Andy Burnham is open to a debate about restoring freedom of movement between the UK and the European Union. According to the BBC, the prime minister has called for a practical, evidence-based discussion about a new relationship with Brussels. His remarks do not, however, amount to an announcement that borders will be opened or immigration rules changed.
In a report published on 25 October, the BBC outlined comments Burnham made to the Sunday Times. The broadcaster said he was willing to consider EU or single market membership — participation in the shared economic area whose rules include freedom of movement. At this stage, he is discussing possible directions for policy, rather than an arrangement agreed with the EU.
A debate, not a change in the law
That marks a significant distinction from the earlier position described by the BBC. Burnham had expressed his commitment to Labour’s 2024 election manifesto, which ruled out a return to freedom of movement, single market membership and a customs union. He had also made fundamental changes to relations with the EU conditional on securing a mandate at a general election.
In his latest comments, he also set limits on his openness to change: he could not see himself recommending arrangements that would mean adopting the euro or joining the Schengen area, where routine checks at internal borders have been removed. Freedom of movement and Schengen membership are separate issues.
Burnham argued that migration during Britain’s EU membership had been different in character from migration today, pointing to people who came for a few years before returning to their home countries. That is the politician’s assessment; the BBC report does not present a statistical analysis against which to judge it.
Conservatives and Reform UK oppose the prospect
Chris Philp, the shadow home secretary — the opposition counterpart to the home secretary — opposed the prospect of restoring freedom of movement, citing the result of the 2016 referendum. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage accused Burnham of betraying voters who supported Brexit.
For anyone planning to move or work across the Channel, the crucial distinction is between political discussion and the law currently in force. These remarks do not restore freedom of movement. No detailed proposal for new immigration rules or timetable agreed with the EU has been presented.
