Prime Minister Andy Burnham has said Britain should hold an “honest discussion” about potentially restoring freedom of movement with the European Union, as the Government considers the UK’s long-term relationship with Brussels.
In an interview with The Sunday Times reported on 25 October 2026, Burnham indicated that excluding free movement would not necessarily be a permanent red line in future negotiations. He acknowledged the challenges associated with the pre-Brexit system while arguing that migration patterns had changed.
What Burnham said
Burnham suggested that some European migration before Brexit involved people coming to Britain temporarily and later returning home. He called for an evidence-based debate about the economic and migration consequences of different arrangements with the EU. He also pointed to the potential benefits for British citizens who wish to live and work in Europe.
The Prime Minister has said he cannot envisage recommending that Britain join the euro or the Schengen border-free area. The UK–EU summit is scheduled for 20 November 2026.
Cabinet support and opposition criticism
Housing Secretary Angela Rayner backed an open discussion on Sunday, arguing that the Government should assess potential agreements pragmatically. She stressed that Burnham was not proposing an immediate return to the arrangements in place before the 2016 referendum.
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch criticised the prospect of renewed free movement, arguing that it would undermine the border controls sought by Brexit voters. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage described Burnham’s comments as a betrayal of Brexit. These are political responses to the Prime Minister’s remarks, not findings about the effects of a future agreement.
No change to current policy
Labour’s 2024 election manifesto ruled out restoring freedom of movement, single market membership or a customs union during the current Parliament. Burnham has said the Government will honour those commitments. No agreement to restore free movement has been reached, no legislation has been introduced and no implementation date has been announced.
Any fundamental change to the UK’s long-term relationship with the EU would require further political decisions and negotiations with European partners. The Prime Minister’s remarks signal openness to discussing future options rather than a confirmed policy reversal.
Sources: The Sunday Times interview (25 October 2026); Sky News report; ITV/PA reporting on political responses.