Burnham would like to rejoin the EU, but says the British public are bosses in UK politics
Public must decide Europe’s future
Burnham said he would like to see the UK rejoin the EU during his lifetime. He added that he would not get ahead of the public or impose his personal view.
He said the country needed to revisit its relationship with Europe and consider options for getting it right. Burnham described pragmatism and possible economic growth as central questions.
Brexit discussion could unite voters
Burnham said a practical and honest discussion of Brexit could help bring together people who voted differently. He argued that divisions experienced over the past decade needed to end.
He said he wanted to give the country direction, and that meant addressing its relationship with Europe. He rejected another backward-looking dispute, saying people wanted him to focus on the job.
Election ruled out for now
Burnham said an early election was not on his mind and insisted there would not be one anytime soon. He urged people to put the possibility out of their thoughts.
The report said two polls showing Labour eight points ahead had revived speculation about an early election. One Ipsos poll put Labour on 32%, its largest lead recorded this parliament, while Reform was second, eight points behind.
Key points
- Burnham said he would like the UK to rejoin the EU in his lifetime, but the public must decide.
- He said practical, honest discussion of Brexit could bring together voters who chose differently.
- Burnham said no election was coming soon, despite polls showing Labour eight points ahead of Reform.
- Ipsos recorded Labour on 32%, its largest lead this parliament.