A Brussels-based journalist has dampened growing speculation that Britain could "change its mind" on EU membership even after Brexit is complete. 

This week, a number of leading voices in Brussels called on Britain to reconsider, including European Council head Donald Tusk and the European Commission chief Jean-Claude Juncker.

David Lidlington, Theresa May's newly appointed deputy, is one of the most senior officials to acknowledge these calls, claiming that Britain could return in 20 years time.

He explained that the question of returning to the fold in a reformed EU would be "something for future generations to consider".

However, Alex Barker, the Brussels bureau chief of the Financial Times, told the BBC's Politics Europe that the rejoining the EU would be too much to swallow for Britain post-Brexit.

He said: "You would have to follow the Article 49 procedure, an accession route for new countries.

"It's a pretty rough road, you’re looking at accepting the euro, not having the rebate. So it’s not a path the British would enjoy going down."

The UK has enjoyed controversial opt-outs as part of its membership, particularly on the Schengen free movement zone, the euro and security matters.

Britain also receives a £4 billion a year rebate from Brussels. 

Barker said that the only feasible way for Britain to stay inside the EU would be to signal a dramatic reversal before October this year when Brexit talks are set to end. 

Speaking at the European Parliament in Strasbourg this week, Mr Tusk said that Europeans’ "hearts are still open to our British friends" to remain in the bloc.

Mr Juncker added: "President Tusk also made some comments on Brexit, he said that our door remains open. I hope that will be heard clearly in London."