A decade after the referendum, Brexit has resurfaced in British political discourse, with Labour leadership contender Wes Streeting calling it a 'catastrophic mistake' and advocating for a return to the EU. This has reignited the deep divisions between Remain and Leave voters that still dominate UK politics.
Streeting's Tactical Move
Streeting's comments are seen as a strategic play to outmaneuver rival Andy Burnham, who must win a by-election in a Leave-voting constituency. Burnham has since toned down his EU enthusiasm, while Streeting aims to force him to promise not to reverse Brexit, angering the 90% of Labour members who want rejoin.
Limited Progress Under Starmer
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has promised a 'reset' with Europe, but achievements remain modest. The UK will rejoin Erasmus+, but youth mobility schemes are stalled over tuition fees. Integration into EU electricity markets is blocked by UK refusal to pay cohesion funds, and London has been excluded from the SAFE defence fund due to reluctance to contribute financially.
Starmer now admits 'deep economic damage' from Brexit. Studies show a 6-8% GDP hit and 15% drop in trade with Europe. Public opinion favors closer ties, with 63% of Britons wanting re-engagement and 55% supporting rejoin.
Geopolitical Shift
The world has changed since 2016. Russia's war in Ukraine and US threats to NATO territory have strained transatlantic alliances. EU leaders now see value in stronger UK ties. Finnish President Alexander Stubb called Brexit 'like amputating a leg without medical reason,' and French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot said Britain would be welcomed 'with open arms' back into the single market—but with all duties.
The Price of Rejoining
Any meaningful rapprochement requires accepting EU budget contributions, regulatory alignment, and free movement. Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski noted that every option has a price in sovereignty. EU officials insist Britain would be treated as a new member, with no opt-outs or rebates. Hard negotiations on free movement, Schengen, the budget, and the euro would follow.
Until Britain decides what it wants and is willing to pay, progress remains stalled. An honest debate on trade-offs is needed, but with Nigel Farage and media cries of 'Betrayal,' that seems unlikely soon.
