Andy Burnham warned UK facing 'economic disaster' over huge EU mistake

Andy Burnham warned UK facing 'economic disaster' over huge EU mistake A leading champion of family businesses brands the Government's EU push a 'weapon of distraction' to cover Labour's lack of leadership and economic growth Share Article Share Article Facebook X LinkedIn Reddit Bluesky Email Copy Link Link copied Add us as preferred source Comments By David Williamson , Chief Political Commentator 15:45, Sat, Oct 24, 2026 Updated: 15:59, Sat, Oct 24, 2026 Andy Burnham has been warned against pushing the UK back into the EU (Image: POOL/AFP via Getty Images) Britain faces “economic disaster” and the death of the family business if Labour continues to pursue “anti-growth” policies, the chairman of the Independent Business Network (IBN) has warned. John Longworth , writing in a Budget submission, urges a radical change of course and makes the case that rejoining the European Union – a long-term possibility floated by Andy Burnham – would be “insanity”. In a damning assessment of Labour’s record in power, he said: “There appears to be a blind attachment in the corridors of power to tax and spend, and to ideological policies such as net zero, the direct attack on property ownership and inheritance, and welfare profligacy. A continuation of this approach risks economic disaster and the demise of family businesses. Rather than address the real issues of government policy and the economy, the Prime Minister has chosen instead to pursue rejoining the European Union , raising false hope that this would solve Britain’s problems. It would introduce years of uncertainty and conflict. Quite apart from the enormous cost of such a policy, tying the UK to a failing economic model would be most unlikely to boost our fortunes. It is such insanity that the only rational explanation is that it is a ‘weapon of distraction’, designed to divert attention from the absence of both leadership and economic growth that besets our government.” Article continues below ADVERTISEMENT The IBN is calling for a reversal of the hike in employers’ National Insurance introduced by then-Chancellor Rachel Reeves as well as the preservation of zero hours contracts. It states in its submission to the Treasury: “For family businesses, flexible hiring can create an entry point into employment. A restaurant owner who needs help on busy weekends may be willing to train an inexperienced local applicant for a small number of shifts. If trade grows, that person may gain more hours and eventually move into a regular role.” Get the latest politics news - straight from our team in Westminster and more I would like to receive emails from the Daily Express featuring our latest products, services, offers, and promotions from across the Reach Plc family . Subscribe Invalid email You agree you are 18 or over. We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and third parties based on our knowledge of you. You can unsubscribe at any time. More Info . John Longworth is a former director-general of the British Chambers of Commerce (Image: Jonathan Buckmaster) Alongside VAT reforms, it is calling for loans for young entrepreneurs. “Britain should give young people a fair chance to turn skill and initiative into a business, whether or not their families can write the first cheque,” the IBN states. Brendan Chilton, the organisation’s chief executive, said: “We believe that family-owned and family-run businesses must have a greater voice in public policy and can thrive outside the EU. One of the primary reasons for leaving the European Union was to ensure that we had the ability to create the most dynamic and competitive environment for businesses and start-ups. We also left the European Union so that we could embark on our own trade deals, securing advantages for British businesses, access to new markets and flexibility to help with the cost of living . We must not reverse that decision, and the Independent Business Network will fight for our sovereignty and for maintaining our independence outside the EU.” Article continues below ADVERTISEMENT The 9 items Brits must stockpile after new warning Pensioners are furious at this 'sneaky' Budget move that will leave them much poorer Andy Burnham EU Referendum Recession Share Article Share Article Facebook X LinkedIn Reddit Bluesky Email Copy Link Link copied Add us as preferred source Comments