The short version
- Prime Minister Andy Burnham has indicated that rejoining the European Union is one of several options under consideration to reshape Britain's long-term ties with Europe.
- This stance represents a notable shift from the party's 2024 election manifesto, which ruled out returning to the single market or customs union and focused on making Brexit work.
- The proposal has drawn sharp criticism from Conservative opponents who argue it risks reopening divisive political battles and unfairly blames past events for current economic challenges.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has explicitly placed the possibility of the United Kingdom rejoining the European Union on the table, describing it as one of several potential paths to redefine the nation's relationship with its continental neighbors. In interviews and speeches delivered late in September, the leader suggested that the government should examine what is practically achievable to repair ties, noting that the current post-Brexit settlement has caused more damage than benefit. This development marks a significant evolution in the administration's approach, moving beyond the limited resets previously pursued by his predecessor.
The shift appears to contradict earlier commitments made during the 2024 general election campaign. At that time, the Labour Party manifesto pledged to make Brexit work while firmly ruling out rejoining either the EU single market or its customs union. Sir Keir Starmer, who preceded Burnham in office, had focused on narrower adjustments such as aligning food standards, establishing youth visa agreements, and reconnecting British industry with the European carbon trading system. Burnham’s current rhetoric suggests a willingness to explore much broader structural changes.
During his address at the Labour conference, Burnham argued that Brexit resulted in a loss of control over both immigration policy and economic management. He stated that the existing relationship was insufficient and promised to use a delayed summit with EU leaders later this year to outline various options for future cooperation. The prime minister emphasized the need to avoid leaving the question of European relations unresolved, aiming instead to clarify Britain's strategic direction for the coming decade.
In discussions with media outlets, Burnham outlined a spectrum of possibilities ranging from maintaining the status quo to full reintegration. He referenced proposals for a customs union, similar to ideas floated by former Chancellor George Osborne, as well as Liberal Democrat suggestions for single market membership. The prime minister acknowledged that he had previously advocated for rejoining the EU within his lifetime but noted that current circumstances require a careful assessment of pros and cons for each available path.
The political implications of this pivot are substantial. Conservative opponents have quickly seized on the comments, accusing the government of attempting to reopen old wounds and restart the contentious debates that characterized the Brexit years. Alex Burghart, the Conservative deputy leader, argued that Labour cannot attribute its own economic difficulties to a vote cast over a decade ago. He further claimed that the current administration is already dragging the country back toward the EU through incremental policy changes.
Burnham’s position also contrasts with his statements during the recent Makerfield by-election. At that time, he promised not to re-run Brexit arguments and explicitly stated he was not proposing that the UK consider rejoining the EU. The apparent reversal has raised questions about the stability of the party's platform and whether this represents a genuine policy shift or a tactical adjustment in response to evolving political pressures.
The timing of these announcements coincides with other major policy shifts, including plans to end the pension triple lock by 2030 to help fund social care. Burnham has also promised to publish a ten-year plan to transform the UK economy, which may provide further context for his views on international trade and regulatory alignment. The rescheduled EU summit offers a platform to present these ideas formally, potentially setting the agenda for future negotiations.
As the government moves forward, it faces the challenge of building consensus around any new direction. Burnham has indicated a desire to find agreement on an option that clarifies the UK's position, though he has not specified how such consensus would be measured or achieved. The coming months will likely see intense scrutiny of these proposals, with political parties and interest groups weighing the economic and social implications of closer ties versus continued independence.
The debate underscores the enduring complexity of Britain's relationship with Europe. While some argue that deeper integration offers economic stability and regulatory clarity, others remain concerned about sovereignty and the potential for renewed political division. The prime minister’s willingness to explore all options suggests a pragmatic approach, but it also risks alienating voters who supported Brexit or those who fear a return to previous arrangements.
Ultimately, the decision on how to proceed will depend on a careful evaluation of what is doable in the current political and economic climate. Burnham has framed this as a necessary step to ensure Britain's long-term prosperity, but the path forward remains uncertain. The upcoming summit and subsequent policy announcements will be critical in determining whether these signals translate into concrete action or remain rhetorical explorations.
Sources behind this briefing
Go to the original reporting
- BBC News↗Move to rejoin EU among options for UK, says Burnham
