# UK government consideration of EU re-entry > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/uk-government-consideration-of-eu-re-entry > Updated: 2026-10-02T02:05:33.000Z. Sources: 314. Developments: 3. British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has indicated a significant shift in the United Kingdom’s relationship with the European Union, stating that Brexit has caused “more harm than good.” To address economic uncertainty, the government is considering several paths, including joining a customs union, returning to the single market, or pursuing full re-entry into the EU. These options are expected to be presented at a bilateral summit in November. Economic projections from the Office for Budget Responsibility suggest the UK’s long-term GDP would be 4% lower without EU membership. While French President Emmanuel Macron and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez have welcomed the potential move, describing it as a “wise decision,” officials in Brussels have maintained a more cautious tone. European Commission diplomats expressed wariness due to previous shifts in British political stances. Domestically, the proposal has drawn sharp criticism. Suella Braverman, representing Reform UK, characterized the potential policy shift as “an affront to democracy” and a “slap in the face to British patriots.” Recent developments include Prime Minister Burnham suggesting that a second Brexit referendum could be held following consultations regarding a new long-term relationship. This has prompted Germany to pledge support; German Ambassador Susanne Bauman stated that Berlin would assist the UK in establishing “ambitious new relations,” noting the UK is an integral part of Europe’s history. However, Nigel Farage of Reform UK warned that a second referendum could deeply divide the country. Additionally, economists have raised concerns that uncertainty regarding a Brexit reversal could lead to renewed investment stagnation, particularly affecting high-tech sectors like artificial intelligence and life sciences. During the Labour Party conference, Burnham clarified that while an immediate return is not being proposed, the current arrangement is not “good enough.” ## Claims - Prime Minister Andy Burnham stated that all options for the UK's relationship with the EU are on the table, including full membership. (corroborated by 5 sources) - Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, claimed Burnham's stance on the EU would provide a significant political boost to his party. (corroborated by 3 sources) - The German ambassador to the UK stated that Berlin would be a partner to help the UK establish a new relationship with the EU. (corroborated by 2 sources) - French President Emmanuel Macron welcomed the possibility of the UK moving closer to the EU. (corroborated by 2 sources) - Burnham indicated that if public opinion shifted, the Labour Party could propose a new referendum on EU membership during the 2029 general election. (single source) - The European Commission stated it remains open to engaging on any options the UK government puts forward. (single source) - Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch suggested that Prime Minister Burnham might call a general election as early as May. (single source) ## Timeline ### 2026-10-02: UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham signals potential EU re-entry UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has reopened the Brexit debate, stating that rejoining the EU, the single market, or a customs union are all potential options for the country's future relationship with the bloc. 9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/uk-prime-minister-andy-burnham-signals-potential-eu-rejoining ### 2026-10-01: Germany pledges support for UK potential EU re-entry Germany has pledged to support the United Kingdom if it seeks to rejoin the European Union, following Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s suggestion of a potential second Brexit referendum. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/germany-pledges-support-for-uk-potential-eu-re-entry ### 2026-09-28: UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham considers EU re-entry options UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has opened the door to rejoining the EU, stating Brexit has caused more harm than benefit. He plans to present various relationship options at a summit in November. 308 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/uk-state-pension-triple-lock-faces-pressure-ahead-of-budget --- Cite as: UK government consideration of EU re-entry. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/uk-government-consideration-of-eu-re-entry