Brexit reversal on the table 10 years on from referendum
UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has suggested that a future referendum on rejoining the European Union could be considered. While ruling out an immediate vote, he expressed dissatisfaction with the current post-Brexit relationship.
Why it matters
The potential for a reversal of Brexit represents a significant shift in British political discourse and could have major implications for the UK's economic and diplomatic future.
U.K. Prime Minister Andy Burnham suggested this week that British voters could be given the chance to reverse Brexit, the country's highly contentious departure from the European Union a decade ago.
Burnham, who became prime minister over the summer, told the BBC on Wednesday it was "possible" a referendum on rejoining the EU could be included in a future election manifesto.
A U.K. general election is not currently expected before 2029. Prime ministers are able to trigger an early snap election with the backing of parliament, but Burnham — who replaced predecessor Keir Starmer without a public vote — has ruled out such a move.
In his interview with the BBC, the prime minister said a referendum "wouldn't be the right thing to do right now," but added that the U.K. must "consider the options" for its relationship with the EU, arguing that "where we are isn't good enough."
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in