Story perspectives

German MEP Says UK Could Secure “Switzerland Plus” Deal

By Drooid · Oct 17, 2026, 9:59 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

German MEP Bernd Lange says the United Kingdom could negotiate a “Switzerland plus” EU deal within months.
Lange, chair of the EU Parliament’s Trade Committee, said he would love to see the UK back.
He suggested the “plus” element would give the UK political engagement beyond Switzerland’s passive status.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham will use a Brussels summit next month to seek a growth-focused EU reset.

History

Historical Context

After France’s President Charles de Gaulle blocked two British bids in 1963 and 1967, Prime Minister Edward Heath secured the United Kingdom’s entry when the accession treaty was signed on 22 January 1972 and the European Communities Act took effect on 1 January 1973, expanding the EEC to nine members. The 1975 referendum confirmed 67 % support, and today MEP Bernd Lange’s “Switzerland-plus” plan echoes that integration drive.

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Story summary

German MEP Bernd Lange says the United Kingdom could negotiate a “Switzerland plus” EU deal within months.
Lange, chair of the EU Parliament’s Trade Committee, said he would love to see the UK back.
He suggested the “plus” element would give the UK political engagement beyond Switzerland’s passive status.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham will use a Brussels summit next month to seek a growth-focused EU reset.

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