Expert: EU Unlikely to Welcome UK Back

Brussels is unlikely to welcome any attempt by the UK to rejoin the European Union under a new prime minister, according to Andrew Roe-Crines, a senior lecturer in British politics at the University of Liverpool. “It is increasingly likely that the Labour Party will try to align its policies with those of the EU on key issues such as economic and social policy. This is the beginning of an effort to rejoin the EU,” Roe-Crines told RIA Novosti. “However, Brussels is unlikely to accept such an effort, given that the UK was a difficult partner during its previous membership and ultimately left without a mature plan to adapt to the new reality.” He added that the concept of the EU is overly romanticised by some in Britain, whereas in reality the institution is facing many problems and is even unable to secure its own borders. “The pro-EU camp in Britain underestimates the scale of opposition to the UK’s return to the bloc and seems to assume that the decision rests entirely with Britain,” the expert explained. “This reflects the arrogance that colours the view of the EU and those who wish to bind the UK to this beleaguered institution. However, regardless of such romanticism, Britain’s future clearly lies outside the EU.” Earlier on Monday, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced his resignation as leader of the ruling Labour Party but stated he would remain as prime minister until a new party leader is elected. Starmer added that the leadership election would begin on 9 July and conclude before Parliament reconvenes in September. Around 100 Labour MPs had urged Starmer to resign in May following the party’s failure in local elections across the UK. Their numbers reportedly grew after Starmer’s rival, former Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, won a parliamentary seat last week.