Burnham’s ‘path’ on Brexit welcomed

By the Editorial Team · Wednesday, September 30, 2026

Prime Minister Andy Burnham committed to presenting a detailed plan for the UK's future relationship with the EU ahead of a summit later this year, acknowledging Brexit's negative impacts. His proposal has garnered strong support from key business groups advocating for reduced trade barriers and closer economic ties to boost growth and competitiveness.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has pledged to outline a clear strategy for the United Kingdom’s future relationship with the European Union, a move welcomed by major business groups seeking closer ties with the bloc. Speaking at a conference in Liverpool on Tuesday, Burnham acknowledged that Brexit had caused more harm than benefit and promised to present options ahead of an EU summit scheduled for later this year.

Burnham’s remarks signal a potential shift toward deeper economic integration, reviving discussions about the UK rejoining the EU’s single market and customs union. After years of complex and often contentious negotiations, the prime minister’s commitment has been received positively by sectors seeking to ease trade barriers and stimulate growth.

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) praised Burnham’s “pragmatic tone” on reconstructing relations with the EU. BCC director-general Shevaun Haviland emphasized the need for practical measures that reduce costs and streamline trade processes with the UK’s largest export destination. She welcomed the prime minister’s assurance that a UK-EU summit would take place by the end of the year.

Similarly, Rain Newton-Smith, chief executive of the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), highlighted the competitive pressures faced by British firms in the global market. Newton-Smith said that a more ambitious economic partnership with the EU could generate meaningful gains for growth on both sides, underscoring the importance of securing investment and maintaining access to European markets.

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) also endorsed Burnham’s focus on the UK-EU relationship. Tina McKenzie, the FSB’s national chairwoman, cited research indicating that 34 percent of small businesses trading with the EU anticipated reducing or halting trade if current arrangements remained unchanged, while only 6 percent expected to increase it. She stressed the need for less bureaucratic friction, fewer checks, and a trading environment that facilitates easier access to one of the world’s largest markets.

Burnham’s speech comes amid ongoing economic challenges, including sluggish growth and uncertainty over future trade arrangements. His proposed options for the UK’s EU relationship may reopen debates about the balance between sovereignty and economic integration, reflecting diverging views within the political and business communities. The forthcoming summit will likely serve as a critical juncture for defining the direction of Britain’s post-Brexit economic policy.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.