British Prime Minister Andy Burnham stated on Wednesday that the UK should reassess its long-term relationship with the European Union. Options include maintaining the current status quo, joining a customs union, rejoining the single market, or even rejoining the EU. He boldly declared that Brexit has caused more harm than good.
In an interview on BBC Radio 4’s “Today” program, Burnham expressed his desire for clarity on the future direction of the UK’s relationship with the EU over the next 10 years. When asked about the possibility of rejoining the EU, he mentioned the need to thoroughly explore various options.
“We can maintain the status quo. If people believe the current situation is what should be preserved, then that is certainly an option,” Burnham said. He further mentioned considering proposals made by former Chancellor George Osborne on joining a customs union, the Liberal Democrats’ position on rejoining the single market, or going all the way to rejoin the EU.
Burnham emphasized the need to consider these options carefully, evaluating which ones are feasible and weighing their respective advantages and disadvantages. At the Labour Party conference on Tuesday, he also highlighted how Brexit has led to a loss of control in immigration and the economy, stating that the current UK-EU relationship is not satisfactory.
Back in May, while still serving as Mayor of Greater Manchester, Burnham had said, “I am not proposing that the UK considers rejoining the EU. I respect the decision made in the referendum.” Though he believed Brexit had caused harm, he also warned against reopening those debates, as prolonged arguments would lead the UK into further political divisions.
Burnham has previously expressed his hope to see the UK rejoin the EU in his lifetime. However, in his recent BBC interview, he emphasized the need to explore various options first, acknowledging that his previous stance may not still hold true. The Labour Party’s 2024 election manifesto advocates for the UK to remain outside the EU, promising to make Brexit arrangements work smoothly while enhancing trade and security cooperation with the EU, ruling out a return to the single market, customs union, and free movement of people.
Burnham also mentioned that he will present different proposals for the UK’s long-term relationship with the EU at the November UK-EU summit, emphasizing that the UK cannot afford another decade of uncertainty around this issue.