Rachel Reeves calls for UK to rejoin EU: ‘Brexit has made us poorer, weaker and less secure’
Former chancellor Rachel Reeves has said she believes Britain’s future lies in the European Union, arguing Brexit has left the UK “poorer, weaker and less secure”. Her support for reopening talks with Brussels backs Andy Burnham’s call for an honest debate and marks a prominent Labour voice advocating rejoining, despite the government’s pledge not to reverse Brexit.
Reeves said supporters of re-entry must set out its practical benefits and get the next steps right. Ahead of the UK-EU summit on 20 November, she identified confirmation of a youth mobility scheme and progress towards joining the SAFE defence partnership as priorities. An Ipsos poll cited in the article found 56 per cent would vote to rejoin, up four points since May, while 30 per cent would vote to stay out; among likely referendum voters, the figures were 63 per cent and 34 per cent.
In short
- Rachel Reeves says Britain’s future lies in the EU.
- She backs debate on rejoining and closer ties with Brussels.
- Poll finds 56 per cent would vote to rejoin.
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The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Rejoining the EU could reduce trade barriers, improve economic cooperation and give the UK a stronger voice in decisions affecting its security and prosperity. Supporters argue that Brexit has weakened Britain and that a practical, clearly explained route back—built around public consent and achievable steps—could deliver lasting benefits.
The case against
Rejoining could require difficult compromises over the terms of membership, including accepting shared rules and obligations, while reopening the question risks renewed political division and uncertainty for businesses. Those who favour staying out may argue that the UK can pursue cooperation with Europe on specific issues, such as defence and youth mobility, while retaining greater control over its laws and policies.
Explained simply
The UK left the European Union in 2020, following the 2016 referendum, and now sets many of its own rules on trade, migration and law. The change reshaped the UK’s relationship with its closest trading partners and affected cooperation on issues including security and travel.
Rachel Reeves is a senior Labour politician and former chancellor; Andy Burnham is the mayor of Greater Manchester. Labour’s government has said it will not reverse Brexit, while some politicians argue for closer ties with the EU or eventual membership. Any move towards rejoining would involve negotiations with EU member states and a decision by voters.