Bernd Lange, the head of the European Parliament’s international trade committee, recently stated that the United Kingdom could potentially re-enter the European Union through a 'Switzerland plus' deal. Lange, who played a significant role during the original Brexit negotiations, expressed a desire for the UK to return to the bloc, citing the country's historical influence in promoting open markets and democratic values. He suggested that such an agreement could be negotiated within months if there were a political decision to deepen ties.

The 'Switzerland plus' model typically implies a relationship characterized by high levels of regulatory alignment and the free movement of people. While Lange advocates for this path, the concept remains controversial within British politics. Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson famously rejected a Swiss-style arrangement during his tenure, specifically citing the requirements for free movement and adherence to EU regulations as incompatible with the goals of Brexit.

While Lange frames the potential return as a mutually beneficial move for EU decision-making, the feasibility of such a deal depends entirely on a shift in UK policy. Currently, there is no formal movement from the British government to pursue this specific framework, and the proposal serves more as an expression of interest from a European official than a concrete diplomatic offer.