By Fatma Younis
Former EU chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier has said the United Kingdom could negotiate a return to the European Union without being forced to adopt the euro, though free movement of people would remain a non-negotiable condition for single market access.
Barnier confirms euro opt-out possible
In an interview with Cathy Newman on Sky News, Barnier stated it would be "perfectly possible to begin such a negotiation [on rejoining the EU] without any kind of obligation to take part in the euro." While new EU members are legally required to join the euro area, Barnier said a "new relationship without this obligation" could be negotiated, citing the precedent of six current EU members that do not use the currency and Denmark's formal opt-out.
Free movement remains non-negotiable
Barnier emphasized that the condition to join the single market and customs union is unchangeable: "There is no negotiation possible. No possible negotiation on any kind of cherry-picking or the single market 'a la carte'." The EU would not compromise on free movement, he said, adding that the UK knows "quite perfectly" the requirements for rejoining.
Farage claim contradicted
The remarks directly counter recent assertions by Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, who claimed the UK would have to sign up to the euro if it reapplied for EU membership. Farage is scheduled to hold a press conference later today alongside Danny Kruger, who leads the party's preparations for government.
Other political events today
London Mayor Sadiq Khan and Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley face questioning by the London Assembly at 10am. The Bank of England is expected to announce an interest rate increase at noon, while the FTSE 100 hit a three-month high.
