U.K. Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch has strongly opposed Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s suggestion to reopen the debate on Brexit, calling it a “terrible idea.”

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Speaking at the conclusion of the Conservative Party’s annual conference in Birmingham, Badenoch warned against reigniting divisions that consumed Britain during the years leading up to its departure from the European Union. “Can you imagine having to go through that again? So much time lost arguing with ourselves, arguing with the EU, going round and round in circles… I think that is a terrible idea,” she said.

Her remarks came days after Burnham suggested Britain should reconsider its long‑term relationship with the EU, even hinting that rejoining could be an option. Badenoch’s sharp rebuttal underscores the deep political fault lines that remain over Brexit, despite the U.K. having formally left the bloc years ago.

Analysts say Badenoch’s stance reflects Conservative efforts to rally their base by defending Brexit as settled policy, while Burnham’s comments highlight Labour’s push to explore closer ties with Europe. The clash sets the stage for renewed debate over Britain’s economic future, sovereignty, and global positioning.

For many voters, the prospect of reopening Brexit evokes memories of years of political turmoil, making Badenoch’s warning resonate strongly with those wary of revisiting the past.