Macron calls Brexit ‘biggest lie in 30 years’ and takes aim at Britain’s immigration and economic woes – as Andy Burnham floats idea of rejoining EU
Emmanuel Macron called Brexit “the biggest lie of the last 30 years”, arguing that promises of greater prosperity and trade and reduced immigration had not been fulfilled. His remarks in Madrid came as Andy Burnham said the UK should consider a range of future relationships with the EU, including rejoining; Macron and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez welcomed that possibility.
Burnham said the UK could remain as it is, consider a customs union or single-market arrangement, or rejoin the bloc, weighing what was achievable and the pros and cons. His comments mark a shift from May, when he said he was not proposing that the UK consider rejoining, and drew criticism from Scottish Labour leader Michael Marra. Labour’s 2024 manifesto ruled out a customs union, returning to the single market and restoring freedom of movement.
- Macron said Brexit failed to deliver on key promises.
- Burnham wants Britain to assess several options for EU ties.
- Rejoining would be a shift from Burnham’s earlier position.