Could the UK really rejoin the EU?
The big question facing Andy Burnham is not whether Brexit has harmed Britain, but if a rapidly changing Europe will keep the door open if the UK decides it wants back in
TL;DR
- Andy Burnham has broken a taboo in the Labour party by stating Brexit has done "more harm than good".
- This suggests a potential U-turn on previous Labour policy, which focused on improving the existing Brexit deal.
- Rejoining the EU, the single market, or a customs union are now being considered as future options for the UK's relationship with Europe.
- Economic evidence suggests Brexit has already stunted the British economy, with estimates ranging from 6% to 8% of GDP damage.
- Geopolitical events and EU initiatives like 'Made in Europe' are influencing the UK's relationship with the bloc, potentially creating new barriers for non-members.
- The UK's bargaining power outside the EU is limited, and attempts at selective market access have been rebuffed.
- Public opinion polling suggests significant support for rejoining the EU if that is Burnham's preference.