Former British politician Michael Hezeltaine stated that the possibility of Britain rejoining the European Union should be seriously discussed. Hezeltaine claimed that those who supported Brexit made misleading promises to voters.
He based this assessment on polls showing growing support in the country for strengthening relations with Europe. This situation has brought the political and social debates that emerged after Brexit back into focus.
Post-Brexit Situation Back on the Agenda
Brexit officially took effect on January 31, 2020, with a transition period lasting until the end of that year. The decision for Britain to leave the European Union was made in a referendum held in June 2016; approximately 17.4 million voters, or 51.9% of participants, voted in favor of leaving.
In May 2026, the Brexit debate flared up again when former Health Secretary Wes Streeting described the process as "a terrible mistake" and advocated for Britain to return to the European Union. Hezeltaine's remarks have added a new chapter to this ongoing discussion.
Polls Indicate a Trend Toward Closer Ties with Europe
A YouGov survey conducted in April 2026 found that 63% of Britons want to strengthen ties with the European Union. In the same survey, 55% expressed support for direct re-entry into the EU.
These figures show that despite the years since Brexit, relations with Europe remain a strong topic of debate within society. Hezeltaine's comments reflect this shifting public opinion.
Hezeltaine argued that the promises made during the referendum process were quickly broken and emphasized the need to reassess Britain's relationship with Europe. This approach has once again brought discussions about the economic and political consequences of Brexit to the forefront.
Although there is no definitive political shift regarding the future of Brexit in Britain, recent statements and polls keep the question of how the country will redefine its ties with Europe very much alive.
