Streeting backs closer EU links as PM holds the line

SIR Keir Starmer is “very happy” with his Cabinet and will be stick- ing to his “red lines” with the EU, Downing Street insisted, after Wes Streeting appeared to back joining a customs union.

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Wes Streeting

(GARETH FULLER/ PA WIRE)

The Health Secretary told the Observer newspaper that a “deeper trading relationship” with Europe would be a means of boosting the UK’s economic growth, in what appeared to be a direct challenge to Sir Keir.

The Prime Minister ruled out a change in the Government’s policy towards a customs union only in recent weeks.

“The Prime Minister is very happy with his Cabinet,” No 10 said when asked if Sir Keir was happy with ministers speaking on issues outside of their brief.