David Miliband has described Brexit as a “unilateral declaration of political impotence” that has left the United Kingdom in a precarious state, likening it to “a bobbing cork in the sea”, reports BritPanorama.
The former Labour foreign secretary’s remarks come amid a rising chorus advocating for a reevaluation of Britain’s relationship with the European Union. In an interview with The Independent Editor-in-Chief Geordie Greig, Miliband lamented that Brexit has resulted in the “exactly the daily anguish” that critics had predicted.
He stressed the need for a new “institutionalised” relationship with the EU while expressing disappointment in former Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s lack of a clear vision for achieving this. However, he expressed confidence that his successor, Andy Burnham, could succeed where others have faltered.
Burnham recently refrained from dismissing the possibility of a reversal of Brexit in Labour’s next election manifesto, stating that the matter is “for another day.”
Miliband, who served as foreign secretary from 2007 to 2010, noted the tangible difficulties facing various sectors, including cheese manufacturers and fishermen, remarking, “Brexit has been exactly the daily anguish we feared.”
He argued that the UK is now economically and politically weaker, highlighting that the disengagement has not only diminished Britain’s influence but has also left the EU and the West at a disadvantage. He elaborated, stating, “The EU is less well balanced and we have left Europe without an absolutely critical anchor and contributor.”
Debunking Brexiteers’ claims that “geography doesn’t matter,” he cited the ongoing Russian aggression in Ukraine as evidence of the geopolitical realities that underscore the interconnectedness of nations.
Miliband asserted the necessity of redefining the UK-EU relationship, lamenting that Ukraine and Canada now seek to establish closer ties with the EU while Britain remains outside. He urged for a collective effort towards “a new project for European security and prosperity.”
He critiqued the current government for its failure to articulate a vision for re-establishing ties with Brussels, claiming it never gained traction without a clear framework. He proposed that by the next parliament, Britain’s relationship with Europe should evolve significantly.
While acknowledging the challenges ahead, he noted that the EU may be more flexible than in the past. He indicated that this could pave the way for a new agreement, emphasizing, “The deal we were offered has gone so we have got to fashion a new one.”
Although the exact form of this new arrangement remains unclear, he posited that it must primarily address the economic repercussions of leaving the EU’s Customs Union and Single Market.
Miliband referred to the potential benefits of a renewed partnership, arguing it could bolster the economy and unify Europe against prevalent security threats. He maintained that a proactive stance is essential, stating, “We cannot afford to be provincial about it. We have got to be engaged.”
When asked whether he believes Burnham would handle this task more effectively than Starmer, Miliband was optimistic, noting Burnham’s commitment to ambition and boldness.
Addressing concerns about reopening the divisive referendum wounds, he contended, “It’s not about reopening old wounds, it’s about stopping future wounds.”
