By Islam El-Sakka
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has stated that he would like to see the United Kingdom rejoin the European Union during his lifetime, marking the first time he has expressed this view in his capacity as Prime Minister.
Views on Brexit and Immigration
Speaking on ITV's Good Morning Britain, Burnham suggested that Brexit has not delivered the outcomes promised at the time. He specifically noted that the current arrangement has weakened the economy and failed to manage immigration effectively. He argued that the current system has resulted in weaker controls, linking the small boats crisis to the inability to return people in the same manner as before.
Commitment to Current Red Lines
Despite his personal views, the Prime Minister clarified that he is not proposing any changes within the current Parliament. He emphasized that he will respect the Labour Party's existing red lines, which include no return to freedom of movement, the single market, or the customs union for the duration of this term. Burnham maintained that the British public must remain the ultimate decision-makers regarding the country's future.
Future Election Manifesto Potential
While ruling out immediate changes, Burnham signaled that a return to freedom of movement could potentially be included in Labour's next election manifesto. He also addressed speculation regarding an early general election, stating that he does not intend to call one in the near future.
