Prime Minister Burnham Threatens Brexit Gains, Floats Rejoining EU Against Will of British People
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Prime Minister Andy Burnham has alarmed Brexit supporters by suggesting his government may undermine the hard-won independence from the EU, considering options that include a customs union or even full EU membership.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham told Labour Party members at its annual conference in Liverpool that the Conservative-led Brexit settlement has caused what he claims are significant problems, and revealed that his government will outline possible long-term arrangements with the European Union at a UK-EU summit later this year. In a BBC interview, Burnham openly discussed the possibility of surrendering UK sovereignty by considering a customs union, re-entering the single market, or even pursuing full EU membership—moves that would reverse the will of the British people as expressed in the Brexit referendum. He added that each option would be weighed for feasibility and impact, raising concerns among those who value national independence.
Labour leader Keir Starmer has previously ruled out rejoining the EU single market or customs union before the next general election, a stance Burnham said would remain in place until after the vote. The Conservative opposition responded forcefully, with Deputy Leader Alex Burghart rightly questioning the Prime Minister’s wavering and inconsistent approach to Brexit, warning against betraying the public’s decision.