Bernd Lange, Chair of the European Parliament’s Committee on International Trade, stated that, following a political decision to deepen ties with the EU, the UK could agree on an interim «Switzerland plus» model of cooperation within a few months. This does not involve a return to full EU membership, but rather closer relations modelled on the Swiss example.
Briefly about the main points
- Lange estimated that the negotiations could take several months following London’s decision.
- «Switzerland plus» does not provide for the UK’s full membership of the EU.
- The Swiss model is based on sector-specific agreements with the European Union.
- The Industrial Accelerator Act remains a legislative proposal from the European Commission.
What the MEP is proposing
Lange, who was involved in the negotiations concerning Brexit, said that the choice of the future model for relations with the EU depends on the UK itself. In his view, once such a decision had been taken, an agreement could be reached relatively quickly, although political difficulties are possible.
The MEP described «Switzerland plus» as a phased approach to deeper cooperation. It would not grant London full participation in the EU’s political decision-making process, but could provide for a certain level of involvement beyond basic trade relations.
What is the Swiss format based on?
Switzerland is not a member of the EU and maintains relations with it through a network of bilateral and sectoral agreements. The comprehensive package of EU–Switzerland agreements covers, in particular, the free movement of people, regulatory convergence in specific areas, the electricity sector and participation in EU programmes.
European Commission documents state that Switzerland’s annual financial contribution under the new mechanism amounts to 375 million euros. This is not a contribution for EU membership. The package of agreements still has to go through the procedures required for it to enter into force, so not all of its provisions should be regarded as fully in effect.
The debate surrounding EU industrial regulations
Lange also supported the inclusion of the United Kingdom in the «Made in Europe» approach as part of Industrial Accelerator Act. The European Commission proposed this legislation in March 2026: the initiative provides for «Made in the EU» preferences in relation to state aid and public procurement mechanisms, but it has not yet become law.
The Guardian reports on the positions of individual EU member states regarding the UK’s participation in this scheme and on the 5,100 amendments to the initiative, citing Lange. No final decisions have yet been taken either on the new model for relations between London and Brussels or on the status of British manufacturers under the Industrial Accelerator Act.
