Understand
French finance minister invites UK to rejoin the EU as Prime Minister Andy Burnham raises Brexit referendum possibility
Overview
French finance minister Roland Lescure has invited Britain to return to the European Union following comments from Prime Minister Andy Burnham suggesting a future Brexit referendum could be possible. Lescure stated that the UK would be welcomed back at any time and could participate directly in discussions regarding EU regulations and industry schemes. The interview also covered domestic French issues, including student protests over school conditions, proposed adjustments to health and pension spending to rebalance the budget, and addressing France's alarming public deficit.
Key points
- French finance minister Roland Lescure told the BBC that Britain is welcome to 'come all the way' back to the EU.
- The comments follow remarks by Prime Minister Andy Burnham indicating that a second Brexit referendum is 'possible' in a future Labour manifesto.
- Lescure noted that if the UK rejoined, it would be 'at the table' to discuss issues such as planned EU rules affecting British industry and supply chains.
- The finance minister addressed French student protests affecting over 500 schools, stating that leaders have a duty to listen to anxious young people.
- Lescure announced plans to cut health spending and limit pension increases to fund investment in education and address France's alarming public deficit of over 5% of GDP.