Burnham says UK-EU migration vote must wait for 2029 election
The prime minister plans to meet EU leaders in Brussels next month while arguing that a public debate on free movement needs a fresh mandate.
By Bianca Shevchenko ·
UK-EU free movement cannot be voted on before the next general election, Prime Minister Andy Burnham said on Friday.
Burnham has long signaled a shift in Britain's ties with Brussels. He has discussed options ranging from full EU membership to joining the single market or customs union. All three paths require accepting some level of free movement.
Labour's 2024 manifesto explicitly ruled out these options. That commitment creates a barrier to immediate change. The next general election is expected by 2029, meaning any fundamental shift in the relationship is likely to wait until then.
In an interview with the Sunday Times, Burnham called for a factual and evidence-based debate. He acknowledged that free movement carries significant challenges but noted that European migration patterns have shifted over the last ten years.
"Revolving door migration where people would come and then go back is different," he told the paper. He also highlighted reciprocal benefits for young Britons who wish to live in Europe.
Burnham is scheduled to meet EU chiefs at a summit in Brussels on 20 November.
Source: The Guardian
