Former Chancellor Rachel Reeves has publicly backed Britain’s eventual return to the European Union, arguing that Brexit has weakened the country’s economy and security. Her comments, published in The Sunday Times on 31 October 2026, follow Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s decision to reopen debate about Britain’s long-term relationship with Brussels.
Reeves backs eventual membership
Reeves wrote that Brexit had made Britain “poorer, weaker and less secure” and said: “I do believe Britain’s future lies in the European Union.” She also said supporters of rejoining must make the case to voters, demonstrate tangible benefits and identify practical next steps. The comments express her personal political position, not a Government decision.
Why the intervention matters
Reeves helped develop Labour’s 2024 election manifesto, which ruled out a return to the EU, single market or customs union during the current Parliament. She served as Chancellor until July 2026. Her intervention is therefore notable, although it does not formally change Labour policy or establish a timetable for rejoining.
Burnham opens debate on Britain’s future
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has raised options ranging from maintaining current arrangements to closer single-market or customs-union ties and eventual EU membership. He has said fundamental changes would require a public mandate and would be considered beyond the current Parliament. The distinction between discussion of future options and an agreed policy is important.
Youth mobility and defence priorities
Ahead of the UK-EU summit scheduled for 20 November, Reeves called for progress on a reciprocal youth mobility arrangement and British participation in the EU’s Security Action for Europe (SAFE) defence initiative. Neither measure would itself restore EU membership. Details of any agreement would depend on negotiations.
Government and opposition responses
Chief Secretary to the Treasury Emma Reynolds reiterated that Labour’s existing manifesto commitments apply during this Parliament, while acknowledging discussion about the longer-term relationship. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has opposed reopening the membership question, arguing that Britain should focus on its current post-Brexit arrangements.
What happens next?
The November UK-EU summit could produce further developments on practical cooperation. Reeves has not proposed a timetable for an accession application or set out whether a referendum should be held. Any return to EU membership would require negotiations and political approval, and no such process has been launched.