British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has indicated that the UK may explore rejoining the European Union as one of several options for its future relationship with Europe, following a decade of post-Brexit challenges. The remarks, made during a Labour Party conference speech, were met with immediate positive responses from European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, who both expressed openness to the UK’s potential return.
In a subsequent interview with ITV, Burnham suggested that if public opinion continues to shift toward re-entry, Labour’s next election manifesto could include a commitment to another referendum on the issue. The next general election is not expected until 2029, though Burnham has emphasized the need for careful consideration, acknowledging that referendums can be divisive.
Key developments in the story:
1. UK explores re-entry options amid Brexit fallout
Burnham’s comments follow his assertion that Brexit has failed to deliver on its promises, particularly in economic performance and immigration control. He argued that the UK’s current relationship with the EU is insufficient and that the country must examine all possible avenues for future cooperation, including rejoining the EU, the single market, or a customs union. Burnham has stated that he will adhere to Labour’s 2024 election manifesto, which ruled out rejoining the EU, the single market, or the customs union, but he has left the door open to revisiting these positions based on evolving public sentiment.
2. European leaders respond positively to Burnham’s remarks
Macron, speaking alongside Sanchez in Madrid, called a potential UK re-entry into the EU “excellent news” and “a good decision.” Sanchez echoed this sentiment, stating that Spain would welcome Britain back “with open arms.” Macron also criticized Brexit as the “biggest lie of the last 30 years,” citing economic underperformance and unresolved immigration issues as evidence of its failure. He added that the UK’s re-entry would be beneficial for both parties, emphasizing the UK’s historical role in simplifying EU processes.
Context and reactions
Public opinion shifts and political tensions
A June poll by Survation found that 55% of voters would opt to rejoin the EU if a referendum were held today, up from the 52% Leave vote in 2016. However, support for rejoining often declines when specific requirements, such as adopting the euro or contributing to the EU budget, are considered. Burnham has acknowledged these complexities, stating that any decision must balance public sentiment with practical realities.
Political reactions within the UK have been mixed. Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch has criticized Burnham’s remarks, framing them as a reversal of the 2016 referendum result. Meanwhile, some Labour Party members have expressed concerns about reigniting Brexit debates, particularly given Burnham’s previous statements opposing a second referendum. In a May 2024 by-election in Makerfield, a Leave-voting constituency, Burnham had stated that he did not support re-running Brexit arguments and respected the 2016 vote. He reiterated this position in a Leeds investment summit, warning that constant debate could leave Britain in a “permanent rut.”
Policy constraints and EU conditions
Burnham has reiterated that any move toward re-entry would require adherence to Labour’s manifesto commitments, which currently exclude rejoining the EU, single market, or customs union. However, he has indicated that these positions are not set in stone and could evolve based on public opinion. The EU has not yet indicated whether it would be willing to offer the UK terms favorable to re-entry, particularly given the bloc’s recent expansion and the complexities of negotiating a return.
Expert and media perspectives
Analysts have noted that while public sentiment appears to favor rejoining the EU, the practical and political hurdles remain significant. David Henig, an expert on UK-EU relations, told AFP that Burnham’s remarks reflect a broader recognition of Brexit’s shortcomings. However, others, such as commentator Daniel Hannan, have argued that the UK is unlikely to rejoin the EU, citing voter fatigue with Brexit debates and the EU’s own challenges, including economic stagnation and institutional dysfunction.
What happens next?
Burnham has suggested that a summit with EU leaders could take place later this year, though no formal negotiations are expected until after the next general election. The UK’s next steps will depend on public opinion, political consensus, and the EU’s willingness to engage in re-entry discussions. For now, Burnham’s remarks have reignited debates about the UK’s future relationship with Europe, with both domestic and international stakeholders closely monitoring developments.