Table of Contents
The European Union’s former Brexit negotiator has warned that the United Kingdom cannot pick and choose which elements of the single market it wishes to join. The statement comes after Andy Burnham expressed a desire to explore closer economic ties with Europe.
Single Market Rules and the Four Freedoms
Michel Barnier told BBC News that EU member states would insist the UK readopts certain mandatory conditions to gain access, such as the free movement of people. He stated that there is no single market menu allowing nations to select only desired portions. Barnier, who led the EU delegation in Brexit talks from 2016 to 2021 and served as French prime minister in 2024, emphasized that the door remains open for the UK to rejoin as a full member.
Any move to re-enter the single market, which enables the free trade of goods without border controls, requires adherence to the same terms as other members. Barnier explained that this compliance encompasses the circulation of goods, services, capital, and people, known collectively within EU institutions as the four freedoms. He noted that accepting one freedom without the others is not possible.
Upcoming Talks and Past Referendum Debates
Since taking office in July, Burnham has indicated a willingness to commit Labour to a much closer future relationship with Europe, including potentially rejoining as a full member, though major changes are ruled out before the next election. Both sides plan to use a Brussels meeting in 10 days to unveil deals concerning food standards, youth visas, and linking British industry to the EU carbon trading regime.
The free movement of people was a central issue during the 2016 Brexit referendum. Burnham’s predecessor, Sir Keir Starmer, ruled out restoring it in Labour’s 2024 election manifesto. Burnham recently stated in an interview that he would not re-establish free movement without a referendum, while Downing Street clarified he is not currently advocating its return.
Barnier also predicted that EU countries would reject reinstating the British financial rebate negotiated in 1985, which reduced UK contributions to the annual budget during its membership. He stated that the UK’s exit created a new situation, making a new rebate entirely off the table.
Reactions to Past Claims
During the interview, Barnier compared Reform leader Nigel Farage to French politician Marine Le Pen, citing shared populism, lies, and false promises. Asked for clarification, Barnier pointed to the promise made by Farage and Boris Johnson regarding returning £350 million per week to the UK, which he called untrue and impossible.
The Vote Leave campaign famously featured a bus slogan claiming the UK sent £350 million a week to the EU to fund the NHS instead. Critics noted the figure represented a gross contribution that ignored the UK rebate and EU investments. Johnson defended the claim in his 2024 memoirs and previous statements, arguing that the figure was based on gross contributions and that EU spending in the UK lacked democratic control.
Responding to the remarks, Farage said: “It is the same old Barnier – arrogant, out of touch and a bully. He vindicates our decision to leave every time he opens his mouth.”
Both governments and negotiating teams prepare for the upcoming summit in Brussels to discuss future cooperation on specific bilateral sectors.
