Burnham opens debate on EU free movement but promises public vote

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has called for an “honest discussion” about restoring freedom of movement with the European Union as part of a broader reassessment of the UK’s post-Brexit relationship with the bloc.

Burnham told The Sunday Times that freedom of movement had created “very significant challenges” before Brexit, but argued that temporary migration from Europe, with workers often returning home, differed from more recent patterns. He said the issue should be considered alongside migration-data cooperation and the wider benefits once available to British citizens.

On Monday, Burnham said he would not restore EU freedom of movement without a referendum. He has also ruled out rejoining the EU during the current parliamentary term and said he could not envisage recommending adoption of the euro or joining the Schengen border-free travel area.

Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said UK officials were discussing possible long-term arrangements with the EU, while the immediate focus remained a November 20 summit expected to address trade restrictions, youth mobility, food and drink rules, and emissions trading. Reynolds said no decisions had been made and voters would determine any future settlement.

Burnham’s proposal drew mixed reactions within Labour. Housing Secretary Angela Rayner called his approach pragmatic, while some MPs representing Brexit-supporting constituencies urged caution. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch and Reform UK leader Nigel Farage criticised reopening the issue.

Official figures cited by several outlets show UK net migration fell to 171,000 in 2025, down from 331,000 a year earlier and below its level around the 2016 Brexit referendum.