Andy Burnham, the new British prime minister, is largely unknown in continental Europe, having prioritised a domestic agenda of devolving powers and extending state control. However, European leaders may find him more open to closer engagement with the EU than his predecessor, Keir Starmer, as economic and security imperatives push London toward Brussels.
Domestic focus with European implications
Burnham's initial priorities are domestic, but the UK's economic stagnation and declining living standards are partly due to Brexit's damping effects on trade and investment. Without closer ties with the EU, the UK's main export market, healthier growth remains elusive. According to Joël Reland of the UK in a Changing Europe thinktank, Burnham "is formulating an economic and security agenda which could bring London into closer line with Brussels."
Security and defence cooperation
Burnham is likely to maintain Starmer's role in European security, particularly the "coalition of the willing" on Ukraine and safe passage in the Strait of Hormuz. European governments are receptive to defence and security cooperation and increasingly willing to include the UK in EU efforts for greater sovereignty over key technologies and supply chains. However, they remain wary of UK cherry-picking benefits without responsibilities like paying for market access or allowing free movement.
Political and social parallels
Burnham faces challenges similar to his continental peers: surging national populism, backlash against immigration, and anger over the cost of living. With populists like Marine Le Pen and Alice Weidel gaining ground, Burnham has an interest in allying with pro-European liberal democratic forces. The geopolitical case is compelling, with Putin's hybrid war, Trump's disengagement, and Xi Jinping's economic pressure.
Opportunity to reset red lines
Burnham has an opportunity to review Labour's red lines on EU relations—no single market, no customs union, no freedom of movement—and pursue a more ambitious opening. He also has the charisma to sell it to the public. Building closer ties with Europe, starting with security and defence, makes sense domestically. Labour has been losing pro-European voters to the Liberal Democrats and Greens, and working-class Brexit voters to Reform. Burnham can reverse these losses by positioning Labour as a practical pro-European force.
Practical steps toward integration
One area for cooperation is defence industrial collaboration, joining a follow-up to the EU's Safe joint procurement instrument. Another is accepting an ambitious youth experience programme with reciprocal opportunities for young Britons to study and work in Europe. Temporary visas for European students and apprentices might increase immigration but benefit the UK economy and scientific achievement. Burnham may seek a democratic mandate for departing from red lines, but he should start making the case now for the UK's benefit in the single market.
