Sunday, 1 November 2026 Updated 50 min ago
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Rachel Reeves says Britain would be better inside the EU and backs Andy Burnham

Former chancellor Rachel Reeves told the Sunday Times that leaving the European Union has left the United Kingdom “poorer, weaker and less secure”.

Image accompanying the story: Rachel Reeves says Britain would be better inside the EU and backs Andy Burnham
Image: Photograph: Toby Melville/Reuters · via The Guardian

Former chancellor Rachel Reeves told the Sunday Times that leaving the European Union has left the United Kingdom “poorer, weaker and less secure”. The Labour former cabinet minister argued that the country’s future belongs inside the bloc. Reeves said she welcomed Andy Burnham’s leadership after recent comments by the prime minister sparked questions about whether Britain might return to the EU or adopt its freedom‑of‑movement rules. Her remarks come as the Labour party debates its position on Brexit and the possibility of re‑engaging with European institutions.

Reeves’ statement reflects a broader discussion within the party about the economic and security implications of the UK’s departure from the EU. By supporting Burnham, she signals alignment with a faction that favours closer ties with Europe.

Why it matters

The comments show growing pressure within Labour to reconsider the UK’s post‑Brexit direction and could influence future policy debates.

Key details

Location
United Kingdom · Europe
Reported by
The Guardian
First reported
Key names
UK, Rachel Reeves, EU, Andy Burnham
Section
Politics

Sources

This is an independent summary. Read the full, original reporting from the publisher:

Read the full story at The Guardian

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