Macron, Sanchez welcome UK's potential return to EU

Burnham had previously suggested at Labour's conference that Brexit had caused "harm than good" and outlined options for repairing the damage, which could include rejoining the single market, the customs union, or the EU entirely. Macron praised Burnham's "boldness" in considering such a move.

However, the response from Brussels was more measured. A European Commission spokesperson noted that the UK is a "close and valued partner" and that it is up to the UK government to define its future relationship. Officials and diplomats in Brussels, speaking anonymously, indicated a positive underlying mood and a commitment to a productive upcoming UK-EU summit, though they stressed the need for concrete proposals from London. Some diplomats expressed concern that Burnham's shift could complicate ongoing negotiations on specific side-deals.

Sandro Gozi, who chairs the European Parliament's delegation to the UK, called for a "serious European response" to Burnham's proposal, suggesting it could lead to a closer partnership benefiting citizens and businesses.