Senior MEP suggests ‘Switzerland plus’ model for UK-EU ties

A senior member of the European Parliament has suggested that a ‘Switzerland plus’ arrangement could be a viable option for the United Kingdom if it seeks closer ties with the European Union. Bernd Lange, head of the European Parliament’s International Trade Committee, made the remarks during a panel discussion at Europe House in London on Thursday. Lange, who was involved in the Brexit negotiations, said the EU’s “doors are open” to Britain.

Lange explained that a Switzerland plus deal could involve “some kind of political cooperation” alongside agreements on trade, security, raw materials, and digital policy. He noted that Switzerland, while not an EU member, has bilateral agreements with the bloc that allow access to parts of the single market and smooth relations in areas such as trade, security, transport, and education. Switzerland also makes a financial contribution to EU economic and social cohesion funds and accepts free movement of people.

Growing debate in the UK

The suggestion comes amid a reignited debate in the UK over the post-Brexit relationship with Brussels. Prime Minister Andy Burnham recently told MPs that “sticking with the current status quo is not good enough for Britain” and called for a conversation about future relations to promote growth, control immigration, and uphold values and security. Burnham has repeatedly signalled an intention to move the UK closer to the EU, with re-entering the bloc among the potential options.

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has accused the Prime Minister of “unpicking” the Brexit withdrawal agreement and warned that he would not get a better deal. Lange is due to meet UK Trade Minister Anas Sarwar and MPs Stella Creasy and Liam Byrne to discuss options for bringing the UK and EU closer together. He said a Switzerland plus deal could be negotiated within months of any decision to strengthen relations, and added that he would “love to see the UK back.”