The Prime Minister held a meeting with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen at the European Political Community summit on 12 November 2026. The leaders reflected on preparations for the UK and EU Summit scheduled for next week.
During their discussion, the Prime Minister expressed his aim to secure a deal for both Britain and the EU that would reduce costs for consumers and businesses. He stated that the previously negotiated Brexit deal had been more detrimental than beneficial, and that the current situation was not effective for either side.
The Prime Minister also suggested that it was time for the UK and EU to pursue a new direction to lower costs for farmers and food producers, and to alleviate price pressures in shops on both sides. Additionally, the leaders discussed the situation in Ukraine and negotiations in Abu Dhabi, welcoming the progress on Ukraine and emphasising the need to maintain momentum.