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Prospects for UK-India Relations following 2024 Elections

by Lord Jitesh Gadhia
The outcomes of the 2024 elections in both the UK and India has ushered in a
period of change which will shape the future trajectory of bilateral relations. As
both countries emerge from their respective political processes, the future of
UK-India ties will be determined by a combination of political leadership, trade
interests, and geopolitical realities.
The Political Landscape
In the UK, the new government remains committed - at least thus far - to
strengthening ties with India, acknowledging the country’s status as one of the
world’s fastest-growing economies. Both Conservative and Labour parties have
also recognised the importance of India beyond trade, extending to defence and global diplomacy.
With the potential for a new trade agreement on the horizon, an early test for Sir Kier Starmer and
team will be the priority and pragmatism devoted to concluding negotiations, which were already well-
advanced under the previous administration. A positive outcome would provide an early boost Labour’s
core mission to revive growth and promote wealth creation.
Meanwhile, in India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi remains a dominant force despite the BJP
losing an overall standalone parliamentary majority. Under Modi’s leadership, India has pursued an
assertive foreign policy agenda, focused on securing economic development, strengthening defence
partnerships, and solidifying its role as a major global power. There is a willingness to deepen UK-India
relations but there also remains intense competition for India’s attention from many different suitors.

Economic and Trade Relations
Both nations have expressed mutual interest in securing a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), though
negotiations have been complex and protracted. The UK, looking for non-European markets post-
Brexit, rightly views India as a key trading partner, with both sides eyeing benefits in sectors such as
technology, pharmaceuticals, and financial services.
The 2024 elections may provide fresh momentum for an FTA, as both governments seek to cement
their post-election mandates. Stable and self-confident governments are required on both sides
to handle the complexities of such a deal, including issues related to tariffs, data protection, and
migration - all of which will be contentious. The UK will need to navigate India’s demands for
greater access to skilled visas and reduced barriers for its exports, while India must address concerns
about intellectual property and market access for UK businesses, especially the services sector, and
protections for foreign investors.
Geopolitical Considerations
Geopolitically, the UK and India share converging interests in the Indo-Pacific region. As tensions with
China persist, particularly in areas of trade and security, India is positioning itself as a critical player in
regional diplomacy. The UK, having announced its Indo-Pacific tilt in its post-Brexit foreign policy, seeks
to be more involved in the region, with India as a key counterpart in this strategy.
Cultural and Diaspora Ties
Beyond politics and economics, the cultural ties between the UK and India remain strong. The Indian
diaspora in the UK, numbering over 1.8 million, continues to play an influential role in strengthening
bilateral relations. The diaspora’s growing political and economic influence in the UK can serve as a
bridge between the two nations, fostering stronger cultural, educational, and social ties.

Educational exchanges and collaborations between universities in the UK and India are also expected
to expand. Indian students form one of the largest groups of international students in the UK, and
post-election policies in both countries could focus on increasing mobility, research collaboration, and
knowledge sharing in fields such as science, technology, and medicine.
Conclusion 7
Our shared values, mutual respect, and common goals should drive the UK and India toward a future
of greater collaboration and engagement on the global stage. However, overcoming differences on
trade, immigration, and the geopolitics of the subcontinent will be critical to realising the full potential
of this relationship. In an increasingly multipolar world, UK-India collaboration will not only benefit
both nations but also contribute to shaping the global order in the years to come.