Key facts
- UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham wants to discuss reintroducing free movement with the EU.
- Burnham suggested migration patterns have changed since Brexit.
- He will meet EU chiefs on November 20.
- Nigel Farage criticized Burnham's stance as a betrayal of Brexit voters.
- Chris Philp said a return to free movement would mean "handing back control of our borders."
UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has called for an "honest discussion" with the British public regarding the potential reintroduction of free movement with the European Union. In an interview with the Sunday Times, Burnham suggested that migration dynamics have evolved since the UK's departure from the bloc, and that a revised relationship could encompass rejoining the single market or customs union.
Burnham is set to meet with EU leaders in Brussels on November 20, where he plans to outline various options for the UK's future relationship with the bloc. However, he has ruled out joining the Schengen Area or adopting the euro. His comments have drawn criticism from Nigel Farage, who described them as a "total betrayal" of Brexit voters, and from Conservative shadow home secretary Chris Philp, who argued that such a move would cede control over borders and allow uncontrolled migration.