Andy Burnham, the UK Prime Minister, has reopened debate over the country’s future relationship with the European Union by suggesting the possibility of a second referendum on EU membership. In recent interviews, Burnham floated several options for Britain’s ties with Brussels, including full re-entry into the EU, rejoining the single market or customs union, or adopting an “associate membership” model similar to that offered to Canada.

Burnham acknowledged that proposing a new national vote would be “divisive” but argued it was necessary to address ongoing challenges. “I can’t avoid the Europe question if I’m to put out a credible ten-year plan for Britain,” he told ITV, adding that after more than a decade since the 2016 referendum, the country “isn’t functioning as it should.” When pressed on whether Labour’s next election manifesto might include a pledge for another in-or-out referendum, Burnham responded to the BBC that it was “possible” but emphasized the need for caution given the potential to deepen societal divisions.

The Prime Minister’s comments mark a shift from earlier statements made during his leadership campaign, when he insisted he did not wish to “re-run” Brexit debates or undermine the original referendum result. His remarks have been welcomed by several European leaders. French President Emmanuel Macron greeted the prospect of renewed UK-EU engagement with a “welcome back,” while Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said Britain would be received with “open arms.”

However, Burnham’s position has drawn swift criticism from across the political spectrum. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch dismissed the idea of rejoining the EU, arguing it would not resolve domestic issues such as high energy costs, business departures, welfare expenses, or defense funding. Mark Francois, chair of the European Research Group of Tory MPs, claimed Burnham’s intention was clearly to pursue full EU membership and warned that Brussels would seek to exploit any overtures.

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage is scheduled to address a rally in Doncaster warning that Burnham aims to reintroduce the euro and restore freedom of movement with the EU’s 500 million citizens.

Burnham also faces opposition within his own party and from his constituents in Makerfield, a constituency that voted heavily in favor of leaving the EU. Veteran Labour MP Graham Stringer labeled a second referendum a “betrayal” of the democratic decision taken in 2016 and cautioned that renewed debate would likely be “more acrimonious” than before. Stringer noted that initial polling support for rejoining the EU tends to fade once the public considers the potential costs, such as adopting the euro, losing the British rebate, and joining the Schengen visa-free zone. Many analysts agree Brussels would impose tougher conditions than those the UK previously held, a view echoed by some Cabinet ministers.

A spokesperson for the European Commission said discussions remain open but emphasized it is up to the UK government to clarify how it wants to shape its future relationship with the EU. The spokesperson added, “We remain open to engaging on the options it may put forward.”