Skip to contentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload our appAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleWant to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Membership today.Join todayAlready a member? Log inMillie CookeThursday 29 October 2026 13:07 GMTBurnham told to rejoin EU customs union and single market to boost growthAndy Burnham and Chancellor John Healey appear divided on Brexit after the prime minister reopened debate on Britain's relationship with the European Union.The prime minister argued that Brexit has “weakened our economy” and suggested a future referendum on rejoining the EU or restoring freedom of movement could be considered.John Healey rejected claims that growth would automatically be stronger inside the EU single market, stressing the need to build resilience in the current economy, saying: “We had a referendum. We’re out of the European Union.”During Prime Minister's Questions, Mr Burnham defended his approach and insisted the government is united in securing a better Brexit deal to support British industry.The prime minister is scheduled to meet EU leaders in Brussels next month to negotiate agreements on youth mobility, emissions trading, and food standards.In fullChancellor and Burnham at odds over Brexit: ‘We had a referendum’More bulletinsThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in