By Salma El-Sakka
British officials have begun discussions with the European Union on a long-term relationship that could include a return to free movement, Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said, emphasizing that the British public will have the final say on any agreement.
Focus on November Summit
Reynolds told BBC Radio 4's Today programme that the immediate focus is the EU summit in November, which aims to seal a deal easing trading restrictions and establishing a youth mobility scheme. He said the changes announced at the summit, including a food and drink agreement and cooperation on emissions trading, would make a significant difference.
Prime Minister Seeks Stable Relationship
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has made clear he wants a long-term and stable relationship with the bloc. Reynolds said Burnham will set out future options after the summit and be frank with the British people about the trade-offs involved. The prime minister has indicated that staying out of free movement would no longer be a red line in talks with the EU.
No Decision Without Public Consent
Reynolds stressed that no decision on the next stage would be made without voters being given a say, though he did not specify whether this would be through a general election or a referendum. "The British people are the people who will decide this. They're the boss on this," he said.
Backbenchers and Critics Urge Caution
Labour MP Melanie Onn warned against reopening the divisive debates that followed the Brexit referendum, saying the scars have not healed for many people. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage called it "very, very poor" to begin discussing freedom of movement, arguing the prime minister has no mandate to reopen the issue.
Burnham Outlines Position on Single Market
In an interview with the Sunday Times, Burnham said rejoining the single market and accepting free movement could be done without another referendum if Labour included it in its manifesto. He added that fully rejoining the EU would require an in-out poll. Burnham argued that the nature of migration has changed since the Brexit vote and called for an honest discussion about the challenges and benefits of free movement.
