Burnham leaves door open to referendum on EU free movement
UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has left the door open to a potential referendum on restoring freedom of movement with the European Union. While he ruled out immediate changes, he emphasized the need for a national conversation on the UK's future relationship with Brussels.
Why it matters
This signals a potential shift in post-Brexit policy, reflecting ongoing political debate regarding the UK's economic and social ties to the EU.
Image source, Reuters By Jack Fenwick , Political correspondent and Becky Morton , Political reporter Published 26 October 2026, 12:16 GMT Updated 40 minutes ago The prime minister has left the door open to a potential referendum on freedom of movement with the European Union.
Asked by broadcasters if he could introduce free movement without a public vote Andy Burnham said "no", but sources told the BBC no decision on that has been made.
The PM added that he would "never move ahead of the British public when it comes to Brexit".
Burnham has ruled out major changes to the UK's relationship with the EU before the next general election but says he wants start a conversation about potential options, with these expected to be set out around the time of the EU summit next month.
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