UK Prime Minister Burnham open to EU free movement talks
UK PM Burnham wants to discuss EU free movement. He aims to reset ties with Brussels.
UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham took office two months ago after replacing Keir Starmer. Burnham told the Sunday Times he wants to discuss EU free movement of workers.
Freedom of movement was a key issue in the 2016 Brexit referendum. Burnham admitted that EU migration before Brexit created problems.
But this was different from today's permanent immigration. Long-term migration in 2025 has fallen back to pre-2021 levels.
The balance of immigration has also shifted. Burnham sees free movement as part of a wider reset of Britain's EU relationship.
This includes data sharing and other policies. He said he could not imagine recommending the euro or Schengen border-free travel.
A new referendum would be needed to rejoin the EU fully. But one would not necessarily be needed to join the single market or customs union.
Burnham is set to meet with top EU officials for a summit on November 20.
- two months
- Time as PM
- fell to close to pre-2021 levels
- Migration level in 2025
- November 20
- EU summit date
- rejoin EU fully
- Referendum needed for
Why it mattersIf Britain eases its toughest post-Brexit immigration stance, it shows a possible change toward closer EU ties. This could reshape Britain's political debate about its place in Europe.
AustraliaNo direct Australian impact, though closer UK-EU ties could affect trade relationships and the broader rules-based order that Australia depends on.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
Open this story in InSnip →
