UK could rejoin EU after 2029 election, Prime Minister Andy Burnham says

The UK prime minister outlined three main options that he plans to discuss at the UK-EU summit later this year.

The first scenario would preserve the current relationship. The second would see the UK return to the European Union's single market. The third option would involve the country joining the customs union.

At the same time, Burnham also raised the possibility of the UK fully rejoining the EU.

"We could stay as we are, that's definitely an option, if people think this is the right place to stay," the prime minister said. "Or we could go all the way."

What this means for Britain

Burnham's statement marked the first time since the referendum on leaving the EU that a UK prime minister has publicly raised the possibility of the country fully rejoining the bloc.

The day before, speaking at the Labour Party's annual conference, Burnham said that the current relationship with the European Union was not working in Britain's interests.

At the same time, Burnham stressed that during the current parliamentary term, the government would adhere to the Labour Party's existing election manifesto. It provides for the UK to remain outside the EU single market and customs union.

According to the prime minister, there are no plans to change this approach during the current parliament. Instead, he wants to determine a new course in relations with the European Union at a summit scheduled for later this year.

Burnham then plans to present the chosen format of relations with the EU to British voters at the next general election. It will take place in 2029.

In April 2026, a poll by Best for Britain showed that 53% of Britons support the country rejoining the European Union.

At the same time, the EU has said that if Britain rejoins, it will not be able to count on its former privileges. London would have to accept the general rules that apply to other member states.