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Burnham Rules Out EU Rejoin in Current Term

By Drooid · Oct 26, 2026, 10:24 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Andy Burnham Warns Brexit

Burnham warned Brexit has weakened the British economy and the UK's control over immigration.
He said he will not pursue EU re-membership during the current parliamentary term.
Burnham urged practical steps to improve the existing post-Brexit arrangement.
Interviewer Susanna Reid noted 65 percent of Burnham’s Makerfield constituents voted to leave the EU.
He reiterated his pledge not to hold another EU referendum, saying voters will decide.

Summary

Andy Burnham First Interview

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham gave his first interview on ITV's Good Morning Britain near his 100th day in office.
Presenters Richard Madeley and Susanna Reid asked Andy Burnham whether a new general election might be called.
Susanna Reid also asked if Andy Burnham intends to rejoin the EU during his lifetime.
Viewers offered mixed reactions, criticizing interruptions while praising Andy Burnham’s reassuring performance.

History

Historical Context

After Edward Heath’s Conservative government brought Britain into the European Communities on 1 January 1973, Labour Prime Minister Harold Wilson pledged a public vote. The 5 June 1975 referendum—Britain’s first nationwide plebiscite—recorded 67.2% support with a 64% turnout, despite a split cabinet. That decisive endorsement shaped the pro-European stance that lasted until the 2016 Brexit vote reversed it.

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Andy Burnham Warns Brexit

Burnham warned Brexit has weakened the British economy and the UK's control over immigration.
He said he will not pursue EU re-membership during the current parliamentary term.
Burnham urged practical steps to improve the existing post-Brexit arrangement.
Interviewer Susanna Reid noted 65 percent of Burnham’s Makerfield constituents voted to leave the EU.
He reiterated his pledge not to hold another EU referendum, saying voters will decide.

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