A renewed push for Britain to rejoin the European Union is gaining momentum as a petition, launched by pro-EU advocate Robert McMaster, collects tens of thousands of signatures.

With over 35,000 signatures amassed within three weeks, the petition is set to prompt a response from the government. At 100,000 signatures, it would likely be considered for parliamentary debate.

The petition’s message is clear: the UK should “apply to join the EU as full members as soon as possible.” McMaster argues that such a move would “boost the economy, increase global influence, improve collaboration, and provide stability and freedom.”

He emphasized, “Brexit hasn’t brought any tangible benefit and there is no future prospect of any. The UK has changed its mind and that should be recognized.”

Pressure Builds Amid Political Divides

Scottish National Party (SNP) MP Stephen Gethins supported the petition, criticizing both major political parties for their reluctance to address EU membership. “It is so good to see members of the public leading the charge on ensuring that we open up the debate on rejoin,” Gethins said.

He added, “Leaving the EU has left us poorer, less secure, and taken away opportunities from young people and small businesses alike.” He called on the government to engage in a discussion on the UK’s relationship with the EU, highlighting the potential benefits of rejoining or at least considering membership in the single market and customs union.

Dr. Mike Galsworthy, chair of European Movement UK, urged the government to face reality. “Everyone knows we are in a new era now, and it is time to put aside the conspiracies of silence on the obvious issues leaving the EU has caused for our country,” Galsworthy remarked.

He criticized past efforts to stifle debate on Brexit’s impact, asserting, “These conversations are already being had by the people of this country. They need to be had in parliament too.”

However, the push for EU membership has met resistance. Stuart Coster, founder of the pro-Brexit Democracy Movement, accused campaigners of disregarding the referendum’s outcome. “Millions of voters in July’s general election backed parties that pledged not to hand law-making back to the EU,” Coster noted. “It seems some hardline Remainers are still having trouble respecting democracy.”

Starmer’s Approach Under Scrutiny

Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who has been navigating a diplomatic reset with the EU since taking office, finds himself at the center of this renewed debate.

While aiming to mend ties strained under previous Conservative leadership, Starmer has remained firm on key Brexit lines, including ruling out rejoining the single market or customs union. This stance has disappointed many pro-EU campaigners eager for deeper engagement with Brussels.

The recent re-election of former US President Donald Trump has intensified calls for Starmer to accelerate his policy shifts.

Trump’s economic adviser, Stephen Moore, recently warned that the UK must choose between stronger ties with the EU or face potential tariffs across the Atlantic if it does not secure a trade deal with the US.

Amid this pressure, Green Party MP Caroline Lucas, newly appointed joint president of European Movement UK, pointed to Trump’s return as a pivotal moment.

“The prospect of Donald Trump in the White House should focus minds on the importance of being guided by our values, and on urgently rebuilding our relationship with the EU as the best way to ensure economic security and climate resilience.”
Caroline Lucas

In recent weeks, Starmer’s commitment to EU dialogue has come under question. He notably refrained from backing a priority set by Brussels: the creation of a youth visa for under-30s to allow free travel for young people. This decision has drawn criticism from those who view the policy as vital for fostering opportunities for the younger generation.

While Starmer’s careful recalibration of the UK’s post-Brexit path continues, the growing support for the petition to rejoin the EU highlights a persistent public interest in revisiting the decision.