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Andy Burnham has made it clear that there is no ambiguity about his stance on the European Union, despite his criticisms of the current UK-EU arrangement. Speaking ahead of the upcoming Brussels summit, he emphasized that it is his duty as prime minister to seek improvements to the deal that was agreed upon in 2020.
Burnham firmly denied claims that he had altered his position since the Makerfield by-election, where he pledged not to reopen the Brexit debate. Earlier in the week, he hinted at the possibility of holding a referendum on reinstating the UK’s participation in EU freedom of movement, though this suggestion was quickly clarified by officials at No 10.
During Prime Minister’s Questions, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch challenged Burnham, accusing him of disrespecting the 2016 Brexit referendum outcome. Badenoch suggested that Burnham’s remarks had caused confusion, questioning whether he genuinely wanted a vote on the UK rejoining the EU. In response, Burnham reassured MPs that there was no confusion and stated that the government’s agreed collective position remains consistent with his previous statements, including those made during the by-election. He also confirmed that key manifesto commitments, such as the stance on freedom of movement, would be upheld throughout the parliamentary term.
Labour’s manifesto for the 2024 election explicitly ruled out a return to free movement, membership of the single market, or joining a customs union. Freedom of movement, which permits EU citizens to live, work, study, and travel freely within member states, is a fundamental element of the EU single market that facilitates the free exchange of goods, services, and people. Badenoch criticized Burnham’s comments about freedom of movement, saying he had “opened his mouth without engaging his brain,” particularly as the government prepared to announce the Budget during what she called “the chancellor’s big week.”
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