Is the UK trying to renegotiate Brexit? | BBC News

Summary

The discussion focused on Andy Burnham’s call for an “honest discussion” about potentially restoring free movement between the UK and EU. In an interview with The Sunday Times political editor Ben Riley-Smith, Burnham argued that migration under free movement had often been temporary and circular, whereas more recent migration has tended to be permanent. He also cited his father’s experience working in Germany. Burnham did not rule out free movement, though he ruled out adopting the euro or rejoining Schengen.

The comments mark a significant shift from Labour’s manifesto pledge against restoring free movement and from Burnham’s earlier calls not to reopen Brexit arguments. The panel discussed whether he is testing ideas for a future election manifesto or signalling a deeper plan to move the UK closer to the EU. Burnham said a referendum would be needed to rejoin the EU, but gave no clear answer on whether one would be needed to join the single market or customs union.

The move could appeal to voters who favour closer EU ties. Riley-Smith cited polling suggesting strong support for rejoining among Labour, Liberal Democrat and Green voters. But it also risks reopening a deeply divisive debate, unsettling Labour MPs in pro-Brexit constituencies and giving Reform UK an opportunity to portray Labour as betraying the referendum result. The panel noted that some voters may support closer ties in principle but not want Brexit to dominate politics again.

Opposition reactions were divided. Liberal Democrat Daisy Cooper supported closer ties, including the single market and customs union. Jeremy Hunt and Robert Jenrick criticised the prospect of free movement, raising concerns about jobs, wages, public services and immigration control. Hunt also argued that leaving the EU gave the UK greater freedom in some areas.

Any change would depend on what the EU was willing to offer, not just what the UK wanted. The panel highlighted the practical trade-offs: joining the customs union could affect the UK’s post-Brexit trade deals, while rejoining the single market would mean accepting its rules and free movement. They also discussed the EU’s entry-exit system, which requires biometric checks, as a possible subject for UK-EU talks, while noting that the EU may demand something in return for any special arrangement.

The programme also discussed a possible meeting between Burnham and Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood over immigration reforms. Riley-Smith said he had heard Burnham might seek some changes, potentially including an exemption for care workers, though he could not confirm this publicly. Mahmood’s proposals reportedly include lengthening the period before migrants can obtain indefinite leave to remain, with retrospective changes a particular source of tension among Labour MPs.

Riley-Smith said Burnham had consistently sought to speak in his own voice and trust his instincts. The panel saw that approach as a source of political connection, but noted that it can also create risks when a politician introduces a contentious issue without a settled proposal.

The timing—just before the budget—could be awkward for the government if the debate distracts from its economic message. The panel briefly contrasted this year’s quieter budget build-up with the previous year’s chaotic briefings and leaks.

Presenters and contributors

• Presenters: Laura, Paddy and Joe Pike
• Guest: Ben Riley-Smith, political editor of The Sunday Times
• Other contributors featured in clips: Angela Rayner, Jeremy Hunt, Daisy Cooper and Robert Jenrick