Former Chancellor Rachel Reeves has stated that Britain’s long-term future belongs inside the European Union, asserting that the country's departure from the bloc has left it "poorer, weaker and less secure." In her first major political statement since leaving the Treasury, Reeves welcomed a renewed national discussion regarding the UK's ongoing relationship with Europe.
Writing in the Sunday Times, Reeves reflected on her time leading the Treasury and shared her underlying view on Britain's international position. She noted that no one in the Treasury ever doubted where her instincts lay, writing that she firmly believes Britain's future is within the European Union. However, she emphasized that proponents of rejoining the bloc must build a convincing case, urging supporters to make the argument, demonstrate tangible benefits, and take the right practical steps forward.
Reeves' comments come ahead of an upcoming UK-EU summit scheduled to take place in Brussels on November 20. Looking forward to the gathering, she expressed hope for official confirmation of a youth mobility scheme that she had championed while serving in government. Additionally, she called for progress toward entry into the Security Action for Europe (SAFE) initiative. Established last March to boost EU-wide defense readiness following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the SAFE framework was made accessible to UK-based defense companies through a bilateral defense pact finalized last May.
Addressing her broader tenure in office, Reeves also defended her economic record, arguing that governments must show greater courage when undertaking major infrastructure projects. She further advised that policymakers need to remain clear-eyed regarding both the potential risks and the economic advantages that artificial intelligence will generate across advanced nations.
The former chancellor's position contrasts with the platform set out during the last general election, where Labour's manifesto pledged to remain outside the EU while working to make Brexit succeed. Prime Minister Andy Burnham has acknowledged the need for an open dialogue on the future of UK-EU relations, while stressing that any substantial changes to the existing framework would necessitate a clear mandate secured at a general election, which is next expected by 2029.
Badenoch argued that relitigating European integration does nothing to address pressing domestic priorities such as spending on defense or cutting welfare costs. Characterizing the discourse as yet another internal Westminster bubble argument, she called for political leaders to utilize the opportunities created by leaving the EU, correct past errors, and focus on the future. She added that she had no desire to indulge Prime Minister Burnham's ideas about redoing the referendum when he lacks a plan for the present day.
The Conservatives have said there is no desire to rerun the Brexit debate and Reform UK's Nigel Farage has said there is no mandate to pursue closer EU ties.
Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch said she "can't even believe we are reopening" the Brexit debate.
