French Minister Encourages UK to Reverse Brexit

French Finance Minister Roland Lescure has urged Andy Burnham, the UK's Prime Minister, to fully reverse Brexit, stating that the UK could rejoin the European Union at any time. The comments came during an interview with the BBC, following Burnham's speech at the Labour conference where he indicated a willingness to explore options for closer ties with the EU.

Lescure welcomed Burnham's openness to reconsidering EU membership, advising him to "come all the way." He emphasized that the decision rests with the British public but reiterated that "they can come back, any time." Lescure suggested that rejoining would allow the UK to participate in discussions on issues such as the "Made in Europe" scheme, which could impact British exports.

Burnham is scheduled to meet German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Berlin to discuss defense, security, and trade. The Prime Minister and European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen are also expected to discuss deepening trade links at an upcoming summit.

Burnham's recent remarks on Brexit have received support from other European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, who have indicated the UK would be welcomed back by the EU. In his Labour conference speech, Burnham stated that Brexit had caused "more harm than good" and suggested that addressing the relationship with Europe was crucial for a credible long-term plan for Britain, acknowledging that "it is better to be closer" to the EU given global threats.