Electoral reform and reversing Brexit: they’re more connected than you might think
Labour’s emerging leadership contest is reopening the EU debate. But if we want to rejoin, Britain needs a more European voting system first
TL;DR
- Labour's leadership contest is reviving discussions about the UK rejoining the EU.
- Some Labour figures, like Wes Streeting, advocate for full re-entry, while others, like Andy Burnham, are more cautious.
- The article suggests that the UK must adopt a more European voting system (proportional representation) before it can effectively negotiate rejoining the EU.
- The current first-past-the-post system is criticized for creating instability and allowing for extremist parties to gain influence.
- Electoral reform is popular among the public and Labour voters, and is seen as a way to achieve political consensus and stability.
- Rejoining the EU may require the UK to adopt the Euro and accept freedom of movement, which are significant hurdles.
- The EU may be more receptive to the UK rejoining if there is a clear and stable consensus for it within Britain.