The Brexit debate, once a dominant force in British politics, is resurfacing as Prime Minister Andy Burnham signals a shift in his government's approach. After years of intense focus on the UK's departure from the European Union, a period that saw referendums, negotiations, and two general elections, there had been a widespread desire to move on to other issues.

This sentiment was reflected in political parties' reluctance to engage deeply with the topic, despite underlying instincts. However, Prime Minister Burnham has now actively chosen to revisit the subject, challenging the post-Brexit status quo and asserting that it is not serving Britain well. This marks a departure from his previous stance, as he had indicated a desire to focus elsewhere just months before taking office.

Burnham's strategy appears to be two-pronged. In the immediate future, he aims to strengthen the UK's relationship with the EU, with plans to attend a summit in Brussels at the end of next month. He maintains that this deepening of ties will remain within the parameters set by Labour at the last general election, which excluded rejoining the customs union, single market, or reintroducing freedom of movement.

The second, medium-term aspect of his approach concerns what Labour might propose in its next general election manifesto. The Prime Minister indicated a fortnight ago that the manifesto could include the possibility of a referendum on EU membership. In a recent parliamentary session, he sought to reassure the public, stating that the country needs clarity on its future direction over the next decade and that the British people will ultimately decide any outcomes.

Critics, however, question the necessity of revisiting a decision made by voters a decade ago. Lord Frost, a former Brexit minister and chief negotiator, argued in The Telegraph that politicians should defend the decision made by the electorate. He believes the public deserves to see the arguments defended.

The upcoming five weeks, leading up to a UK-EU Summit in Brussels on November 20th, will focus on what Downing Street perceives as achievable short-term gains. These include potential advancements in areas such as youth mobility, food and drink trade, and energy cooperation.

Prime Minister Burnham hopes to frame this closer relationship with Brussels as a pragmatic step that could contribute to reducing illegal immigration and stimulating economic growth. His administration is positioning these potential agreements as sensible adjustments rather than a fundamental shift in the UK's post-Brexit orientation.

Despite the Prime Minister's efforts to reassure the public and frame these discussions as pragmatic, the re-emergence of the Brexit topic is likely to reignite passionate debate among those who supported leaving the EU and those who favoured remaining. The implications of these upcoming negotiations and potential future referendums remain a significant point of discussion.