Burnham wants ‘honest debate’ on free movement with EU – Farage: ‘betrayal’

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has opened a debate on a possible return to free movement with the European Union. “I think we just have to have an honest discussion about these things,” the Labour politician told The Sunday Times. What is needed, he said, is a “very sober,” fact-based debate. According to the report, rejoining the EU single market would require free movement. Burnham plans to set out his options around an EU summit in Brussels on Nov. 20, according to ITV.

At the same time, he drew limits: he could not imagine ever recommending anything “that would mean joining the euro or Schengen.” Burnham argued that in the past it was mainly young people who came for a few years and then went home – which differs from today’s migration. Fundamental changes are likely to be possible only after a general election, ITV said, because Labour’s 2024 manifesto ruled out a return to the single market, the customs union and free movement.

The opposition reacted sharply. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage called it a “total betrayal of Brexit Britain” and of Burnham’s campaign message in Makerfield. Conservative shadow home secretary Chris Philp said: “The British people voted to end free movement, and there can be no return to it.”