On 9 Dec 2025 Dr Al Pinkerton MP, who speaks for the Lib Dems on Europe sent a message about the first vote on his proposed new law forcing the Government to negotiate a new Customs Union deal with the EU: “We won the vote with a majority of one and in the face of stiff opposition from the Conservatives and Reform.” (The photo shows Lib Dems MPs - & Jennie, the guide dog - celebrating the Lib Dem victory).
Dr Pinkerton continues saying it was clear the Tories and Reform, "would have preferred the status quo of maintaining trade barriers and red tape for our businesses, rather than admit that their botched Brexit has been a disaster. They voted for more economic stagnation, more red tape, and more bureaucracy for our businesses.
In the face of that cynicism, I was so pleased to see 13 MPs from the Labour backbenchers joining Liberal Democrats in the ‘Yes’ lobby - though disappointed that the Government itself abstained on the vote.
Across the country, people are crying out for real change and a solution to the cost-of-living crisis.
I am delighted that, finally, the House of Commons seems to be listening, and has expressed its support for a customs union - the biggest lever for growth which the Government could pull.
The Prime Minister must now listen to Parliament and the public, drop his self-imposed red line on a customs union, and finally pursue a genuine opportunity for growth through an ambitious trade deal with the EU.
A new customs union would remove crippling barriers to trade, help tackle inflation, and raise over £25 billion a year for the Exchequer - money desperately needed for public services and support for those struggling.
As my Bill now progresses through the House of Commons, we must now make this case to the Government even more loudly - and we will need your support."
Businesses across Slough know that many businesses have been harmed by Brexit, and know that re-joining the Customs Union would be an important early step in undoing the damage done to the UK by Brexit.
