UK Re‑entry to EU Would Require Formal Review, Says EU MEP

The chair of the European Parliament’s foreign affairs committee, German deputy David McAllister, told the United Kingdom that there are “no political shortcuts” to any possible return to the EU. He reminded that any European country can apply under Article 49 of the Treaty on European Union, which involves a formal application to the Council, a Commission assessment and unanimous approval by all Member States. McAllister said a “focused review” would be needed to ensure UK rules match current EU law.

He called Brexit a “historical mistake” that weakened Britain’s economy and strategic weight while the EU lost a key member during a period of heightened geopolitical tension. The remarks came amid speculation about the Labour government’s stance, with Labour leader Keir Starmer under pressure and potential leadership rivals Andy Burnham and Wes Streeting expressing divergent views on re‑joining. Polling shows a narrow majority of Britons may favour a return.

Former Liberal MEP Andrew Duff added that any future bid should be built on confidence‑building measures and practical cooperation on security, defence, capital markets and migration, urging the UK to demonstrate alignment with EU rules before re‑applying.