Bernd Lange proposes ‘Switzerland plus’ route for UK to rejoin EU

Summary

Bernd Lange, who was involved in Brexit talks, says the UK could re-enter the EU through a “Switzerland plus” package that could be negotiated within months of a decision to deepen ties. Lange said he would like to see the UK back and that the EU missed its role in decision-making. Euronews reports his comments came as the Brexit debate reignited after Prime Minister Andy Burnham called for the UK to readdress its relationship with Brussels.

Timeline

1. The Guardian

   16 Oct 2026, 07:00 UTCSource ↗

   The Guardian reports that Bernd Lange says a “Switzerland plus” deal for the UK to re-enter the EU could be negotiated within months of a decision to deepen ties; Lange also said the EU missed the UK’s influence in decision-making.

2. Euronews

   16 Oct 2026, 10:34 UTCSource ↗

   Euronews reports that Lange’s comments came as the Brexit debate reignited after Prime Minister Andy Burnham called for the UK to readdress its relationship with Brussels.