Former Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier stated that while Britain could be welcomed back into the European Union, there would be conditions involved, reports BritPanorama.
Barnier, a former French prime minister, emphasized that the UK left behind 600 international agreements when it exited the EU. Should the UK seek to rejoin, it would face the principle of “welcome back, but there are conditions attached.”
Recently, Labour Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, indicated that Labour’s future election manifesto might include a referendum on EU membership, suggesting a potential shift in the political landscape regarding the UK’s EU ties.
Additionally, former Labour leader Neil Kinnock expressed confidence in Burnham’s capacity to guide the UK back into the EU. Meanwhile, polling results indicate that support for rejoining the EU has risen to 61%, the highest since the Brexit referendum. Notably, academic estimates suggest Brexit may have reduced the UK’s GDP by up to 8% due to trade disruptions and regulatory challenges.
Barnier remarked that Parliament should weigh in before any closer EU relations are pursued by Burnham. He reiterated that the choice to leave the EU was a sovereign decision of the British public, and any discussions pertaining to rejoining must reflect that sovereignty.
He stated, “Andy Burnham and his government need to clarify their intentions and debate them in the House of Commons and the House of Lords.” Barnier cautioned that the path to EU reaccession would be long and complex, underscoring the need for clarity on the UK’s stance regarding European regulations.
Barnier noted, “There would be no single market à la carte,” pointing out that non-EU members of the customs union and single market do not possess voting rights on EU legislation.
Despite his reservations about Brexit, which he termed a “lose-lose game,” Barnier highlighted the potential for collaborative efforts between the UK and the EU in areas such as foreign policy and defense. He mentioned that an upcoming EU-UK summit on November 20 would signify a positive shift under Burnham’s leadership.
Barnier concluded by acknowledging the complications that could arise if the UK diverges from European regulations, emphasizing the need for careful navigation in future relations.
As discussions on the UK’s European relationship gain momentum, the implications of this evolving dialogue could shape not just political strategy but also the economic landscape. The coming weeks are likely to reveal more about the trajectory of these talks.
