Lib Dems pledge to end restrictive economy and propose EU growth-defence partnership

Deputy Leader Daisy Cooper announced at the Liberal Democrats’ annual conference that the party will pursue a “Growth and Defence Partnership” with the European Union. In her speech, Cooper outlined a framework that would deepen economic collaboration and security coordination between the UK and EU member states, emphasizing the need for joint investment in technology, trade facilitation, and defence capabilities to bolster both prosperity and regional stability.

The proposal comes amid ongoing discussions about post‑Brexit relations, where the UK seeks to balance sovereignty with strategic cooperation. Cooper cited recent joint exercises and trade agreements as foundations for a more formalized partnership, suggesting that shared standards and pooled resources could enhance the UK’s competitiveness while contributing to collective European security. The party’s leadership indicated that the initiative will be presented to the government and EU officials in the coming months, with the aim of shaping policy dialogue ahead of the next parliamentary session.