UK Labour Figures Urge Closer EU Ties, Reversing Brexit

Senior figures within the UK Labour Party are advocating for a significant strengthening of ties with the European Union, with some calling for steps to reverse Brexit. Ed Miliband, the Foreign Secretary and a former Remain supporter, stated that Britons are "proud Europeans" and urged for a "stronger, deeper partnership" with the EU on trade, defense, and security.

In a speech at Labour's conference in Liverpool, Miliband emphasized the continent's shared values and interests, stating, "Europe is not just our geography but so much more." He highlighted the importance of collaboration, noting, "It's where we build and protect our alliances, so it is not simply Britain acting alone but Britain with others." Miliband also acknowledged the essential nature of the alliance with the United States but stressed that "Europe also needs to do more to defend itself."

These remarks align with growing pressure from within the party, including from London Mayor Sadiq Khan, who has urged Labour leader Andy Burnham to actively promote the benefits of EU membership. Khan suggested that the party should begin the process of rejoining the EU by seeking associate membership and advocating for full reentry in their next manifesto, without necessarily holding a second referendum.

Senior Labour MP Stella Creasy, chair of the pro-EU group Labour Movement for Europe, echoed this sentiment, suggesting that significant shifts in the UK's relationship with the EU should begin within the next six months. She argued that Labour should be comfortable using a general election manifesto as a mandate to rejoin the bloc. Creasy stated that "the disbenefits of being outside the European Union and the benefits of being part of this family" need to be clearly communicated to the public.

Miliband further commented on the economic impact of Brexit, noting at a Labour Movement for Europe rally that "Brexit has not delivered for my constituents in the way that was promised."