Labour insiders confirm that internal debates are underway about revisiting aspects of the withdrawal agreement
A new survey reveals that seven in ten British voters favour stronger relations with the European Union, including a significant portion of those who backed Nigel Farage’s Reform UK party. The findings come as senior Labour figures privately discuss potential ways to reverse or soften Brexit’s impact, though no official policy shift has been announced. Conducted by Public First, the poll highlights a growing appetite across the political spectrum for renewed engagement with Brussels, despite the UK’s formal exit from the bloc in 2020. The data shows that 70% of respondents support closer ties with the EU, whether through regulatory alignment, trade cooperation, or institutional dialogue. Notably, 42% of Reform UK voters expressed agreement with this stance, challenging assumptions about hardline Euroscepticism within the party’s base. Analysts suggest the shift reflects ongoing economic pressures, particularly in sectors like agriculture and manufacturing, where businesses continue to face post-Brexit trade frictions.
Labour insiders confirm that internal debates are underway about revisiting aspects of the withdrawal agreement, though leaders stress that rejoining the single market or customs union is not currently on the table. What Drives the Shift in Public Opinion? Economic dissatisfaction appears to be a key factor behind changing attitudes, with many voters linking everyday costs to trade barriers introduced after Brexit. Surveys indicate that concerns over food prices, labour shortages, and export delays have softened resistance to EU collaboration, even among former Leave supporters. Experts note that while sovereignty remains important to many, pragmatic concerns are increasingly shaping views on the UK’s future relationship with its nearest trading partner.
The Public First data suggests that the debate is no longer simply about leaving or staying
The Public First data suggests that the debate is no longer simply about leaving or staying, but about how closely Britain should engage moving forward. Could Labour Pursue a Quiet Rapprochement? Although Labour leadership has ruled out reversing Brexit outright, senior figures have acknowledged the need to improve EU relations to boost trade and investment. Party sources say discussions focus on practical measures such as mutual recognition of professional standards, veterinary agreements, and youth mobility schemes—steps that could ease friction without requiring treaty changes or a new referendum. Any such moves would likely face scrutiny from Conservative opponents and Eurosceptic MPs, who argue that even incremental alignment undermines Brexit’s core promise. Still, the polling suggests there may be broader public patience for pragmatic compromise than political rhetoric implies. Frequently Asked Questions Does this mean Britain wants to rejoin the EU? No. The survey measures support for closer ties, not re-entry.
Most respondents favour cooperation on trade and regulation, not restoring full membership. Are Farage’s voters really shifting their views? The data shows 42% of Reform UK voters support closer EU relations, indicating a notable minority within the base favours pragmatism over strict Euroscepticism. What specific changes are being considered? Labour discussions include alignment on standards, agricultural cooperation, and youth exchanges—none of which would require rejoining the EU single market or customs union.