The United Kingdom and the European Union have agreed to a significant reset of their post-Brexit relationship, encompassing trade, defence, energy, and fishing rights. The agreement, finalised on Sunday and announced at a summit in London on Monday, extends EU fishing access to UK waters until 2038 in exchange for reduced trade frictions and expanded cooperation in several sectors. Under the new terms, European fishing vessels will retain access to British waters for an additional 12 years, extending the previous arrangement set to expire in 2026. In return, the UK anticipates eased trade barriers, particularly for food and drink exports, with some routine checks on animal and plant products to be removed entirely. The government estimates that the trade and energy agreements could add nearly £9 billion to the UK economy by 2040. The deal also includes provisions for the UK to participate in the EU's proposed £150 billion defence fund, allowing British arms firms to bid for contracts. Additionally, British steel exports will be protected from new EU rules and tariffs, and the UK will avoid an EU carbon tax set to be implemented next year through plans to link emissions-trading schemes. Further cooperation is planned on a youth mobility scheme, mirroring existing UK agreements with countries like Australia and New Zealand. The UK has also committed to working towards rejoining the Erasmus programme, facilitating student exchanges and training across Europe. British travellers will benefit from increased access to passport e-gates at European airports. The agreement has elicited mixed reactions from UK political parties. The Conservative Party and Reform UK have criticised the deal, describing it as a concession to the EU. In contrast, the Liberal Democrats have welcomed the agreement as a positive step towards rebuilding ties with Europe. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer emphasised the importance of moving beyond past political disputes over Brexit, stating that the deal represents a practical solution aimed at improving the lives of British citizens. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen hailed the summit as a historic moment, attributing the progress to Sir Keir's leadership. The agreement also addresses energy cooperation, particularly in developing networks in the North Sea, and explores the possibility of the UK joining the EU's internal electricity market. Moreover, there will be increased collaboration on tackling illegal migration, including enhanced intelligence sharing. This reset follows years of strained relations between the UK and the EU post-Brexit. Polling by YouGov indicates that a majority of Britons now regret the Brexit vote and favour closer ties with the EU. However, the Labour government's efforts to strengthen EU relations come at a time when Reform UK party is leading in the polls....