EU's door open to UK, but 'cannot cherry-pick' policies: Barnier

Key facts

• The European Union's door remains open to the United Kingdom.
• The UK cannot selectively adopt EU policies.
• A fast-tracked process for closer ties or rejoining is possible.
• Minimal divergence from EU regulations could facilitate a fast-tracked process.
• The EU does not permit 'cherry-picking' of its policies.

Michel Barnier, the former EU Brexit negotiator, has indicated that the European Union's door remains open to the United Kingdom. However, Barnier emphasized that the UK cannot selectively adopt EU policies if it seeks to deepen its relationship with the bloc or potentially rejoin. He suggested that a fast-tracked process for closer integration or rejoining could be feasible, provided that the divergence between UK and EU regulations is minimal. Barnier's remarks highlight the EU's stance that any future relationship or potential return would require adherence to the bloc's established policies, without the ability for the UK to 'cherry-pick' specific regulations or benefits.