Andy Burnham snubs Brexit with bombshell new statement

Andy Burnham said Britain has “lost more than we’ve gained” since Brexit, arguing that the Conservatives secured a harsher departure from the EU than voters expected and damaged relations with European leaders. His comments defend closer ties with Brussels and are likely to renew debate over the UK’s future relationship with the bloc.

Burnham is preparing to sign a food and farming agreement that would involve following hundreds of EU agricultural rules. He says it could cut costs and red tape for exporters and add up to 0.4% to GDP, while critics warn it could limit UK control over rules. The anti-rejoin group Stay Out says EU membership would cost £39.3 billion a year; Burnham is expected to speak at the Mansion House before travelling to Brussels.