French President Emmanuel Macron expressed support for potential closer ties between the United Kingdom and the European Union following comments by British Prime Minister Andy Burnham. Burnham suggested that the UK could explore various options to enhance its relationship with the EU, possibly even rejoining the bloc in the future.
During a joint appearance with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez in Madrid, Macron stated that a renewed relationship between the UK and the EU would be beneficial for both sides. Sánchez also endorsed the idea of strengthening UK-EU relations.
Prime Minister Burnham has proposed that the UK consider several models for its future engagement with the EU. These models range from a closer trading arrangement and customs union to single-market membership and potentially full EU membership.
Macron highlighted that the UK had been a significant partner during its time as an EU member and emphasized that any closer relationship would require the UK to adhere to the rules and obligations associated with the EU’s internal market.
EU officials have reiterated that it is up to the UK government to decide how it wishes to advance its relations with the bloc. They have also indicated that the EU remains open to discussions. Both the UK and the EU are preparing for an upcoming summit in Brussels later this year, where they will address their ongoing relationship.
