Andy Burnham has opened the door to the UK rejoining the EU, saying Britain could “go all the way” to full membership. The prime minister’s comments mark a significant shift in Labour’s post-Brexit stance and have sparked intense debate about Britain’s future relationship with Brussels.
Andy Burnham’s EU Rejoining Comments: A Major Shift
In a series of interviews following his emotional Labour conference speech, Burnham outlined a spectrum of options for the UK’s future with the EU. He stated that Brexit had caused “more harm than good” and that the government could keep current arrangements, seek a customs union, return to the single market, or “go all the way” to full EU membership. Speaking to the BBC, he emphasised that ministers would examine “what is doable” and the “pros and cons” of each option.
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Asked directly whether he wanted the UK to rejoin the bloc, Burnham told Radio 4’s Today programme he wanted to “look at the options.” He added: “We could stay as we are. That’s definitely an option, if people think this is the right place to stay. We could look at what George Osborne has said about a customs union, we could look at what the Liberal Democrats said at their conference about the single market or we could go all the way.”
What Are the Options for UK-EU Relations?
The prime minister’s remarks suggest a willingness to reconsider Labour’s post-Brexit red lines. During the 2024 election, Labour’s manifesto explicitly ruled out returning to the EU single market or customs union, as well as restoring freedom of movement. Now, Burnham appears to be reopening that debate.
A customs union would bring Britain much closer to the EU on trade in goods, eliminating tariffs and reducing border checks. Single market membership would go further, requiring alignment with EU regulations and potentially free movement of people. Full EU membership would mean rejoining the bloc entirely, including all rights and obligations.
Comparison of UK-EU Relationship Options
| Option | Trade Access | Freedom of Movement | Regulatory Alignment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Current Arrangements (TCA) | Limited, tariffs on some goods | No | Minimal |
| Customs Union | No tariffs on goods | No | Some |
| Single Market | Full access for goods & services | Yes (likely) | High |
| Full EU Membership | Full access | Yes | Full |
Implications for Business and Trade
For UK businesses, any move towards closer EU ties could reduce red tape and lower costs. A customs union would simplify export procedures for goods, while single market membership would benefit services and allow easier movement of workers. However, each option comes with trade-offs, including loss of regulatory autonomy and potential political backlash.
Burnham’s comments have been interpreted as a signal that Labour is willing to prioritise economic pragmatism over ideological purity. The prime minister’s focus on “what is doable” suggests a gradual, evidence-based approach rather than a sudden reversal.
Key Takeaways
- Andy Burnham has opened the door to the UK rejoining the EU, including full membership.
- Options range from current arrangements to customs union, single market, or full EU membership.
- Labour’s 2024 manifesto ruled out single market and customs union, but Burnham is reconsidering.
- Closer EU ties could reduce trade barriers but may require regulatory alignment and free movement.
- The government will assess “pros and cons” of each option before deciding.
FAQ
What did Andy Burnham say about the UK rejoining the EU?
Andy Burnham said the UK could “go all the way” and rejoin the EU, and that Brexit had caused “more harm than good.” He outlined options including staying as is, a customs union, single market membership, or full EU membership.
What is a customs union with the EU?
A customs union is an agreement where member countries apply a common external tariff and allow free trade in goods among themselves. For the UK, joining a customs union with the EU would eliminate tariffs on goods but would not include services or freedom of movement.
How would rejoining the EU affect UK businesses?
Rejoining the EU or joining the single market would reduce trade barriers, lower costs, and simplify regulations for UK businesses. However, it would also mean aligning with EU rules and potentially accepting freedom of movement.
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