Headline: Andy Burnham Says Rejoining EU Is Among Options for Britain’s Future Relationship

Date: 30 September 2026

Tags: UK Politics, Brexit, European Union, Labour

Summary:

• Prime Minister Andy Burnham said rejoining the European Union is among options the government could examine.

• Burnham said the existing Brexit settlement had caused “more harm than good” and Britain should consider its long-term relationship.

• Options mentioned include maintaining current arrangements, joining a customs union, entering the single market or pursuing full EU membership.

• Burnham said each option should be assessed for feasibility and its potential advantages and disadvantages.

• His position goes beyond Labour’s 2024 manifesto, which ruled out rejoining the EU, single market or customs union.

• Burnham previously promised during the Makerfield by-election not to re-run Brexit arguments or propose EU membership.

• The government plans to discuss closer relations with EU leaders at a rescheduled summit later this year.

• French President Emmanuel Macron and Spanish President Pedro Sanchez said they would welcome Britain seeking to rejoin.

• Conservatives and Reform UK criticised Burnham’s approach, while Liberal Democrats urged faster negotiations for closer economic integration.

• Burnham said he wants to establish consensus on Britain’s future European relationship and clarify its direction for the next decade.

Why this matters: Burnham is considering options previously excluded by Labour, potentially reopening debate over Britain’s post-Brexit relationship with Europe.

What’s next: The government is expected to examine the options ahead of its EU summit later this year.