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Andy Burnham reopens debate on Britain rejoining the EU

Summarised from 20 outlets · 154 reports · Updated 2 Oct, 11:56 · Archive

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has suggested the UK could rejoin the European Union, saying Brexit has done 'more harm than good'.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has put the idea of Britain rejoining the European Union on the table, breaking a taboo for a UK prime minister and reopening the divisive Brexit debate. Speaking at the Labour Party Conference, Burnham said Brexit has done 'more harm than good' to the country. He subsequently told the BBC's Today programme that the government would look at all options, including rejoining, and consider the 'pros and cons' of what is 'doable'.

The response from Europe has been cautiously welcoming. French President Emmanuel Macron and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez have indicated the UK would be 'welcome' back in the EU, though Brussels itself has given a more muted response. However, Burnham's suggestion would test everyone involved, with unclear conditions for any return.

Divisions have emerged within the government. First Secretary of State Louise Haigh told broadcasters that rejoin was 'back on the table', suggesting Cabinet support. Other Cabinet colleagues, however, say there is 'no appetite' for rejoining the EU. Red Wall MPs have also warned Burnham about freedom of movement concerns. Reform UK MP Sarah Pochin cautioned that the Prime Minister could 'take us back into the EU without the will of the British people behind him'.

Senior Downing Street officials have been reaching out to thinktanks and pollsters to test public support for UK rejoining the EU. Aides to Burnham have been talking to EU experts about how the public would view a promise to rejoin as momentum builds behind including such a pledge in the next Labour manifesto. Former Labour culture secretary Sir Ben Bradshaw has defended Burnham, arguing he is simply 'trying to start a debate' on the issue.

Andy Burnham reopens debate on Britain rejoining the EU
Image: Evening Standard

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In this story: Andy Burnham · Emmanuel Macron · Pedro Sánchez · Louise Haigh · European Union · Labour Party · United Kingdom

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