# Burnham reopens debate on closer EU ties despite Labour’s referendum pledge

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/opening-the-eu-debate-again-is-clearly-a-political-minefield-but-we-have-to-do-it-simon-jenkins/
- Published: 2026-10-30T06:00:47+00:00
- Updated: 2026-10-30T07:02:18+00:00
- Original publisher: The Guardian (publisher lean: Left)
- Original article: https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2026/oct/30/brexit-eu-debate-again-political-minefield-andy-burnham
- Topics: Business, Europe, UK, World

## Key points

- Burnham has reopened debate on Britain’s relationship with the EU.
- Brexit’s estimated economic cost is 6–8% of GDP.
- Support for rejoining falls when giving up opt-outs is included.

## Summary

Andy Burnham has reopened debate about Britain’s future relationship with the EU, despite the political risks. The article argues that Brexit continues to harm the economy and that discussing alternatives is urgent, while stressing that Labour has promised to honour the referendum result during this parliament.

The article says nearly 60% of people now regard Brexit as a mistake, while an estimated economic cost is 6–8% of GDP. Support for rejoining falls from 55% to 35% if it means giving up the UK’s previous opt-outs, such as staying outside the euro and Schengen. Possible alternatives include closer economic ties, EFTA membership or a customs union, though public and EU support for particular arrangements remains uncertain.

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Summarised by TalkFuse (https://talkfuse.com/). Quote the original publisher for the reporting and link this page for the summary and discussion.