UK and EU to hold Brexit summit Nov. 20 to sign new agreements

Britain and the European Union are set to hold their annual leaders summit on November 20 in Brussels, with the aim of signing off on new agreements concerning agri-food trade, emissions trading, and a youth mobility scheme. UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham confirmed the date, stating his intention to secure these deals and then initiate a "calm, clear-eyed, rational look" at closer relations.

Burnham articulated that continuing with the status quo is insufficient for Britain and that exploring different options for the long-term relationship is a necessary conversation for promoting growth, controlling immigration, and upholding values and security. He also plans to raise concerns about the EU's "Made In Europe" protectionist program.

Opposition leader Kemi Badenoch criticized Burnham's focus on the EU relationship, suggesting he was attempting to "unpick the deal" and that neither leaving nor rejoining the EU were serious positions. She argued that the EU are tough negotiators and the UK would not secure a better deal.

António Costa, president of the European Council, issued a statement emphasizing that improving cooperation is "essential" and that the three agreements under negotiation could be supplemented by further deals on defense, security, migration, and law enforcement. He described the EU and UK as "like-minded partners" with intertwined security and prosperity.

The summit, which will also include European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, was originally scheduled for July 2026 but was postponed due to the collapse of the previous UK administration led by Keir Starmer. Negotiations for the agreements have been ongoing since the May 2025 summit.