UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham Leaves Door Open to EU Free Movement Debate

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has left the door open to a potential referendum on restoring freedom of movement with the European Union. When broadcasters asked if he could bring back free movement without a vote, Burnham said no, though sources told the BBC that no final decision has been made on the matter. He stated that he would never move ahead of the British public on Brexit issues.

Future Options

Burnham has ruled out making any major changes to the UK's relationship with the EU before the next general election, but he wants to start a public conversation about future options. These options are expected to be outlined around the time of the EU summit next month. Potential future paths could range from keeping things as they are, to rejoining the EU customs union or single market, or even holding a new in-out referendum on full EU membership. However, Burnham stated he cannot see himself ever recommending that the country adopt the euro currency or join the Schengen passport-free travel area.

Reactions

The prime minister's deputy spokesperson clarified that Burnham is not currently proposing a return to freedom of movement, but believes the existing Brexit deal falls short. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch argued that most people voted for Brexit precisely to end free movement. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage called a potential return a total betrayal of Brexit Britain and said the prime minister is entirely unclear on the question of another referendum. Conversely, the Liberal Democrats argued that allowing freedom of movement would help boost economic growth.

Context

Freedom of movement allows citizens to travel, live, study, and work freely across member countries, and it serves as a strict requirement for joining the EU single market. The UK officially left the European Union following the 2016 Brexit referendum, a vote heavily centered on questions of national borders and migration control.