'Welcome back,' says Macron, as UK PM opens door to EU return

London, October 1 - Andy Burnham, the UK's newly appointed Labour Party leader, has proposed the idea of Britain rejoining the European Union, breaking a long-standing taboo for a Prime Minister. This announcement came during his speech at the party's annual conference in Manchester, reigniting the controversial Brexit debate.

Burnham suggested that his government could "go all the way" and propose membership as a potential solution to improve relationships with Europe. His comments echoed the comments made by French President Emmanuel Macron, who welcomed the notion of Britain's re-entry into the EU. Macron stated, "If the British want to come back and if the prime minister is moving in that direction, I think that is very good news both for his country and for Europeans."

This development has sparked criticism from the right-wing Conservative party, which is responsible for Brexit. A recent poll indicated that 55% of voters would opt to rejoin the EU if a referendum were held again.

However, Burnham's comments are currently bound by Labour's 2024 election manifesto, which has ruled out joining a customs union, rejoining the single market, or allowing the return of freedom of movement with the EU. Despite these limitations, Burnham has expressed a willingness to revisit the subject at a planned summit with the 27-member bloc later this year. The summit could potentially be held in November, though no date has been confirmed.

Public opinion on the streets of Manchester, where the conference was held, was divided. While some residents supported the idea of rejoining the EU, others were skeptical, arguing that there are more pressing issues at hand.