Brexit Negotiators: UK’s EU Re-entry Won’t Be ‘Tailor-Made’

Britain's potential return to the European Union (EU) is a hot topic among senior Labour politicians, but former Brexit negotiators have a clear message: no special treatment. These veterans of the Brexit negotiations warn that while the UK may receive a warm welcome, it won't be offered the same 'tailor-made' deal it once enjoyed.

Georg Riekeles, a former adviser on the EU's Brexit taskforce, predicts a 'very warm, welcoming' stance from member states, but also a 'hard-headed' approach. He emphasizes that the EU is unlikely to reopen negotiations for British exceptionalism, and the price of re-entry would be standard membership terms.

During its 47-year membership, the UK secured an unprecedented special status, including opt-outs from the single currency and Schengen zone, as well as a budget rebate. This unique arrangement is not expected to be replicated, according to Sandro Gozi, Italy's former Europe minister. Gozi, now an MEP, believes the UK should expect standard terms in any re-entry negotiations, marking a significant shift from its previous position.

The prospect of the UK rejoining the EU has sparked debate within the Labour party, with Wes Streeting advocating for re-entry and Andy Burnham expressing a desire for Britain to rejoin within his lifetime. However, Burnham clarified that he would not push for this if he became prime minister in the short term.

Gozi acknowledges that Brexit has been a loss for both the UK and the EU, but he sees a potential British application as a victory for the EU's political model. He suggests that the UK has other options, such as associating with the single market or participating in a proposed European security council, but the decision lies with the UK to determine its future path.

Poland's foreign minister, Radosław Sikorski, echoes the sentiment that the UK should not expect its previous 'à la carte' membership. He emphasizes the need for British elites to embrace the fundamental European deal of shared sovereignty for shared benefits.

Riekeles, now at the European Policy Centre, highlights the importance of a durable national consensus in the UK before any formal re-entry process. He reflects on the challenges of dealing with a UK that seeks integration benefits while maintaining a separatist political stance.

As the EU and UK prepare for a summit in July, the focus is on closer cooperation in various areas, rather than speculating about the UK's potential return. The EU's chief spokesperson, Paula Pinho, declined to comment on negotiating terms, keeping the conversation centered on practical collaboration.