UK proposal suggests rejoining EU single market via defense pact

A new post-Brexit proposal has been presented that suggests the United Kingdom could rejoin the European Union's single market. The plan, drafted by former MP Nick Boles, proposes the creation of a "European confederation" that would link the single market with NATO's defense commitments.

Under this arrangement, the UK would gain access to the EU's free-trade zone without being required to adopt the Euro or allow freedom of movement. In exchange, Britain would commit to spending 3.5 percent of its GDP on defense and would extend its nuclear deterrent protection to non-NATO allies. The proposal suggests that this security-focused approach could make the deal more palatable to the EU by addressing regional stability concerns, such as those involving Ukraine.

Other nations, including Switzerland, Norway, Ukraine, and Western Balkan countries, would also be invited to join this proposed confederation. While the government has expressed a desire to consolidate progress on UK-EU negotiations, it remains uncertain if the administration will depart from previous political stances regarding the single market and customs union.