Reeves says UK's future should be inside the EU
In her first major intervention since leaving the Treasury, Rachel Reeves says Brexit has made the UK "poorer, weaker and less secure".
Former Chancellor Rachel Reeves has stated that the UK's future should be within the European Union, contending that Brexit has rendered the country poorer, weaker, and less secure. In her initial significant comment since leaving the Treasury, Reeves encouraged debate surrounding the UK's relationship with Europe. During the last election, Labour's platform pledged to remain outside the EU and manage Brexit effectively.
However, Prime Minister Andy Burnham emphasized the necessity for an honest conversation about the prospective relationship's form. The Conservatives have expressed no intent to repeat the Brexit debate, while Reform UK's Nigel Farage affirmed there is no mandate to pursue closer EU ties. Labour's 2024 election platform rejected the return of free movement, single market membership, or a customs union.
Burnham has stated that any modifications would necessitate a mandate during a general election, anticipated to occur by 2029. In a Sunday Times article, Reeves wrote, "No-one in the Treasury ever doubted where my instincts were. I do believe Britain's future lies in the European Union." She noted that advocates of rejoining the EU must assert the arguments, showcase tangible gains, and guarantee the subsequent steps' precision.
Reeves also expressed her anticipation for validation of the youth mobility scheme she has been advocating since her tenure in office, as well as for advancements towards joining the Security Action for Europe (SAFE) scheme. Announced in March, SAFE is an EU-wide endeavor to fortify itself following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
A defense pact concluded with the EU last May enabled UK-based defense firms to participate in projects financed by SAFE. Reeves utilized her Sunday Times piece to defend her administrative record. She wrote about the requirement for governments to be bold in constructing significant infrastructure projects and being unblinking about the risks and advantages AI would bring to advanced economies.
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