UK Prime Minister Burnham proposes EU consensus on closer ties

Prime Minister Andy Burnham told delegates at the Labour Party conference that he will use a November summit with the European Union to present options for Britain’s long-term relationship with its nearest trading partner. He said the aim is to find a consensus on a framework that could improve growth and prosperity without rejoining the bloc fully.

Burnham noted that a recent YouGov poll found 55% of respondents favour re-entry to the EU, while 59% support closer ties that stop short of full membership, such as participation in the single market or customs union. The EU has expressed openness to deeper cooperation on security and defence, though it has not detailed specific objectives for the summit.

Opposition figures criticised the proposal. Richard Tice, deputy leader of Reform UK, accused Burnham of attempting to reverse the 2016 referendum result and warned his party would challenge the move.

The push for stronger EU links comes amid broader geopolitical shifts, including discussions on European defence spending and trade policies influenced by the United States.