Exclusive: Findings will bolster those in No 10 who want to negotiate on re-entry but some senior figures remain wary
Nearly half of voters support Andy Burnham’s personal preference to seek re-entry to the European Union after the next general election, according to a new megapoll, though some cabinet ministers privately warn against reopening the Brexit debate.
The survey, conducted by the Messina Group (TMG), suggests that renegotiating the UK’s relationship with the EU and then offering a fresh referendum in which the prime minister campaigned to rejoin could increase Labour’s vote share by up to seven percentage points.
The findings are likely to strengthen the position of ministers around No 10 who favour entering talks with Brussels about the terms of rejoining. However, senior figures concerned about the political risks of revisiting Brexit divisions are urging caution, arguing the move could provoke internal party conflict and inflame public debate ahead of the election.
Labour sources said the TMG results add weight to arguments in favour of exploring options, but stressed any decision would be taken carefully, with a full assessment of electoral impact and party unity. Critics warned a focus on EU re-entry could distract from other priorities such as the cost of living and public services.
The megapoll’s headline finding — that backing for rejoining could translate into a substantial boost for Labour — will intensify debate within government and the party about whether to make EU renegotiation and a referendum a central plank of the campaign strategy.
Source: theguardian.com
