UK leader stresses need for closer ties with EU to counter Russia

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham said Russia's attempts to meddle in European politics show why the UK must forge a closer relationship with the European Union.

Burnham also said a suspected plot targeting the RAF Fairford air base in Britain was "highly likely" to have been coordinated in Iran, and almost certainly directed by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham said attempts by Russia to interfere in democratic votes across Europe, highlight the importance of strengthening his country's ties with its neighbours, years after they were weakened by Brexit.

Mr. Speaker, it is in Britain's interest to secure a deal along these lines, and I will work hard over the next five weeks to achieve it.

I believe our chances of doing so will be enhanced by being open to a discussion about our relationship with the EU in the longer term.

If we are serious, if we are serious about promoting growth, controlling immigration, upholding our values and security, it is a conversation we must have.

Sticking with the status quo is not good enough for Britain.

Worse, it would be a major dereliction of duty to turn away.

It is a matter of record, Mr. Speaker, that Russian actors sought to interfere in the 2019 general election, and we think it is inconceivable that this was the first time.

The statement comes after the UK and the EU announced they will hold a summit in Brussels on November 20th as a step toward strengthening ties.

Burnham said the two sides will discuss a trade deal for food and drink, agreements on energy and emissions trading, a new youth experience scheme and deeper co-operation on immigration.

Burnham remains bound by the pledge of his Labour predecessor, Keir Starmer, not to rejoin the bloc's frictionless single market or its customs union.

That could change in campaigning for the next national election, which must be held by 2029.

Burnham also said a suspected plot to attack a US-run military air base in England was "almost certainly" directed by Iran's Revolutionary Guard.

Burnham previously said there are strong indications Iran was linked to the apparent plan last month to attack the RAF Fairford air base, which has been used by American bombers to strike Iran in the ongoing war.

Iran has denied involvement, although it has previously said that it considers any base used to attack its territory a legitimate target.