UK Prime Minister Burnham Floats Rejoining EU; Macron Says "Welcome Back"

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham put the idea of Britain rejoining the European Union on the table, breaking a taboo for a UK prime minister.

French President Emmanuel Macron responded in English with "Welcome back," speaking alongside Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez. Sanchez added that Spain would open its arms to a UK reunion. Burnham confirmed he would discuss the prospect at an upcoming summit with EU leaders. He stated that rejoining the EU was among the potential answers to the question of Britain's future relationship with Europe.

Burnham also said Britain should consider options for its future relationship with the EU, including rejoining the bloc, doubling down on his message that Brexit had done more harm than good. Macron described the prospect of Britain returning to the EU as excellent news and a good decision. Sanchez and Macron expressed enthusiasm for Britain rejoining the EU and agreed Europe must strengthen its trade defenses against China.

They also called for greater flexibility in finding additional resources for the bloc ahead of EU budget negotiations in October. Spain and France are concerned that pressure from major net contributors to the EU budget to cut available funds would worsen inequality and reduce funds for farmers. Officials caution that unwinding Brexit will involve costs and sacrifices that neither side may want to bear. Burnham campaigned on Tuesday at his Labour Party’s annual conference.