Burnham seeks UK access to EU industry rules ahead of reset talks
The British prime minister argued that Chinese imports posed a shared challenge, while access to the EU’s Made in Europe initiative remains unresolved.
British Prime Minister Andy Burnham pressed for UK manufacturers to be covered by the EU’s planned Made in Europe rules during meetings with European leaders in Dublin on 12 November 2026. He said an agreement on resetting relations with the bloc had not yet been reached.
Speaking to reporters at the European Political Community summit, Burnham argued that Britain and the EU faced a common challenge from Chinese imports and should address it together. He wants British manufacturers to benefit from proposals giving preferential treatment to European industry.
Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds and Brexit Minister Hamish Falconer also visited Brussels to seek assurances about Britain’s inclusion in the planned legislation. The rules risk excluding UK manufacturers from important European supply chains.
Burnham met European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen as part of his efforts to secure support for closer relations. Afterwards, he said Britain was committed to deeper ties but was awaiting the EU’s response.
The forthcoming negotiations are expected to address an agri-food accord, a connection between the British and EU emissions trading systems, and youth mobility. Unresolved issues include the terms of a mobility arrangement, participation in Made in Europe and a possible cut in tuition fees for EU students at British universities.
