- Michel Barnier, the European Union's former chief Brexit negotiator, stated that the UK could potentially rejoin the bloc with special terms, including opt-outs from adopting the euro and participating in the passport-free Schengen travel area.
- These remarks are considered a significant encouragement for those campaigning for the UK to rejoin the EU, especially as the tenth anniversary of the Brexit vote draws near.
- Barnier acknowledged that while Brexit might not be the sole cause of the UK's current difficulties, he is certain that these problems have been exacerbated by the decision to leave the EU.
- He dismissed the possibility of the UK achieving closer economic ties with the EU without accepting freedom of movement, citing a lack of political appetite within the bloc to grant such concessions.
- While confirming the feasibility of retaining opt-outs for the euro and Schengen, Barnier refrained from commenting on whether the UK could also keep the budget rebate secured by Margaret Thatcher, highlighting the EU's foundational principle of solidarity.
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