Burnham: Brexit Causes Harms Exceeding Benefits

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham pledged today to seek consensus on strengthening his country’s ties with the European Union, risking the reopening of the deep divisions over Brexit.

This pledge comes ten years after Britain voted to leave the European Union, a period marked by political instability, sluggish economic growth, and debate over whether the country’s fate should remain tied to its closest and largest trading partner.

Speaking at a Labour Party conference on Tuesday, Burnham said, “Brexit has caused more harm than good,” adding that the upcoming summit with the EU in November represents the next step in rebuilding relations, as part of an effort to boost growth and prosperity.

Burnham has previously expressed his desire for Britain to rejoin the EU within his lifetime, but clarified that he is not proposing this at present and respects the outcome of the 2016 referendum.

His efforts to strengthen ties with the EU come amid threats of a wider war in Europe, the impact of Donald Trump on trade and defense spending, and the broader geopolitical landscape shaping alliances worldwide.

Britain unsuccessfully attempted to join a joint European defense investment program and is now seeking inclusion in the “Made in Europe” initiative.