UK's Burnham floats going ‘all the way’ and rejoining the EU

Live updates

1. 2d ago

   UK Prime Minister Burnham Pushes to Reopen EU Relationship

   Prime Minister Andy Burnham is advancing plans to reshape the United Kingdom's ties with the European Union, raising the possibility of rejoining the bloc. Burnham argues that the current Brexit settlement caused more harm than good and plans to use an upcoming summit as an initial step toward closer integration. New polling indicates that half of the British public supports rejoining the European Union, while members of the European Parliament have expressed willingness to welcome the UK back to correct past divisions.

   Why it matters

   The push to revisit the Brexit settlement comes as defense concerns and economic competition drive fresh interest in continental alignment. Think tanks and policymakers are re-evaluating the limits of British sovereignty amid ongoing geopolitical crises. This marks a sharp pivot in national debate, reviving discussions on European integration that had long remained dormant following the initial withdrawal.

   What is confirmed

   • Prime Minister Andy Burnham is exploring options to reshape the UK's relationship with the European Union, including the possibility of rejoining the bloc.
   • Burnham stated that the current Brexit settlement caused more harm than good.
   • Members of European Parliament from across the political spectrum are holding the door open for Britain to rejoin the union.
   • Polling indicates that half of the UK population would support rejoining the EU.
   • The Institute for Public Policy Research published reports laying out an approach for the UK to rejoin the European Union.

   Still unconfirmed

   • Reopening the Brexit issue will unleash toxic divisiveness and renewed culture wars, according to critics of the plan.

   What to watch next

   • The government summit scheduled for next month regarding closer ties with the European Union.
   • Further legislative or policy developments resulting from the Institute for Public Policy Research blueprint.
   Sources used for this update (6)

   1. www.yahoo.com — Yahoo
   2. www.theguardian.com — Brexit’s back – but are British voters ready to contemplate a reversal?
   3. www.theguardian.com — Britain cannot deal effectively with geopolitical crises ...
   4. www.irinsider.org — After 6 Years of Brexit, Why is the UK Thinking of Going Back ...
   5. www.newstatesman.com — Andy Burnham now has a blueprint to rejoin the EU
   6. euobserver.com — MEPs open arms to a UK ‘Rejoin’ to ‘correct’ Brexit mistake
   confidence 100%
2. 5d ago

   PM Andy Burnham calls for EU reset and considers rejoining the bloc

   Prime Minister Andy Burnham is exploring options to reshape the UK's relationship with the European Union, including the possibility of rejoining the bloc. Burnham told the BBC that the current Brexit settlement caused "more harm than good" and has promised a "serious dialogue" regarding the UK's future place in Europe. He told MPs in the Commons that ignoring the chance to seek a new deal would be a "dereliction of duty." The government intends to use a summit next month as a first step toward closer ties.

   Why it matters

   The UK remains outside the EU following the 2016 referendum. This shift in government stance follows a call for debate on the relationship during the Labour Party's annual conference. Tensions over trade and immigration remain central to the ongoing negotiations.

   What is confirmed

   • Prime Minister Andy Burnham suggested rejoining the EU is an option the government could examine.
   • Burnham described the current Brexit settlement as having caused "more harm than good".
   • A summit scheduled for next month is intended as a first step toward closer ties with the EU.
   • Burnham told MPs that failing to seek a new deal with the EU would be a "dereliction of duty".
   • The Prime Minister has promised a "serious dialogue" over the UK's future place in Europe.

   Still unconfirmed

   • John Redwood claims Burnham wants to reopen the 2016 Brexit vote.

   What to watch next

   • The outcomes of the EU reset summit next month.
   • Official government confirmation of whether rejoining the EU is a formal policy option.
   • The public response to Burnham's promise that the public will be the "boss" over the UK's EU relationship.
   Sources used for this update (8)

   1. www.theguardian.com — Andy Burnham promises ‘serious dialogue’ over UK’s ...
   2. www.independent.co.uk — Andy Burnham will be the man to take Britain back into the EU ...
   3. uk.news.yahoo.com — Burnham vows the public will be the ‘boss’ over the UK’s ...
   4. www.theguardian.com — Burnham: not pursuing better EU deal would be ‘dereliction of ...
   5. johnredwoodsdiary.com — My Express article on the EU and Mr Burnham – John Redwood's Diary
   6. cde.news — Burnham considering going ‘all the way’ in closer ...
   7. www.europesays.com — Andy Burnham promises ‘serious dialogue’ over UK’s ...
   8. eastflank.eu — Will the UK rejoin the EU? Andy Burnham’s plan has two goals ...
   confidence 90%
3. 8d ago

   UK's Burnham floats rejoining the EU

   UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has suggested the possibility of the UK rejoining the European Union, which has sparked discussion about the potential economic and political implications. This comes as Burnham prepares for an upcoming EU summit focused on deepening ties. The idea has received mixed reactions, with some warning it could mean giving away more of the UK's money, fish, and powers.

   Why it matters

   The UK's relationship with the EU has been a contentious issue since the Brexit referendum in 2016. The country's departure from the EU has had significant economic and political implications. Burnham's suggestion has raised questions about the potential benefits and drawbacks of rejoining the EU.

   What is confirmed

   • The United Kingdom comprises England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
   • The UK has a population of over 69 million.
   • The UK's departure from the EU has had significant economic and political implications.

   Still unconfirmed

   • Andy Burnham floated going 'all the way' and rejoining the EU.

   What to watch next

   • The outcome of the upcoming EU summit
   • The UK government's official response to Burnham's suggestion
   • The reaction of other EU member states to the idea of the UK rejoining
   Sources used for this update (8)

   1. www.gov.uk — Welcome to GOV.UK
   2. www.bbc.co.uk — UK | Latest News & Updates | BBC News
   3. ontheworldmap.com — UK Map | Discover United Kingdom with Detailed Maps | Great...
   4. en.wikipedia.org — United Kingdom - Wikipedia
   5. en.wikipedia.org — Countries of the United Kingdom - Wikipedia
   6. inews.co.uk — 10 ways a Brexit U-turn could impact your money
   7. labourlist.org — Letters to the Editor – week ending 11th October 2026 - LabourList
   8. www.express.co.uk — Andy Burham's Brexit reset means giving away more of our money, fish and powers | Politics | News | Expre....
   confidence 80%
4. 11d ago

   German Chancellor Pledges Support as Burnham Pursues EU Reset

   Prime Minister Andy Burnham met with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Berlin to discuss defence, security, and a reset of relations with Brussels. Merz pledged to do everything possible to bring the United Kingdom back to Europe, following French encouragement for Burnham to reverse Brexit completely. Burnham insists that economic growth stems from co-operation as he prepares for a looming European Union summit focusing on deepening ties. Meanwhile, the two main British political parties fight for the middle ground using housing and nostalgia.

   Why it matters

   The push to deepen relations comes as the UK faces controversial Made in Europe rules that threaten domestic exports. Burnham previously tasked ministers with assessing the feasibility of rejoining the EU and stated that Brexit has caused more harm than good. European member states are watching London's next moves closely while domestic political battles centre heavily on housing and nostalgia.

   What is confirmed

   • Prime Minister Andy Burnham met with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Berlin for talks covering defence, security, and EU relations.
   • Chancellor Friedrich Merz pledged to do anything possible to bring the UK back to Europe during his meeting with Burnham.
   • Andy Burnham highlighted an upcoming EU summit on deepening relations and stated that growth comes from co-operation.
   • Housing and nostalgia are key avenues being exploited by the two big parties battling for power in the middle ground of British politics.

   Still unconfirmed

   • A French minister urged Andy Burnham to go all the way on reversing Brexit.
   • Controversial Made in Europe rules threaten to hit UK exports.

   What to watch next

   • The upcoming EU summit on deepening relations and its impact on UK exports.
   • Further ministerial assessments regarding the feasibility of rejoining the EU.
   Sources used for this update (3)

   1. www.rte.ie — Housing and nostalgia key in battle for Britain's centre
   2. www.dailymail.com — French minister urges Burnham to go 'all the way' on reversing Brexit - as PM heads to Germany for talks ....
   3. socialistworker.co.uk — The EU’s true colours don’t shine in blue and gold—they bleed red - Socialist Worker
   confidence 90%
5. 13d ago

   UK's Burnham considers rejoining EU, citing Brexit harm

   UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham is examining options for rejoining the EU, stating Brexit has done "more harm than good". He has tasked ministers with assessing feasibility. A referendum on rejoining could be included in a future election manifesto. The EU is waiting to see London's next move, with some member states expressing support.

   Why it matters

   This development has significant implications for UK-EU relations and British politics. Brexit has been a contentious issue since the 2016 referendum. The UK's departure from the EU has had far-reaching economic, social, and political consequences. Rejoining would require substantial negotiations and potentially a public vote.

   What is confirmed

   • 49% of Britons back EU reaccession
   • Brexit has done more harm than good, according to UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham
   • The EU is waiting to see what London wants next

   Still unconfirmed

   • A referendum on rejoining the EU could be included in a future election manifesto

   What to watch next

   • The Labour Party's conference stance on EU rejoining
   • The UK government's formal proposal for rejoining the EU, if any
   • Public opinion polls on EU reaccession in the coming weeks
   Sources used for this update (4)

   1. www.rte.ie — Burnham has said the unsayable on Brexit, so what ... - RTÉ
   2. bylinetimes.com — ‘Why Andy Burnham Will Ultimately Back Rejoining the EU’
   3. www.independent.co.uk — Could the UK rejoin the EU — and how would it work?
   4. www.chosun.com — 49% Back UK's EU Reaccession as Burnham Hints Return
   confidence 75%
6. 15d ago

   UK's Burnham floats rejoining EU, reversing Brexit

   UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham is considering reversing Brexit and rejoining the EU, stating that Brexit has done "more harm than good". He has tasked ministers to examine the feasibility of various options, including rejoining the EU. A referendum on rejoining the EU could be included in a future election manifesto. The EU is waiting to see what London wants next, with some member states expressing support for the prospect.

   Why it matters

   The UK's relationship with the EU has been a contentious issue since the Brexit referendum in 2016. Burnham's comments suggest a significant shift in the UK's stance, and have sparked debate about the potential consequences of rejoining the EU. The EU has been cautious in its response, with some member states expressing support for the prospect while others wait to see what actions the UK will take.

   What is confirmed

   • UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham is evaluating the UK's relationship with the European Union, including the possibility of rejoining the bloc.
   • Burnham stated that Brexit has done "more harm than good".
   • A referendum on rejoining the EU could be included in a future election manifesto.
   • France, Spain, and Germany have expressed support for the prospect of the UK rejoining the EU.
   • The EU is waiting to see what actions the UK will take before making any decisions.

   Still unconfirmed

   • Nigel Farage claims the move will benefit the Reform party.

   What to watch next

   • The UK government's formal proposal for its future relationship with the EU
   • The EU's response to the UK's proposal
   • The outcome of the next general election and its impact on the UK's EU policy
   Sources used for this update (9)

   1. www.cnbc.com — Brexit reversal on the table 10 years on from referendum - CNBC
   2. www.bbc.co.uk — Why are these endangered moths swarming Australia’s east coast? - BBC News
   3. www.theguardian.com — Could the UK really rejoin the EU? | World news | The Guardian
   4. www.koreatimes.co.kr — Breturn? Wary EU waits for actions, not words from UK
   5. www.straitstimes.com — Breturn? Wary EU waits for actions, not words from UK
   6. www.thelocal.com — 'We won't change approach': EU wants actions from UK, rather than words
   7. www.bbc.co.uk — Watch: Why has UK diesel price hit an all time high? - BBC
   8. newswav.com — Burnham wants to change Britain’s voting system. What would that mean for Labour? - Newswav
   9. euobserver.com — Why ‘Made in Europe’ could push Burnham’s UK back into the EU ...
   confidence 80%
7. 17d ago

   Prime Minister Andy Burnham weighs rejoining the EU

   Prime Minister Andy Burnham is evaluating the UK's relationship with the European Union, including the possibility of rejoining the bloc. Burnham stated that Brexit has done "more harm than good" and has tasked ministers to examine the pros, cons, and feasibility of various options, ranging from maintaining the status quo to going "all the way." Number 10 is currently gathering evidence on public support for a return to the EU. France, Spain, and Germany have expressed support for the prospect, while Nigel Farage claims the move will benefit the Reform party.

   Why it matters

   This shift occurs ten years after the UK left the European Union. A formal assessment of the relationship is planned before the next UK-EU summit. The move signals a potential reversal of the Brexit settlement.

   What is confirmed

   • Prime Minister Andy Burnham said Brexit has done "more harm than good".
   • Burnham is considering a range of options for the UK-EU relationship, including rejoining the bloc.
   • Number 10 is gathering evidence on public support for rejoining the EU.
   • France and Spain welcome the idea of the UK rejoining the EU.
   • Germany stated it will do everything possible to get Britain back into the EU.
   • French President Emmanuel Macron responded to the proposal by saying "Welcome back."

   Still unconfirmed

   • Nigel Farage claims the reopening of the Brexit debate is the biggest boost of his career.
   • Nigel Farage claims reigniting a Brexit vote will open the door to Reform.
   • Andy Burnham wants to see the UK rejoin the EU in his lifetime.

   What to watch next

   • The results of the Number 10 evidence gathering on public support for rejoining.
   • The findings of the ministerial assessment on the pros and cons of EU membership.
   • Outcomes of the next UK-EU summit.
   Sources used for this update (19)

   1. www.dailymail.com — Andy Burnham: Latest news, breaking stories and comment
   2. Reuters — Burnham says Britain should weigh EU options, including rejoining bloc
   3. The Guardian — No 10 gathering evidence on public support for rejoining the EU
   4. dw.com — France, Spain welcome idea of UK rejoining EU
   5. www.theguardian.com — Andy Burnham wants to review the UK’s relationship with the EU. What are the options?
   6. The Guardian — Burnham’s reopening of Brexit debate is ‘biggest boost in my career’, says Farage
   7. BBC — Farage claims PM reigniting Brexit vote will 'open door to Reform'
   8. The Telegraph — Germany: We’ll do everything we can to get Britain back into EU
   9. Euronews.com — UK's Burnham floats going ‘all the way’ and rejoining the EU
   10. www.theguardian.com — Andy Burnham: UK could ‘go all the way’ by rejoining EU
   11. www.euronews.com — Andy Burnham is rethinking the UK’s ties with the EU. What are his options?
   12. www.euronews.com — UK's Burnham floats going ‘all the way’ and rejoining the EU
   confidence 100%