Rachel Reeves, former chancellor of the United Kingdom, has renewed her call for Britain’s future to be closely tied to the European Union, stating that Brexit has left the country “poorer, weaker and less secure.” Speaking in a forthcoming Harvard lecture and through recent public interventions, Reeves emphasized her long-standing pro-European stance and underscored the economic and geopolitical case for re-engagement with the EU.

Since leaving the Treasury following Andy Burnham’s rise to prime minister, Reeves has urged supporters of renewed EU membership to make a compelling, clear case to the public. She highlighted the challenges Brexit has posed, including increased trade barriers and economic uncertainty, warning of the risk that the UK could become “stranded between powerful trading blocs.” Reeves also praised Burnham’s willingness to address Brexit realities head-on, noting that his government’s agenda on Europe and investment mirrors many themes she previously advocated.

Burnham’s administration has outlined a two-stage approach to Brexit reform. The current phase, aligned with the Labour manifesto for 2024, commits to staying outside the EU customs union and single market while maintaining control over freedom of movement. Burnham has called for an honest public discussion on these issues and suggested that more substantive changes, possibly including closer EU ties, would require approval through a future referendum or election mandate.

Within government, there are mixed views on the Brexit strategy. Some ministers, including Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, have expressed reservations about the potential impact of new EU arrangements on migration and border controls. Meanwhile, Chancellor John Healey has taken a more cautious tone, focusing on managing Britain’s position outside the EU without making commitments to rejoining within his lifetime.

Reeves’s influence on current policymaking is notable, particularly regarding her investment-driven growth model introduced during her time as chancellor. She made the controversial decision to increase employers’ national insurance contributions to fund a £100 billion capital spending program aimed at improving infrastructure, healthcare, housing, transport, and energy sectors. Much of this investment agenda is now central to Burnham and Healey’s budget plans and broader strategy to strengthen regional economies through greater devolution.

Supporting greater regional autonomy, Reeves has criticized centralized governance and highlighted the underperformance of UK cities outside London compared to their European counterparts. This focus aligns with Burnham’s vision to decentralize fiscal powers and promote more balanced economic growth across the country.

As Burnham’s government prepares to engage with the EU summit later this month to negotiate new trade and mobility agreements, Reeves’s analysis and policy legacy continue to shape the ongoing debate about Britain’s relationship with Europe and its economic future. While political and public opinion remains divided, Reeves advocates for a pragmatic, progressive approach that balances economic credibility with Britain’s core values and geopolitical realities.