Former UK chancellor backs closer European Union ties

Rachel Reeves, the former Chancellor, has said she wants Britain to rejoin the European Union. She wrote in the Sunday Times that leaving the EU has left the UK "poorer, weaker and less secure." Reeves lost her Treasury job when Andy Burnham became Prime Minister. Burnham has called for an open discussion about Britain's future relationship with Europe. Reeves welcomed this, but said supporters of rejoining must show clear benefits to the public. However, Labour's 2024 election promises ruled out returning to the single market or free movement. Burnham has said any big changes to EU relations will need a fresh electoral mandate. The next general election is due by 2029. Reeves is one of the most senior Labour figures to openly support EU membership.