Chaos in Burnham’s Brexit bid over free movement referendum
Chaos erupted in Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s proposal regarding Brexit on Tuesday as No10 retreated from its earlier commitment to hold a referendum on reintroducing free movement, reports BritPanorama.
Earlier in the day, Burnham indicated that the UK would not be reinstated to the EU’s visa-free arrangement without consulting the public through a vote. However, shortly thereafter, his spokesperson clarified that the “process” of approaching Brussels had not been determined, asserting, “We are not talking about a referendum.”
The turmoil follows Burnham suggesting that adopting the EU’s freedom of movement could form part of a broader renegotiation with the bloc, potentially granting 450 million EU citizens the unrestricted right to live and work in the UK.
This issue remains one of the key “red lines” in the Labour Party manifesto, which also includes rejoining the customs union and single market within this parliamentary term. Despite the potential changes, many Labour Party members maintain strong reservations about ceding control over immigration.
During an appearance on ITV’s Good Morning Britain, Burnham was directly asked whether he would reinstate free movement without a referendum. He responded negatively, stating, “Yesterday, I was asked about how things have changed in the ten years since Brexit, and the truth of the matter is we’ve lost immigration control in the way that we once had.”
Burnham did express a desire to see the UK rejoin the EU in his lifetime, cautioning that he would not impose his views ahead of public opinion. This follows his remarks during the summer’s Makerfield by-election, where he stated he did not wish to “re-run” the Brexit arguments.
The Makerfield constituency, which voted heavily to leave the EU in the 2016 referendum, has seen discontent among constituents, particularly in light of the Prime Minister’s recent comments. Tory representative Alex Burghart criticized Burnham, stating, “The PM’s remarks are proof that he has completely abandoned the people of Makerfield. Rejoining the EU will not cut the ballooning welfare bill, fund our Armed Forces or help control immigration.”
In the midst of this political upheaval, Burnham has also connected the small boats crisis to Brexit, asserting that the UK’s departure from the EU has weakened immigration control and disrupted deportation agreements.
As discussions surrounding Brexit continue to evolve, clarity on the government’s stance remains crucial for both political stability and public confidence.
This incident underscores the complexities and ongoing challenges associated with Brexit, particularly as the UK navigates its post-EU identity.
