Public support for the United Kingdom rejoining the European Union remains high, but significant concerns persist regarding the potential terms of re-entry, including whether the UK would need to adopt the euro or join the Schengen travel area.

According to political analyst Sir John, although proponents of rejoining the EU would begin from a stronger position than during the 2016 referendum, the campaign to rejoin would still require effective framing to secure public backing. He emphasized that Labour’s current approach—characterized as a “keep quiet” strategy under Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham—may hinder efforts to build wider support for closer ties with the bloc.

Sir John noted that Labour leader Keir Starmer and his chief adviser Morgan McSweeney initially aimed to reconnect with working-class and Leave voters, particularly in the so-called “red wall” constituencies believed to be pivotal for Labour’s prospects in the 2024 general election. However, this strategy has so far yielded only limited results.

Although Labour has recently begun to address Brexit more openly, Sir John highlighted the importance of upcoming negotiations, such as the expected UK-EU summit later this year. Discussions are anticipated to focus on resolving issues related to food and drink exports and youth mobility. He cautioned that without clearly communicating and defending their policies, Labour risks public resistance to any changes the party would seek to implement.

He further warned that if Labour fails to articulate their position, prominent figures such as Nigel Farage and Conservative MP Kemi Badenoch could frame the party’s efforts as a disregard for the 2016 referendum outcome.

The Cabinet Office declined to provide a comment on the matter.