years ago – but negotiating a better deal for Britain, that has at its heart a new UK-EU Customs Union, to come into force by twenty-thirty at the latest.”

”Forming a Customs Union with the EU is not only the single biggest thing we can do to turbocharge our economy in the medium and long term, but an agreement to work towards one will unlock big economic benefits for the UK now.”

Maguire, who also serves at the Liberal Democrats’ defence spokesperson, believes building bridges with Europe will bolster the UK’s national security whilst also turbocharging business in Epsom and Ewell.

Helen Maguire MP says:

“The UK has always been a proud leader in Europe, but now more than ever, I urge this Government to stand up and lead once again at a time of increased risk to our national security.”

”The incoming Trump Administration brings uncertainty to peace and prosperity in the UK, across Europe, and around the world. The people of Epsom and Ewell cannot depend on a man who praised Putin’s invasion of Ukraine as ‘genius’ to be a reliable partner on security, defence or the economy.”

”Rejoining the EU customs union will not only strengthen ties with Europe, our biggest trading partner, but will also boost our defence and security.”

”Our broken relationship with Europe is costing our economy billions in lost exports. It’s time we rip up the expensive red tape that is holding back firms in Epsom and Ewell - especially small businesses - from selling into Europe. “