The European Union would be “open-minded” about discussing closer trade ties with the UK – and the idea of Britain joining a customs union, an official has said.
Valdis Dombrovskis, the European Commissioner for Finance, told the BBC that Brussels was “ready to engage” if the UK wanted to explore such a move.
He also signalled that the UK could ultimately join the EU’s defence fund after talks broke down in November over the cost to Britain.
By joining a customs union, tariffs would be eliminates on some or all goods passing between the UK and the EU, streamlining the process and reducing bureaucracy.
Sort: Newest first Oldest first February 3, 2026 7:27 amGood morning – and welcome back
Welcome back to The i Paper’s politics blog on Tuesday, 3 February.
Lord Peter Mandelson has made headlines once again today, after police confirmed they are reviewing misconduct claims against him.
The latest tranche of Epstein files released in the US appeared to show him sharing sensitive information with the disgraced financier via email.
Within it, Lord Mandelson appears to tell Epstein about a €500bn EU bailout while he was serving as business secretary under former prime minister Gordon Brown.
Ella Marriott, Commander of the Metropolitan Police, said: “The reports will all be reviewed to determine if they meet the criminal threshold for investigation.
Lord Peter Mandelson (REUTERS/Jaimi Joy)“As with any matter, if new and relevant information is brought to our attention we will assess it, and investigate as appropriate.”
Lord Mandelson gave an interview to The Times overnight, in which he referred to a “handful of misguided historical emails, which I deeply regret sending”.
Being named in the Epstein files is not a sign of wrongdoing.
Meanwhile, Sir Keir Starmer has asked his Cabinet Secretary Sir Chris Wormald to “urgently” review all the information they have on links between Lord Mandelson and Epstein.
Brown has also asked Wormald to investigate potential leaks during his premiership.
We’ll have updates throughout the day.
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