EU could allow UK to stay outside euro and Schengen if it seeks to rejoin

Brussels could allow Britain to remain outside the eurozone and the Schengen area if it sought to rejoin the European Union, two EU officials familiar with the bloc’s approach told POLITICO.

The officials said the EU would consider the UK’s specific circumstances during negotiations, suggesting membership would not automatically require adoption of the single currency or passport-free travel zone. Such flexibility could strengthen the prospects of rejoining, amid concerns that Britain would face pressure to accept deeper integration than under its previous membership.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has criticised Brexit and suggested EU membership could feature in Labour’s next election manifesto. However, the EU has no formal position on a British application, which has not been submitted.

A YouGov poll found 55% of Britons wanted to reverse Brexit, compared with 34% who favoured remaining outside the bloc. Support fell to 35% if joining the euro and Schengen were required, while 43% opposed those conditions.

The UK previously secured opt-outs from both arrangements, while newer member states have committed to moving towards them.