Story perspectives

Tony Blair Urges Burnham to Rejoin EU in 10 Years

By Drooid · Sep 25, 2026, 10:31 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Tony Blair urged Andy Burnham to commit to rejoining a reformed EU within ten years.
Tony Blair said the EU must follow a credible reform path for Britain’s return.
YouGov poll shows EU membership is preferred in 628 of 632 constituencies and by 35% of voters.
Andy Burnham replied the re-join pledge is “for another day” while outlining his 10-year vision.

History

Historical Context

On 5 June 1975 the United Kingdom held its first national referendum, asking voters if Britain should stay in the European Communities; 67.2% voted ‘yes’ with a 64% turnout after Labour Prime Minister Harold Wilson fulfilled a manifesto pledge. Decades later, former Labour leader Tony Blair urged Andy Burnham to adopt a ten-year re-entry plan, recalling that 1975 mandate.

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Story summary

Tony Blair urged Andy Burnham to commit to rejoining a reformed EU within ten years.
Tony Blair said the EU must follow a credible reform path for Britain’s return.
YouGov poll shows EU membership is preferred in 628 of 632 constituencies and by 35% of voters.
Andy Burnham replied the re-join pledge is “for another day” while outlining his 10-year vision.

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