Britain should reopen the question of EU membership after Brexit failed to deliver its promised gains, according to the former top civil servant who oversaw the exit. Philip Rycroft has warned that the country must confront the economic and political fallout head-on, even as ministers insist the debate is settled.

‘Sunny Uplands’ Nowhere in Sight

Writing in The Times, Rycroft said the Leave campaign’s “heady promises” had not materialised, urging a “clear-headed appraisal” of Britain’s future. He pointed to mounting economic evidence that leaving the single market has dented GDP and export performance.

“The argument is there to be won,” he added, though he cautioned any path back into the EU would be “long and windy” — a signal that political resistance remains entrenched.

Government Holds the Line — For Now

Downing Street has publicly shut down any shift. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has ruled out rejoining the single market or customs union, maintaining firm “red lines” despite growing pressure behind the scenes.

Yet reports suggest senior figures are quietly pushing for a rethink before the next general election — a sign that Brexit’s legacy is far from settled at Westminster.

Public Mood Turns, Pressure Builds

Recent polling by YouGov for Best for Britain indicates a shift in public sentiment: 53% now favour rejoining the EU, compared with 32% opposed.

Rycroft said it was “not hard to see” why support is softening, citing ongoing struggles over immigration policy and stagnant growth — two pillars of the original Leave campaign.

No Way Back — Or Just Not Yet?

Europe minister Nick Thomas-Symonds insists there is “no appetite” to reopen the divisive battles of Brexit, even as the government seeks closer cooperation with Brussels in a more volatile world.

But with economic pressures mounting and public opinion shifting, the political cost of holding the line may only grow — leaving the question of Britain’s European future unresolved, and increasingly urgent.

Ex-Brexit boss says Britain should rejoin EU after 'failed promises'

Can’t see it happening ,the EU will demand billions in monthly payments ,which is needed right now