Fresh concerns that the Labour Party might be planning another European Union referendum have emerged following a statement from a minister indicating that 'all options are on the table' regarding the UK's relationship with the bloc. Senior figures within the party are privately suggesting that Labour is preparing for a campaign to rejoin the EU.
Emma Reynolds, Chief Secretary to the Treasury, addressed the possibility of a closer relationship with the EU on Sunday, declining to rule out various options for the UK's future. "I don't want to get ahead of the Prime Minister setting out those options, but I think all of those options are on the table," Reynolds stated. "There are arguments for certainly a much closer relationship with the European Union that isn't as economically damaging."
These remarks follow comments made by Andy Burnham the previous weekend, who suggested that a referendum might be necessary to restore free movement within the EU. Downing Street later clarified that the public might not necessarily be granted a vote on the issue.
Rachel Reeves, a former chancellor, also made a significant intervention, asserting that Brexit has made the UK "poorer, weaker and less secure," and that Britain's "future lies in the EU."
A significant UK-EU summit is scheduled for later this month, during which the Prime Minister is expected to outline a range of potential new relationships with Brussels. These options are anticipated to include membership in the single market and customs union, as well as full EU rejoining.
The return of Ben Nunn, Ms. Reeves' former chief of staff and a trusted aide to Sir Keir Starmer during his time in opposition, to Number 10 as Mr. Burnham's new EU adviser has fueled speculation. One minister commented to the Daily Mail, "It's pretty obvious why they're bringing him in. He's going to mastermind the Rejoin campaign."
Additionally, reports have emerged that ministers are prepared to allocate up to £450 million annually to provide discounted university fees for EU students.