Macron Calls Brexit 'Biggest Lie,' Welcomes UK Rejoining EU as Burnham Explores Options

French President Emmanuel Macron has labeled Brexit "the biggest lie of the last 30 years," criticizing its proponents' promises of increased wealth and controlled immigration. Speaking in Madrid on Tuesday evening during a state visit, Macron argued that Brexit has led to a decline in GDP and complicated immigration issues.

His remarks coincided with comments from British politician Andy Burnham, who stated that the UK should explore future relationship options with the European Union, including the possibility of rejoining the bloc. Macron responded to Burnham's sentiments, calling a potential UK return to the EU "excellent news" and a "good decision."

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez echoed this sentiment, stating that Spain would "welcome Britain back in the EU with open arms." Sanchez also characterized Brexit as a "huge loss" for both the British population and the broader European project.

Macron, addressing reporters alongside Sanchez, emphasized that the UK's prior membership in the EU was beneficial, describing the British as "demanding partners" who helped "simplify things." He also pointed out the challenges of seeking closer ties with the EU while remaining outside it, stating, "You cannot choose between the freedoms of the union and decide to take what suits us and not the rest."

Burnham's suggestion to consider rejoining the EU came after he indicated at the Labour Party's annual conference that he would present "different options" for the UK's future ties with the European Union. He told the BBC that staying as the UK is currently, exploring a customs union as proposed by former Conservative chancellor George Osborne, adopting the Liberal Democrats' stance on the single market, or "going all the way" by rejoining were all possibilities to be considered.

However, Burnham's comments have drawn criticism. Scottish Labour leader Michael Marra called the idea of rejoining the EU "unrealistic." This stance also marks a shift for Burnham, who in May had stated he was not proposing the UK rejoin the EU and that he respected the referendum result.

Labour's 2024 election manifesto explicitly ruled out rejoining a customs union, the single market, or restoring freedom of movement with the EU. Burnham acknowledged that "pros and cons" for each option needed careful consideration.