Labour’s Andy Burnham has left open the possibility of including a pledge to rejoin the European Union in the party’s next manifesto, signaling a potential shift in the political discourse surrounding Brexit. Speaking ahead of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Burnham did not rule out such a commitment when asked directly, describing the issue as a matter “for another day.”

Burnham’s remarks come amid growing public support for rejoining the EU. Recent polling shows a rise to 61 percent in favor of reversing Brexit, with constituency-level research indicating that all but four constituencies in Great Britain now support re-entry. Sir John Curtice, a prominent polling analyst, emphasized that this shift in public opinion presents a significant opportunity for political leaders, noting that greater engagement on the topic could further sway public sentiment.

The new Labour minister for European relations, Hamish Falconer, has similarly refrained from dismissing the prospect of including a rejoin pledge in the party’s manifesto. Falconer has repeatedly avoided committing to a position on the matter, instead advocating for faster and deeper improvements to the Brexit deal negotiated by the Conservative government.

Burnham highlighted his immediate focus on an upcoming UK-EU summit planned for later this year, aiming to mend relationships strained by earlier political developments. He advocated for a “practical agreement” with the EU that could stimulate the British economy, but also expressed reservations about the EU’s recently introduced “Made in Europe” policy, which he warned might negatively impact British industries and supply chains. He plans to discuss these concerns directly with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen during their time at the UN.

While Burnham has previously voiced support for the UK rejoining the EU and pursuing closer ties, he has also acknowledged the importance of respecting democratic outcomes and cautioned against reopening divisive Brexit debates. However, including a pledge in Labour’s manifesto could provide a clear mandate for the policy, signaling official party intent.

Separately, Burnham criticized attempts by “outside actors” to influence UK democracy, responding to the EU’s offer to Canada and questions about the UK potentially becoming an associate member of the union.

As public and political interest in reversing Brexit continues to grow, Labour’s stance and forthcoming decisions on the manifesto could significantly shape the future of the UK’s relationship with the European Union.