Britain should start considering a return to the European Union, according to a former senior civil servant who once led the Brexit department. Philip Rycroft, who served as permanent secretary of the Department for Exiting the EU, stated that the case for rejoining is compelling and that a clear-eyed assessment of national interests is necessary. However, he acknowledged that the path back to EU membership would be long and challenging.
Economic Impact of Brexit
Writing in the Times, Rycroft noted that most economic analyses indicate a significant hit to GDP from leaving the single market. While the precise figure and impact on exports to the EU and beyond are debatable, he argued that no one can credibly claim Brexit has delivered sustained economic growth. He highlighted that promises made by the Brexit campaign, including a comprehensive trade deal with the US, have not materialised.
Security and International Order
Rycroft also pointed to the crumbling post-war certainties that underpinned UK security, citing Russia's war in Europe and a disengaged America. He concluded that solidarity with European neighbours is essential for defence, making the case for rejoining the EU even stronger. He urged that it is time to start talking about rejoining and potentially knocking on the EU's door.
Political Context
Rycroft's comments align with growing sentiment within the Labour Party for a bolder approach to EU relations. Several cabinet ministers want Prime Minister Keir Starmer to push for a customs union or single market membership, though these remain red lines for the government. In January, Starmer indicated willingness to consider closer alignment with the single market if it serves the national interest.
Concerns for EU Citizens in the UK
At the European Parliament on Thursday, concerns were raised about EU citizens in the UK and British citizens in Europe post-Brexit. MEPs heard about children born to EU citizens in the UK who may not know they need settled status, potentially facing NHS charges or employment issues. Michal Meduna of the European Commission criticised the UK approach for leading to high healthcare charges for newborns.
The Home Office was also criticised for ending funding to charities helping vulnerable EU citizens with late settlement applications. The charity Settled reported receiving hundreds of weekly requests but no longer receives Home Office funding. Similarly, British in Europe, a coalition representing 1.2 million Britons in the EU, said it works on an unpaid volunteer basis and called on the UK government to fund support for British citizens living in the EU.
The UK government defended its decision, noting that £32m has been spent since 2019 on such charities. Aliza Dee from the Cabinet Office stated that with fewer applications being made, it was the right time to end that funding, but alternative support exists through the settlement scheme resolution centre.
