Burnham Says EU Ties Could Change After the Next Election

Prime Minister Andy Burnham wants to debate with the British public whether free movement with the European Union should return, as he pursues a new relationship with the bloc.

Burnham told the Sunday Times that any change to the relationship must wait until after a general election expected by 2029, because Labour's 2024 manifesto ruled out free movement, single market membership and a customs union. Options he has discussed include joining the single market, which would require free movement, or entering the customs union; both would mean accepting some EU rules. He said a new deal could mean the UK goes 'all the way' and rejoins the EU.

In the interview, Burnham said: 'I think you have to have a very factual, quite evidence-based debate about this.' He acknowledged that free movement 'had very significant challenges associated with it', but said European migration had changed over the past decade. He added: 'Revolving door migration where people would come and then go back is different.'

Burnham also pointed to reciprocal benefits for British citizens, particularly young people seeking to live in Europe. He is scheduled to meet EU leaders at a summit in Brussels on 20 November.

The prime minister has previously said a new agreement with Brussels could involve the UK rejoining the EU. Any fundamental shift in the relationship would need to follow an election, which is expected by 2029.

Labour's 2024 election manifesto ruled out free movement, single market membership and a customs union.