Burnham offered EU trade deal in exchange for nuclear shield

Nick Boles

Andy Burnham has been presented with a radical post-Brexit blueprint that would give Britain access to the EU’s Single Market in return for extending its military and nuclear protection across Europe.

The proposal, drawn up by former Conservative MP Nick Boles, would create a new “European Confederation” linking the bloc’s economic power with Nato-style defence commitments.

Britain Would Trade Defence for Market Access

Under the plan, Britain would seek access to the EU Single Market for goods without accepting freedom of movement or joining the eurozone.

In return, the UK would commit 3.5% of GDP to defence and extend its nuclear umbrella to European countries outside Nato’s protection. Ukraine, Switzerland, Norway and Western Balkan states would be invited to join the proposed confederation.

Ukraine would also maintain a large military force as a frontline deterrent against future Russian aggression and share drone technology with European partners.

A Bigger Deal Than Brexit Alone

Boles argues Britain would struggle to secure special access to the Single Market through a straightforward bilateral deal. His strategy instead attempts to offer Brussels solutions to wider problems, particularly Ukraine’s future relationship with Europe.

The former MP said the proposal could also address concerns over migration and the EU budget while giving Britain a route back towards closer economic cooperation.

The plan has been circulated among senior officials, including national security adviser Jonathan Powell, although it is not Government policy.

Trump Uncertainty Drives the Push

Boles said Europe could no longer assume a future US president would defend the continent with the same commitment as in the past.

His proposal has been discussed with figures including former prime minister Gordon Brown, Michael Gove and former foreign policy adviser John Bew, while the Demos think tank has published the blueprint.

Brussels Talks Could Set the Direction

Previous efforts to secure Single Market access were rejected because Brussels was unwilling to give Britain special treatment while it remained outside the EU.

The Government is nevertheless examining ways to deepen cooperation with Brussels, with proposals expected to feature in discussions at a planned leaders’ summit in October.

For Burnham, the emerging choice is potentially far bigger than another Brexit “reset”: whether Britain should trade closer European economic integration for a dramatically expanded role in the continent’s defence.

Burnham told to trade nuclear umbrella for access to single market