Burnham Opens Door to 2029 Vote on Restoring Free Movement With EU

Britain's prime minister is preparing to raise the possibility of restoring free movement with the European Union, reopening a question his own party ruled out of its 2024 election platform.

In an interview with the Sunday Times, Andy Burnham said he wants an honest public conversation about what a deeper relationship with Brussels could include. "I think you have to have a very factual, quite evidence-based debate about this," he said. Burnham has previously said a new deal could mean the UK goes "all the way" and rejoins the EU. He has also discussed options such as joining the single market or the customs union, either of which would require accepting EU rules.

The prime minister has committed to Labour's 2024 manifesto red lines, which ruled out free movement, single market membership and customs union entry. Because of that commitment, any fundamental shift in ties with Brussels would likely have to wait until after a general election expected by 2029.

Burnham acknowledged that free movement "had very significant challenges associated with it," but said European migration has changed over the past decade. "Revolving door migration where people would come and then go back is different," he told the Sunday Times. He added that free movement offered reciprocal benefits for Britons, particularly young people seeking to live in Europe. Burnham is due to meet EU leaders at a summit in Brussels on 20 November.