British Prime Minister Burnham does not rule out rejoining the EU; debate on leaving the EU reignites

[London Current Affairs] British Prime Minister Burnham has indicated that he does not rule out rejoining the European Union (EU), reigniting the debate over the UK's withdrawal from the EU. The withdrawal was achieved in 2020 after a debate that divided national opinion, but the Prime Minister's remarks have given momentum to those who want to return to the country, and speculation is emerging that a referendum may be held again in the future.

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In a speech at the ruling Labor Party's conference on September 29, Mr. Burnham criticized the withdrawal, saying it would "do more harm than good" and announced his policy to rebuild strong relations with the EU. On the next day's BBC program, when asked if he wanted to rejoin the group, he answered, ``I would like to consider my options.'' Furthermore, he stated that there is a possibility that a new referendum on whether to leave should be added to the manifesto for the next general election.

Before he took office as prime minister in July, Burnham had advocated the need for re-memberment. Although he has avoided making explicit statements since taking office, his statements are more pro-EU than his predecessor, Starmer. Various newspapers have reported that ``prospects for a second referendum are growing'' (The Times) and ``The Prime Minister opens the door to rejoining the EU'' (The Guardian), and some supporters of reversion are immediately launching a campaign to hold a referendum.

Burnham has said that he would like to discuss "different options" for relations with the EU at a summit meeting with the EU scheduled for later this year, and ask the public about their pros and cons. Options seem to include (1) maintaining the current status of withdrawal, (2) joining the customs union, (3) participating in the single market, and (4) fully returning as a member state. It is also possible that Canada and the EU may refer to the "associate member state" concept being explored by the EU.

There is a growing public opinion in the UK that ``leaving the UK was a mistake'' due to the economic slowdown and other reasons. The government is expected to monitor public opinion trends and move forward with EU policy, with a view to returning to the EU or reviewing the withdrawal agreement.

However, the right-wing Reform UK party, whose party is headed by Farage, who led the withdrawal campaign, maintains high approval ratings, and anti-EU forces have not lost any momentum. A major hurdle for those who want to return to the EU is whether the EU will accept rejoining.