Andy Burnham is backing closer ties between the UK and the European Union as the prime minister opens a conversation about the possibility of the country rejoining the bloc.
The discussion places the question of the UK’s future relationship with the EU back into political focus. Burnham wants the country to move closer to the EU, although the prospects of achieving that are expected to involve significant difficulty.
Government insiders have suggested that the path ahead will not be smooth. The material available does not set out any specific proposals, timetable or formal policy for rejoining the European Union.
The latest position is therefore the opening of a political conversation rather than a confirmed decision to seek membership again. Further developments will depend on how the debate progresses and whether more detailed plans are brought forward.
