In early December 2025, Sir Keir Starmer, the UK’s Prime Minister, intensified his rhetoric on Brexit, stating that it would be reckless to use Brexit as a model for future foreign policy. This shift in language comes almost a decade after the referendum on the UK’s departure from the European Union, suggesting a renewed focus on how Brexit impacts the nation’s international relationships. Starmer's comments were made during a session at Prime Minister's Questions, where he reaffirmed existing commitments to remain outside of the single market and customs union, even as he hinted at the possibility of exploring a closer alignment with the EU through informal discussions. The political landscape in the UK has evolved significantly since the Brexit vote, with public sentiment appearing to shift away from the issue as other pressing matters come to the forefront. Starmer, who has previously supported a second referendum on the matter, seems to be recalibrating Labour's stance to accommodate the current political climate. His remarks seem to respond to an impulse within the Labour party to better connect with the electorate, especially in light of the recent election results, where the Conservatives won a substantial majority. This new positioning could indicate a strategic pledge toward a progressive approach while acknowledging the complexities involved in the post-Brexit environment. Amidst this backdrop, Starmer's approach is part of a larger narrative within the government regarding trade and economic relations that are crucial to securing Labour's coalition. Conversations around rejoining the customs union have emerged, motivated by the understanding that a closer relationship with the EU could appeal to disaffected voters who previously supported Brexit but now prioritize economic concerns. This shifting sentiment within both major parties indicates that Brexit discussions remain integral to the UK's political fabric, even as the immediacy of the issue appears to have diminished for some segments of the electorate. Despite Starmer's recognition that existing agreements crafted by previous Prime Minister Theresa May are to remain unchanged in certain critical aspects, he seems to signal a willingness to explore alternative routes for enhancing the UK’s relationship with the EU. Analysts question whether there is substantial room for manoeuvre given the government’s established red lines, notably the separation from the single market and customs union. However, among party insiders, there is a growing belief that recalibrating the conversation around Brexit could yield dividends in the long term, both for Labour and for the UK as a whole.