Prime Minister Andy Burnham has reopened debate about the UK’s relationship with the EU, saying Britain could consider options ranging from closer economic ties to full membership. He also declined to rule out another referendum, despite acknowledging that referendums can divide families and communities, prompting criticism from political opponents and Labour MPs in Leave-supporting areas.

Burnham said he wanted to discuss Europe as part of a long-term plan for the country, arguing Britain was not functioning as it should. French President Emmanuel Macron and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez welcomed the prospect of closer ties, while Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch and other critics argued that rejoining would not address Britain’s domestic problems and could involve less favourable terms. The article notes that Makerfield voted 65 per cent to Leave in 2016 and cites concerns that rejoining could entail changes involving the pound, the UK’s budget rebate and Schengen membership.