Call to Rejoin the EU
Philip Rycroft, the former permanent secretary of the Department for Exiting the European Union, has advocated for Britain to initiate discussions about rejoining the EU. He emphasized the need for a "clear-headed appraisal of what is in the country’s best interests" and acknowledged that the process of rejoining could be "long and windy."
Rycroft highlighted the economic consequences of Brexit, stating that most analyses indicate a significant reduction in GDP due to leaving the single market. He noted that while the exact figures and impact on exports may be debated, it is undeniable that the UK has not experienced sustained economic growth as a result of Brexit.
Economic and Political Realities
In his commentary, Rycroft pointed out that the promises made during the Brexit campaign, ranging from economic benefits to immigration control, have not materialized as expected. He described the prospect of a comprehensive trade deal with the United States as "an impossible dream."
He further discussed the shifting geopolitical landscape, remarking on the erosion of postwar security certainties. With ongoing conflict in Europe caused by Russia and a less engaged United States, Rycroft stressed the importance of solidarity with European neighbours to ensure national defence.
“The argument is there to be won. It is time to talk about rejoining. It might be time to knock on the EU’s door.”
Political Context and Party Perspectives
Rycroft’s views align with a growing sentiment within the Labour Party advocating for a closer relationship with the EU or eventual reentry. Several cabinet ministers have urged leader Keir Starmer to adopt a stronger stance on joining a customs union or the single market, although these remain sensitive issues for the government.
Earlier in January, the prime minister expressed openness to "even closer alignment" with the single market, considering it preferable to a customs union. He stated, "If it’s in our national interest … then we should consider that, we should go that far."
Concerns Over Citizens’ Rights Post-Brexit
At a European Parliament session on Thursday, concerns were raised about the rights of EU citizens residing in the UK and British citizens living in Europe following Brexit. Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) discussed issues affecting children born to EU citizens in the UK who were unaware of the need to apply for settled status.
These children may face NHS charges or difficulties with employment in the future, according to testimonies. A senior official from the European Commission’s post-withdrawal agreement unit remarked, "The UK approach has significant consequences for newborn children, resulting in very high healthcare charges."
The Home Office faced criticism during the hearing for discontinuing funding to charities that assist vulnerable EU citizens with late settlement applications.
Charitable Support and Funding Challenges
One such charity, Settled, reported that it receives "hundreds of requests for advice every week" but no longer benefits from Home Office funding. Additionally, British in Europe, a grassroots coalition representing approximately 1.2 million British nationals living across 27 EU countries, informed the parliament that it receives no UK government funding.
Despite being a key interlocutor with the European Commission on Brexit matters, British in Europe’s leaders, Fiona Godfrey and Jane Golding, currently work without pay.
“We are all here as volunteers,” they said. “We would call on the British government also to fund the work that is needed to be done, for the support of British citizens living in the EU, because, that has not been forthcoming.”
