By Islam El-Sakka
Andy Burnham has denied proposing a return to free movement in talks between the United Kingdom and the European Union, stating that any decision on the future relationship will be led by the will of the British people.
Burnham calls for honest discussion on immigration changes
In an interview with ITV, the Labour mayor said he wanted an “honest discussion” about how leaving the EU had affected migration. He argued that short-term migration from Europe had been replaced by long-term settlement in larger numbers, a shift he described as the “Boriswave.” Burnham insisted he had not proposed restoring freedom of movement.
Prime minister outlines EU summit priorities
The prime minister said the EU summit in November would finalize agreements on food and drink, emissions trading, and a youth mobility scheme. Discussions would then move toward a long-term stable deal with all options on the table. A draft text has been circulated among the 27 EU members, indicating a final deal is close. The Guardian reported that UK ministers were prepared to spend up to £450 million a year to give EU students discounted university fees if Brussels granted the UK access to its Made in Europe industrial programme.
Home secretary and immigration minister emphasize manifesto commitments
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said she would abide by Labour’s manifesto, which rules out free movement, and confirmed she had discussed the issue with Burnham. She noted a loss of control over migration post-Brexit and highlighted the impact of losing access to EU-wide databases. Immigration Minister Anna Turley said her priority was getting more young British people into jobs and fixing the immigration system, including stopping illegal small-boat crossings and improving removals.
