Andy Burnham’s statement this week that Brexit had done the UK “more harm than good” and his willingness to consider closer relations with the EU has put the issue back on the table. Is Brexit now likely to turn into a new Bromance?
Burnham tried to chose his world carefully, but must have known what he was doing. He said that in terms of the current relationship “where we are isn’t good enough”. The new prime minister also refused to rule out the possibility of some kind of second vote on relations with the EU appearing as a proposal in a future Labour general election manifesto.
The course of any kind of reversal will, however, be both difficult and slow. Britain’s voters remain divided: Reform UK’s deputy leader, Richard Tice, accused Burnham “of trying to sneak us back into Brussels via the back door.” Much more of this is to come, along with the rerun of debates on the merits and demerits of membership of the customs union and single market, the impact on immigration and on the wider economy.
Nor can an unconditional renewed embrace of the UK by the EU be expected . The prodigal country will need to pay the price of a return ticket. While Burnham’s advances got a generally warm response, European leaders underlined that Britain cannot pick and chose.
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French president Emmanuel Macron responded with a “welcome back”. But he added, pointedly: “You cannot choose between the freedoms of the union, nor can you decide to take what suits you and leave the rest.” It is not quite a case of all or nothing for the UK’s future relationship, but – for example – membership of the customs union requires alignment with EU trade policy and tariffs. Where are the UK’s red lines now set?
Burnham’s first date with the EU will be at a summit next month. Contentious issues, such as how the UK would be treated in a new EU “made in Europe” policy fall to be discussed. As we know from the lengthy Brexit negotiations, the vibes are important, but when it comes down to dealing with the EU, it is all about the detail.
