Scottish Labour leader risks defying Burnham as he backs rejoining the EU – amid Cabinet tensions over cosying up to Brussels

Scottish Labour leader Michael Marra has called for the UK to rejoin the European Union, describing it as a long-term objective for the whole country. His stance goes beyond current UK Labour and Government policy, and comes as ministers prepare for talks with Brussels amid internal debate over how close the UK should move towards the bloc.

Marra said rejoining would raise serious questions, including about currency and borders, but argued those challenges were not insurmountable. He said closer European ties could help Scottish businesses, investment, jobs, prices and public services. The UK Government is expected to discuss a reset at a summit on 20 November, potentially involving payments to the EU, a youth mobility scheme and alignment with some EU rules in exchange for improved trade terms.