David Cameron warns Andy Burnham not to seek to rejoin the EU and tells PM that Brexit ‘has nothing to do with UK’s economic woes’

David Cameron has urged Andy Burnham and the Prime Minister not to pursue UK membership of the EU or its customs union, arguing that reopening the debate could damage efforts to secure a stronger partnership with Europe. Cameron said Britain should remain outside the bloc while seeking to be a close partner, and disputed claims that Brexit is responsible for the country’s current economic problems.

Burnham is due to meet European leaders in Dublin before a Brussels summit where the Prime Minister is expected to advance agreements on food and drink, emissions trading and a youth experience scheme. Cameron said the UK’s economic difficulties stem instead from overspending, borrowing, high taxes, regulation and working-age welfare costs. He acknowledged his disappointment at the 2016 referendum result but said he believed in democracy.