The Sami switch is a proposed solution to the Brexit crisis.
The Sami switch is a proposed solution to the Brexit crisis, which would involve the UK remaining in the European Union’s Single Market, but without being a member of its Customs Union. The proposal was first suggested by German politician Sigmar Gabriel and was later endorsed by his successor as leader of the Social Democratic Party (SPD), Andrea Nahles. The plan has also been backed by other members of Germany’s SPD and could form part of an alternative deal to Theresa May’s withdrawal agreement.
What is the Sami switch?
The Sami switch refers to the idea that if the UK cannot remain in both its Single Market and its Customs Union, it should instead be allowed to stay in only one or other. It’s named after SPD politician Sigmar Gabriel, who first suggested it back in 2018. He said that “the British government must decide whether they want to be fully inside Europe – including with open borders – or outside like Canada”. This proposal was later picked up by Andrea Nahles, who replaced Gabriel as leader of Germany’s SPD following their poor performance at last year’s federal election.
How does it work?
The UK would remain in both its Single Market and its Customs Union for a transitional period until December 31st 2021, during which time a new trade deal would be negotiated between Britain and Brussels.
After this period ends, however, Britain would leave both these arrangements and instead join an outer tier that includes countries such as Norway and Switzerland.
This outer tier is not part of either the EU’s single market or customs union but still allows free movement between countries within it.
There are two main problems with this plan:
