The purpose of the Commission is twofold. First, to work with sector leaders to establish the impact of the UK departure from the European Union on our economy, society, politics and place in the world.

Second, to work with sector leaders to define amendments or additions to current agreements which if adopted would improve outcomes for UK communities, businesses, civil society and our European and global partnerships.

The planned review of the UK/EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement in 2026 gives us the chance to revisit the arrangements between the UK and our closest neighbours and major trading partners. That review will be a key task for the next UK government.

The Commission is co-chaired by Mike Clancy, General Secretary of Prospect trade union, and Janice Hughes, CEO of Graphite Strategy. Commission members include Lionel Barber, former editor of the FT, Anna Jerzewska, founder of Trade and Borders, Adrian Binks, CEO of Argus Media and Paula Surridge, political sociologist at Bristol University.

In particular we will examine:  

• barriers to trade in goods and in services between the UK and EU, including regulatory barriers and border and customs processes;

• barriers to mobility;

• barriers to cooperation and exchange between the UK and the EU in areas such as science, education, and culture;

• ways to improve cooperation between the UK and the EU in areas such as security, foreign policy, crime and immigration; and

• ways to improve both the TCA and Ireland/Northern Ireland Protocol to achieve better outcomes for the businesses and people of Northern Ireland.

The Commission is politically independent. We are made up of leaders from business, industry, trade unions, media, academia and civil society.

FAQ 

Brexit is done. Why is the Commission needed? 

The Brexit agreements led to substantive change in the nature of our relationship with the EU. Our economy has been impacted. Beyond the economy there have been impacts in security and defence, healthcare, foreign policy, police and crime cooperation and many more. The Commission will investigate and document these impacts, and will propose changes to the agreements which if implemented would improve outcomes.

How is the Commission funded? 

The Commission is funded by a range of individuals and organisations including Henry Tinsley, David and Elaine Potter and Musicians Union. Further details of our funding will be made available on our website in due course. In the interim please email contact@ukeucommission.org if you have any queries. 

How were members of the Commission chosen? 

Members of the Commission were chosen to ensure a wide range of experience and expertise. They include leaders from the business world, trade unions, journalism, academia and civil society. We have additional expertise available in an advisory group. We will take evidence from a wide range of sources.  

Why is the Commission needed, and why now? 

The Brexit outcome has created challenges for a number of sectors. The current and next government need to address these challenges to ensure the viability of the UK economy and a host of other sectors of society. We will contribute ideas and plans to that process.

The first renegotiation of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement is scheduled for 2026. We hope to inform the debate heading into that renegotiation on this side of the channel and within the EU. 

Is the Commission attached to a political party or campaign group? 

The Commission is politically independent. We are not related to any political party. Over the next year we will engage with all political parties at national level and within devolved nations. We will when appropriate speak with mayors and council leaders. We are not a campaign group or a front for a campaign group. 

Will Commission meetings be public? 

Research meetings of the Commission will be held in private. We will issue regular press releases and reports on our findings and recommendations. The Secretary, co-chairs and Commission members will be available for comment. We will hold in person and online public events.

Will Commissioners be paid? 

Commissioners and Advisors are offering their services free of charge. Expenses, for example for travel, may be covered. Any such expenses will be made public. The Commission is staffed by the Director and a small research team. 

Is the Commission an official body?

The Commission is not an official body of the UK or any other government. The Commission is run by a private company, UK EU Future Ltd, which was formed for the sole purpose of enabling the Commission to operate. Our company number is 13742325. Our address is Aizlewood’s Mill, Nursery Street, Sheffield, S3 8GG.