On the 9th December 2025, I voted in favour of the UK-EU Customs Union (Duty to Negotiate) Bill. The vote on the bill was tied, with 100 MPs voting each way. This left Deputy Speaker Caroline Nokes to cast the deciding vote. Her decision to vote in favour means the bill will now progress to its Second Reading in due course.
Lambeth was one of the highest Remain-voting boroughs in the 2016 referendum. During the Brexit Referendum and subsequent debates, I was a consistent supporter of Remain and continue to advocate for a closer relationship with the European Union.
Since Brexit, local traders, SMEs and larger corporations have faced new administrative costs and delays that have complicated trade with the EU. A more streamlined and predictable trading environment would help to support growth and strengthen the resilience of UK supply chains. A modernised and robust UK-EU customs arrangement could meaningfully reduce these burdens by simplifying the movement of goods and offering exporters a clearer, more stable framework.
The introduction of the UK-EU Customs Union Bill marks a constructive step toward bettering our relationship with Europe. I was elected on a manifesto that pledged to remove unnecessary barriers, support British businesses, and secure an agreement with the EU that is fair, pragmatic, and mutually beneficial. It is my hope that the government remains focused on this pledge so that the UK can thrive under a renewed and forward-looking partnership with the EU.