Burnham Links Iran to Air Base Incident; Downing Street Explores EU Rejoin Support

Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has suggested that the UK government possesses "strong indications" of Iranian involvement in an incident at RAF Fairford air base, though details remain undisclosed. In parallel, senior Downing Street officials are reportedly engaging with thinktanks and pollsters to gauge public appetite for the UK potentially rejoining the European Union, a move that has also garnered a positive reception from French President Emmanuel Macron. Macron, speaking alongside Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, welcomed the idea of the UK's return to the EU, stating it would be "very good news" for both nations and the continent.

The exploration of public sentiment towards rejoining the EU appears to be gaining traction, with aides to Andy Burnham reportedly consulting experts on how such a pledge might be received. This initiative coincides with Macron's public endorsement of the concept, signaling a potential shift in diplomatic discourse regarding the UK's relationship with the European bloc.